Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Recipe

Introduction

This Chocolate Peppermint Mousse is a light, airy dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint flavor. It’s a festive treat that’s simple to make and sure to impress your guests during the holidays or any special occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (optional, for garnish)
• Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Melt over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Allow to cool slightly, then stir in the peppermint extract.
2. Step 2: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
4. Step 4: Whisk the egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale. Gradually mix in the melted chocolate mixture until well combined. Gently fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until no streaks remain. Finally, fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
5. Step 5: Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
6. Step 6: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, chocolate shavings, or fresh mint leaves as desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality chocolate for a richer flavor and smoother texture.
• For a boozy twist, add a tablespoon of peppermint schnapps to the melted chocolate mixture.
• Ensure the bowls and beaters for egg whites are completely clean and dry to achieve maximum volume.
• Substitute the peppermint extract with vanilla or orange extract for different flavor profiles.

Storage

Store the mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve after storage, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Garnishes are best added just before serving to maintain their texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Yes, the mousse can be prepared and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.

Is it safe to use raw eggs in this recipe?

This recipe uses raw eggs, so be sure to use the freshest, highest-quality eggs, or consider using pasteurized eggs for added safety.

Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 114 reviews

This decadent Chocolate Peppermint Mousse combines rich semi-sweet chocolate with refreshing peppermint extract, creating a light and airy dessert perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. The mousse is delicately whipped with egg whites and cream to achieve a smooth, fluffy texture, and can be garnished with festive touches like crushed peppermint candies, chocolate shavings, and fresh mint leaves.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Mousse:

• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Garnish (Optional):

• Whipped cream
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
• Chocolate shavings
• Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and unsalted butter. Melt over a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before proceeding. Stir in the peppermint extract once the chocolate mixture is cool.
2. Whip the Egg Whites: Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks develop, ensuring a glossy, firm texture.
3. Prepare the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks are just achieved. Be careful not to overwhip to prevent the cream from becoming too stiff or turning into butter.
4. Combine Ingredients: Whisk the egg yolks in another bowl until pale and slightly thickened. Gradually mix in the melted chocolate mixture until fully combined. Gently fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it, then delicately fold in the remaining egg whites until no streaks remain. Finally, fold the whipped cream into the mixture until completely incorporated, creating a light and airy mousse.
5. Chill the Mousse: Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set properly and develop its full flavor and texture.
6. Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish the mousse with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, chocolate shavings, and fresh mint leaves for a festive and flavorful finish.

Notes

• Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whipped.
• Be gentle when folding to maintain the mousse’s airy texture.
• Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for best flavor.
• Chill time is crucial for proper setting; do not skip refrigeration.
• For a non-alcoholic version, peppermint extract is preferred over peppermint schnapps.

Keywords: Chocolate mousse, peppermint mousse, holiday dessert, no-bake dessert, light mousse, creamy chocolate dessert