Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate mousse is a timeless dessert known for its creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor. The Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cups offer the perfect balance of rich chocolate and light, airy whipped cream, making each spoonful feel like a luxurious experience. They are easy to prepare, require only a few ingredients, and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop and making them an ideal choice for entertaining. With their individual portions, these mousse cups also have an elegant, personal touch that makes them perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

8 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate (about 70% cocoa), chopped
1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
2 tablespoons of chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

Melt the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped chocolate over a double boiler (a bowl set over a pot of simmering water) or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly to room temperature.
Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
Combine the chocolate and whipped cream: Once the melted chocolate has cooled slightly (but is still pourable), fold it into the whipped cream. Do this gently to preserve the lightness of the whipped cream. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Assemble the mousse cups: Spoon the mousse into small cups or glasses, filling each one almost to the top. Smooth the tops with a spoon or spatula.
Chill the mousse: Refrigerate the mousse cups for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mousse is firm and set. You can also chill them overnight for the best texture.
Garnish and serve: Just before serving, garnish the mousse with chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or any other topping of your choice. Serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1-2 hours (or overnight)
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes (or overnight)

Variations

Flavored mousse: Add a splash of flavored liqueur such as Baileys, Grand Marnier, or Kahlúa to the mousse for an extra layer of flavor.
White chocolate mousse: Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a different, sweeter variation. You can also add a small amount of lemon zest or orange zest to complement the sweetness.
Fruit toppings: Top the mousse with fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a burst of freshness.
Nutty twist: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the mousse cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the cups with plastic wrap or a lid to avoid any odors from affecting the mousse.
Reheating: Chocolate mousse is best served chilled, and it should not be reheated. If the mousse becomes too firm after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before serving.

FAQs

Can I make chocolate mousse without whipping cream?

Whipping cream is essential to creating the smooth, airy texture of chocolate mousse. However, if you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with whipped coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping for a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that the mousse will be sweeter and less intense in flavor compared to using dark chocolate. If you like a sweeter mousse, milk chocolate is a great choice.

Can I make the mousse ahead of time?

Yes, chocolate mousse is perfect for make-ahead desserts. In fact, it benefits from chilling for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to develop and the texture to set.

Can I freeze chocolate mousse?

Chocolate mousse is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, spoon the mousse into airtight containers and allow it to thaw in the fridge before serving. The texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.

Can I add coffee flavor to the mousse?

Yes, adding a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the melted chocolate will give the mousse a wonderful coffee flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.

How do I prevent the mousse from being too runny?

Make sure the whipping cream is chilled before whipping it, as this will help it hold its shape. Also, be careful not to overheat the chocolate when melting it, as overheating can cause it to seize and affect the mousse texture.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the mousse?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix of different types of chocolate. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness to your preference, as milk chocolate will be sweeter than dark chocolate.

How long will the mousse last in the fridge?

The mousse will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first two days for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer to whip the cream and combine the ingredients. Just make sure to whip the cream until stiff peaks form for the best texture.

Conclusion

Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cups are the perfect indulgence for any chocolate lover. With their rich, smooth texture and deep chocolate flavor, these individual servings are an elegant and delicious treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party, a special celebration, or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these mousse cups are sure to impress. Easy to make, customizable, and absolutely irresistible, this dessert will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.