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Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse Recipe

4.5 from 91 reviews

Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse is a rich and velvety dessert that combines melted dark chocolate, a smooth egg custard, and whipped cream to create a light yet indulgent treat. Perfectly balanced with a touch of vanilla and a hint of salt, this decadent mousse is elegantly simple to prepare and ideal for any special occasion or a delightful everyday dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Base

  • 6 oz high-quality dark chocolate (semi-sweet or bittersweet, chopped)

Egg Custard

  • 2 large egg yolks (room temperature)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Whipped Cream

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes

  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Fresh berries
  • Cocoa powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chocolate Base: Melt the chopped dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely smooth. Set it aside to cool slightly, allowing it to thicken but remain pourable.
  2. Create the Egg Custard: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt until the mixture is pale and thick. Place this bowl over a simmering double boiler and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes warm and custard-like, ensuring the eggs cook gently without scrambling.
  3. Combine and Cool: Gradually whisk the warm egg custard into the melted chocolate, stirring constantly to create a smooth, homogeneous mixture. Allow the combined mixture to cool for 10 minutes at room temperature to prevent the whipped cream from melting when folded in.
  4. Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Take care not to overwhip, as it should maintain a light, airy texture that will integrate smoothly into the chocolate mixture.
  5. Fold and Finish: Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining cream in two additions. Use a spatula and fold delicately to maintain the mousse’s light, fluffy texture without deflating it.
  6. Chill to Perfection: Divide the mousse evenly into individual serving glasses or ramekins. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though for best results, chill overnight. This chilling step allows the mousse to set fully and develop its characteristic creamy texture.

Notes

  • Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
  • Ensure egg yolks are room temperature for smoother custard.
  • Whip cream to soft peaks to avoid overbeating, which can cause grainy texture.
  • Chilling the mousse overnight improves texture and flavor melding.
  • Optional garnishes like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a dusting of cocoa powder add visual appeal and complementary flavors.
  • This recipe contains raw egg yolks gently cooked in a double boiler; ensure eggs are fresh and from a trusted source.

Keywords: chocolate mousse, creamy dessert, classic chocolate dessert, dark chocolate mousse, elegant mousse recipe