Chocolate Mousse Airy Dessert (Printable)

Rich mousse combines chocolate and whipped cream for a velvety, airy dessert. French-inspired and decadent.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chocolate Mixture

01 - 5.3 oz bittersweet or dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
02 - 1 oz unsalted butter, cut into pieces
03 - 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee or espresso (optional)

→ Egg Mixture

04 - 3 large eggs, separated
05 - 1.8 oz granulated sugar
06 - 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar or a squeeze of lemon juice

→ Whipped Cream

07 - 6.8 fl oz heavy cream (chilled)
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - Pinch of salt

# Method:

01 - Combine chopped chocolate and unsalted butter in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water. Stir continuously until smooth and fully melted. Incorporate brewed coffee or espresso if desired, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks with half of the granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened. Blend in the cooled chocolate mixture until completely combined.
03 - In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar or lemon juice using a mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks are reached.
04 - Using an electric mixer or whisk, whip chilled heavy cream with vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
05 - Carefully fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten. Gently fold in the remaining egg whites until just incorporated, maintaining volume.
06 - Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, using delicate strokes to avoid deflating the mousse.
07 - Spoon the completed mixture into individual glasses or ramekins. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
08 - Present chilled mousse with optional garnishes such as additional whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses simple pantry staples
  • Ready in about twenty minutes prep time
  • Intensely chocolatey with a cloudlike finish
  • No need for fancy equipment only basic bowls and a whisk
  • Great make ahead dessert chills perfectly
02 -
  • A showstopping make ahead dessert for easy entertaining
  • High in antioxidants especially when using dark chocolate
  • Can be made with or without coffee for customization
  • Gluten free for those with sensitivities
03 -
  • Whip your egg whites and cream just to soft or stiff peaks as directed but do not overdo it Overbeaten eggs or cream can deflate the mousse and make it grainy
  • Always use chocolate you would happily eat on its own The quality comes through in every spoonful If you plan ahead chill your mixing bowls and beaters in the freezer for ten minutes before whipping cream for the airiest results

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