If you have a sweet tooth and love rich, creamy desserts, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Chocolate Mousse Pie (No-Bake) Recipe. It’s the perfect indulgence that combines the silky smoothness of chocolate mousse with the crunch of a graham cracker crust, and it comes together without any oven time. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this pie is a decadent delight that’s surprisingly simple to make and endlessly satisfying to devour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate Mousse Pie (No-Bake) Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward, quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the heavy cream adds luscious creaminess, the chocolate chips provide that rich, intense chocolate flavor, and the graham cracker crust brings a buttery crunch that complements every spoonful.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Divided use throughout the recipe for mousse, ganache, and whipped topping, ensuring a velvety texture.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: Melts smoothly to infuse the mousse base with deep chocolate flavor.
- 1 9-inch graham cracker crust: The sturdy, sweet base that adds perfect crunch and balances the creamy mousse.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and cream with a warm, aromatic note.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to elevate and round out the flavors.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream: Used specifically for the ganache layer, creating a rich, glossy topping inside the crust.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips: Combined with cream for the ganache, delivering a smooth, shiny chocolate layer.
- 1 cup cold heavy cream: Whipped with cocoa powder and sugar for the chocolate whipped cream topping.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder: Adds an intense chocolate punch to the whipped cream topping without overpowering sweetness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream topping for a balanced finish.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle fragrance that ties the whipped cream flavor together beautifully.
- Optional shaved chocolate: For an elegant garnish that adds texture and extra chocolate allure.
How to Make Chocolate Mousse Pie (No-Bake) Recipe
Step 1: Start the Chocolate Mousse
Begin by warming 1/2 cup of heavy cream with 1 cup of chocolate chips in the microwave in 15-second bursts, stirring each time until it’s smoothly melted and warm but not boiling. This rich chocolate mixture forms the base of your mousse and needs to cool to room temperature in the fridge for about 30 minutes, so be patient and give it a stir every now and then.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Next, prepare the ganache by heating 1/3 cup of heavy cream with 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, again in short microwave increments until melted and smooth. Pour this glossy ganache into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly to create a luscious chocolate layer. Pop the crust into the refrigerator or freezer to set while you move on.
Step 3: Finish the Chocolate Mousse
Using the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cold heavy cream, whisk together with the vanilla extract and salt until soft peaks form — meaning, the cream holds its shape but slightly curls at the tip. Gently fold in the cooled melted chocolate mixture and continue whipping until stiff peaks develop, making the mousse fluffy and stable. Spread this airy mousse evenly over the chilled ganache layer in the crust, then chill the entire pie for about 2 hours to firm up.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Whipped Cream
Right before serving, whip the last cup of heavy cream with cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla until medium peaks form. This chocolate whipped cream topping adds a light, cocoa-kissed finish that elevates the pie to pure dessert bliss. Spoon or pipe it generously atop the mousse and add optional shaved chocolate or mini chocolate chips for a show-stopping presentation.
How to Serve Chocolate Mousse Pie (No-Bake) Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can turn this homemade treat into a decadent masterpiece. Sprinkle shaved chocolate or mini chocolate chips on top, or add fresh raspberries for a pop of color and a hint of tartness that beautifully contrasts the creamy sweetness.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a light, fresh side such as a mixed berry salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the cold, fruity flavors and the rich chocolate elevates the entire dessert experience without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive party dessert, serve individual slices on pretty plates, each topped with a dollop of chocolate whipped cream and a single ripe strawberry. You can also arrange mini mousse pies in clear glasses layered with crushed graham crackers and whipped cream for a fun, no-cut option that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, this Chocolate Mousse Pie (No-Bake) Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors and to keep that creamy texture just right.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this pie freezes well for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh whipped cream toppings before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
This dessert is delicious served chilled and does not require reheating. In fact, warming it up would cause the mousse to lose its light, airy texture. Always serve your chocolate mousse pie cold from the fridge for optimum flavor and mouthfeel.
FAQs
Can I use a different crust for this pie?
Absolutely! While a graham cracker crust is classic, you can use chocolate cookie crusts or even make your own crust with crushed cookies and melted butter. Just be sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the ganache and mousse layers.
Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, with some substitutions. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free chocolate that melts well. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly but will still be delicious.
How long does it take for the mousse to set properly?
The mousse needs at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to become firm and hold its shape nicely. For the best texture, try to chill it overnight if you can—it just gets better with time!
Can I prepare this pie in advance?
Definitely! This Chocolate Mousse Pie (No-Bake) Recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it up to 2 days before serving and keep it refrigerated, which actually helps the flavors meld together wonderfully.
What’s the best way to slice and serve the pie?
Use a sharp, clean knife and warm it briefly under hot water before slicing to get smooth, clean cuts. Wipe the knife between slices for the neatest presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Mousse Pie (No-Bake) Recipe is one of those desserts that makes you feel like a culinary rock star without the stress of baking. Rich, creamy, and so easy to prepare, it’s a guaranteed hit that’s sure to brighten any occasion or cozy night in. Go ahead, dive in and share the chocolatey joy with those you love!
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Chocolate Mousse Pie (No-Bake) Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
Description
This no-bake Chocolate Mousse Pie combines silky chocolate ganache with airy chocolate mousse, all layered in a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with rich chocolate whipped cream and optional shaved chocolate, it’s the perfect elegant dessert for any occasion, ready in under 3 hours with chilling time included.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Mousse:
- 2 cups heavy cream, divided
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1 9-inch graham cracker crust
For the Chocolate Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Shaved chocolate or mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Start the Chocolate Mousse: Warm 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chocolate chips in the microwave in 15-second increments, stirring between each until melted and warm but not boiling, about 45 seconds. Place this mixture in the refrigerator to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache: Warm 1/3 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chocolate chips in 15-second increments, stirring until melted. Pour this ganache into the graham cracker crust and spread it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator or freezer to set.
- Finish the Chocolate Mousse: Whip the remaining 1 1/2 cups cold heavy cream with vanilla extract and salt to medium peaks—when peaks hold shape but tips curl down. Gently add the cooled melted chocolate mixture from step one, then whip to stiff peaks, where peaks hold shape firmly.
- Assemble the Pie: Spoon the chocolate mousse mixture over the set ganache layer in the crust and spread evenly. Chill the pie for about 2 hours until firm.
- Make the Chocolate Whipped Cream Topping: Just before serving, whip 1 cup cold heavy cream with cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until medium peaks form. Spoon or pipe this whipped cream topping over the mousse layer. Garnish with shaved chocolate or mini chocolate chips if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the richest flavor.
- Make sure the melted chocolate mixture cools fully before folding into the whipped cream to prevent deflating.
- Chilling times are important to set layers properly and achieve the right texture.
- For best results, chill the pie overnight if possible.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American

