Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Mint Mousse offers the perfect combination of smooth, rich chocolate and the refreshing taste of mint. It’s a light and airy dessert that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. The mousse is simple to make and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. The mint flavor adds a cool, refreshing note that cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a perfectly balanced dessert. Whether you’re serving it in individual cups, as a layered dessert, or with a dollop of whipped cream on top, this chocolate mint mousse is sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
8 oz dark chocolate (preferably 60-70% cocoa), chopped
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (or more to taste)
Pinch of salt
Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chocolate:

Melt the Chocolate:
Place the chopped dark chocolate and cocoa powder in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Mousse:

Whip the Cream:
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip; the cream should be light and fluffy, not stiff.
Combine Chocolate and Cream:
Once the chocolate mixture has cooled to room temperature, gently fold it into the whipped cream. Add the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue folding until the mousse is smooth and fully combined. Taste and adjust the mint flavor if necessary by adding more peppermint extract.
Chill the Mousse:
Spoon the mousse into individual serving dishes or one large serving bowl. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mousse is firm and set.

Serve:

Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves and chocolate shavings for an elegant touch. You can also top the mousse with whipped cream, extra grated chocolate, or even crushed mint cookies for added texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 servings (depending on portion size)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Chip Mint Mousse: Add mini chocolate chips to the mousse before chilling for added texture and extra chocolatey flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. You may also need to adjust the sweetness slightly.
Minty Whipped Cream Topping: For an extra minty kick, top the mousse with whipped cream flavored with a touch of peppermint extract.
Layered Mousse: Layer the chocolate mint mousse with chocolate ganache or crushed cookies in a trifle bowl for a show-stopping dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Chocolate Mint Mousse can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled, and the mousse texture will remain creamy and fluffy. Do not freeze the mousse, as the texture will change once thawed.

FAQs

Can I make the mousse ahead of time?

Yes! Chocolate Mint Mousse is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it benefits from sitting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Prepare it the day before serving for an easy, stress-free dessert.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter mousse. However, the mousse will be less rich, and the mint flavor will stand out more. Dark chocolate gives the mousse a deeper, more complex flavor that pairs wonderfully with mint.

Can I use fresh mint leaves in the mousse?

Fresh mint leaves are not typically used directly in the mousse because they don’t dissolve well in the creamy texture. Instead, peppermint extract is added for that minty flavor. However, you can use fresh mint leaves as a garnish or steep fresh mint in the cream to infuse it with mint flavor before whipping it.

How can I make the mousse more minty?

If you like a stronger mint flavor, feel free to add more peppermint extract, a few drops at a time, until you reach your desired level of mintiness. Just be careful not to overdo it, as the flavor can become overpowering.

How do I know when the mousse is ready?

The mousse is ready when it is firm to the touch and holds its shape. After chilling for at least 2 hours, it should have a smooth, airy texture that holds its form when spooned into cups.

Can I freeze the mousse?

It’s not recommended to freeze the mousse, as it can change the texture and become grainy once thawed. The mousse is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making it.

Conclusion

Chocolate Mint Mousse is a rich and refreshing dessert that combines the best of chocolate and mint in a creamy, smooth, and indulgent treat. With its easy preparation and decadent flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to something special. The combination of dark chocolate and mint creates a satisfying and balanced flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. Make it today for an irresistible dessert that’s sure to impress!