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Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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