Name: Easy Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips; ½ cup heavy whipping cream (for melting chocolate chips); ⅔ cup chilled heavy whipping cream (for whipping); 1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar; ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)

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Introduction

This easy chocolate mousse recipe creates a rich and creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a luxurious treat that’s both light and indulgent.

Two white ramekins are filled with smooth, thick chocolate mousse of rich brown color. Each mousse is topped with a generous dollop of fluffy white whipped cream in the center, sprinkled with small shavings of dark chocolate for texture and contrast. The ramekins rest on a pale, white marbled surface, with a pair of shiny gold spoons lying nearby on the right side. The overall setting is bright and clean, focusing attention on the creamy dessert layers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup chocolate chips (semisweet recommended)
½ cup heavy whipping cream (for melting chocolate)
⅔ cup chilled heavy whipping cream (for whipping)
1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, heat the chocolate chips and ½ cup heavy cream until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Microwave in 20-second increments, stirring well between each until fully melted. Set aside to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the chilled ⅔ cup heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Transfer the whipped cream to the refrigerator to keep chilled while the chocolate cools.
Step 3: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled melted chocolate using a rubber or silicone spatula. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream. Once fully combined, spoon the mousse into serving dishes.
Step 4: Chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. For a firmer texture, keep it colder; if you prefer it softer, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet.
Add a pinch of salt to the melted chocolate for enhanced flavor balance.
Top with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream just before serving.
If you want more mousse, double the whipping cream and chocolate quantities accordingly.

Storage

Store the chocolate mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with chocolate mousse, with a thick, airy chocolate mousse layer that looks smooth and creamy, topped by a fluffy white whipped cream layer sprinkled with small chocolate shavings. A spoon holding a scoop of the chocolate mousse with whipped cream on top is lifted out of the bowl, and a woman's hand is holding the spoon’s handle. The bowl rests on a soft cloth with gray and white stripes, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but the mousse will be sweeter and creamier. Adjust the powdered sugar to taste if needed.

How do I know when the whipped cream has stiff peaks?

Stiff peaks hold their shape firmly when you lift the whisk out of the cream without collapsing. The cream should look glossy and stand straight up without drooping.