Description
Chocolate mousse is the kind of dessert that feels fancy but comforting, rich yet light, indulgent without being heavy. This classic French-inspired dessert is known for its silky texture, deep chocolate flavor, and airy whipped consistency that melts in your mouth with every spoonful.
The mousse shown above has a smooth, cloud-like finish, perfectly whipped and served in individual cups — ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or when you want an elegant dessert without turning on the oven. What makes this recipe especially appealing is that it’s no-bake, requires simple ingredients, and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy home cooks.
Whether you’re looking for an easy chocolate dessert, a romantic dessert for two, or a crowd-pleasing sweet treat, this chocolate mousse recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa, high quality)
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1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
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2 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
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Pinch of salt
Optional Garnishes
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Chocolate shavings
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Cocoa powder
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Fresh berries
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Whipped cream
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Mint leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl. Melt it gently using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each burst. Once melted, stir in the butter (if using) until smooth. Let the chocolate cool slightly — it should be warm, not hot.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a cold mixing bowl, add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whip using a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip — the cream should be fluffy and airy, not stiff.
Step 3: Fold Everything Together
Add one-third of the whipped cream into the melted chocolate and gently stir to loosen the chocolate. Then carefully fold the remaining whipped cream in batches using a spatula. Use slow, gentle motions to keep as much air as possible.
Step 4: Chill the Mousse
Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving glasses or bowls. Smooth the tops and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set. The texture will become thick, creamy, and perfectly spoonable.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Just before serving, garnish with cocoa powder, chocolate curls, or berries. Serve chilled and enjoy the rich, velvety goodness.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Mousse
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Use high-quality chocolate — this is the star ingredient and directly affects flavor.
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Make sure the melted chocolate is not hot when folding in cream, or it may deflate.
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For extra airiness, fold gently and avoid overmixing.
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Chill thoroughly for the best texture.
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Serve in clear glasses to show off the beautiful whipped layers.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
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Milk Chocolate Mousse: Use milk chocolate for a sweeter, lighter flavor.
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White Chocolate Mousse: Replace dark chocolate with white chocolate and add lemon zest.
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Vegan Chocolate Mousse: Use coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate.
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Keto Chocolate Mousse: Sweeten with erythritol and use 85% dark chocolate.
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Espresso Chocolate Mousse: Add 1 tsp instant coffee for a mocha flavor.
Storage Instructions
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Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Not freezer-friendly — freezing affects texture.
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Perfect for make-ahead desserts.
Related Questions (High-CPM SEO Keywords)
What is the best chocolate for chocolate mousse?
The best chocolate for chocolate mousse is high-quality dark chocolate with 60–70% cocoa. It melts smoothly and provides a rich, balanced flavor without being overly sweet.
Is chocolate mousse a no-bake dessert?
Yes, chocolate mousse is a no-bake dessert, making it ideal for summer, quick entertaining, and easy dessert recipes without an oven.
How do you make chocolate mousse fluffy?
Chocolate mousse becomes fluffy by properly whipping the cream and gently folding it into the chocolate to retain air.
Can chocolate mousse be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Chocolate mousse is one of the best make-ahead desserts, as it needs chilling time and tastes even better after a few hours.
Is chocolate mousse gluten-free?
Yes, classic chocolate mousse is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
How long does homemade chocolate mousse last?
Homemade chocolate mousse lasts 2–3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
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