Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Dark Chocolate Mousse is everything you could ask for in a dessert. It’s simple yet sophisticated, and the deep, rich flavor of dark chocolate shines through. The creamy texture melts in your mouth, providing a luxurious treat without being overly sweet. Best of all, it requires minimal ingredients and comes together in no time. Plus, it’s a versatile dessert that can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for a hassle-free dessert option!

Ingredients

8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

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

Directions

Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl.
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer (do not let it boil).
Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir the mixture until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the chocolate mixture. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
Let the chocolate mixture cool to room temperature, then place it in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes.
Once chilled, use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the chocolate mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Spoon the mousse into individual serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to set.
Before serving, you can garnish the mousse with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries for an extra touch.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Vegan Dark Chocolate Mousse: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free dark chocolate to make this mousse vegan-friendly.
Orange Zest Dark Chocolate Mousse: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the chocolate mixture for a citrus twist.
Mint Chocolate Mousse: Stir in a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing mint flavor.
Spicy Dark Chocolate Mousse: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This mousse is best served chilled, so be sure to keep it refrigerated until ready to enjoy.
There’s no need to reheat the mousse. Just give it a quick stir before serving if it has been sitting in the fridge for a while.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate, but keep in mind that the mousse will be sweeter and less rich in flavor.

Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Absolutely! This mousse can be made up to 2 days ahead of time. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated.

How can I make the mousse fluffier?

Be sure to chill the chocolate mixture for at least 30 minutes and then whip it for 2-3 minutes to achieve a light and airy texture.

Can I use a hand whisk instead of an electric mixer?

Yes, you can whisk the mousse by hand, but it will take a bit more effort to achieve the desired light and fluffy texture.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Yes, heavy cream is crucial for creating the mousse’s smooth, rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half, but the mousse will be less creamy.

Can I use a different flavor of extract in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different extracts like almond, hazelnut, or coffee to add unique flavors to your mousse.

How do I know when the mousse is ready to serve?

The mousse should be set and firm to the touch after chilling in the fridge for at least an hour. If it’s too soft, let it chill for a bit longer.

Can I freeze this mousse?

While it’s best served fresh or after a few days in the fridge, you can freeze the mousse for up to a month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Can I make this recipe without sugar?

Yes, you can omit the sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol if you prefer a sugar-free mousse.

How do I prevent the mousse from becoming too dense?

To keep the mousse light and fluffy, be careful not to overwhip it. Whip just until soft peaks form to avoid losing the airy texture.

Conclusion

Dark Chocolate Mousse is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Its velvety texture and rich chocolate flavor make it a luxurious treat that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing a special meal or indulging in a quiet night in, this mousse is sure to be a hit. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can create this indulgent dessert in no time