Description
This classic chocolate mousse is a luxurious and creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of semisweet chocolate and whipped cream. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat, this mousse features a light and airy texture achieved through a blend of whipped egg whites and cream.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 ounces semisweet chocolate (best quality)
- 3 large eggs (at room temperature, yolks and whites separated)
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream (cold)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
- ½ cup heavy cream (cold)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Place the butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Add the chocolate pieces.
- Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each session, until the chocolate is about 75% melted.
- Stir to melt the remaining chocolate with residual heat. Alternatively, melt the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl over a simmering saucepan of water.
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then whisk in the egg yolks one at a time until smooth. Set aside.
- Whip the Egg Whites:
- In a stand mixer or using an electric hand mixer, beat the egg whites on medium-high speed until foamy.
- Add the cream of tartar and beat until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add ¼ cup of sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture with a rubber spatula until well combined. Set aside.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream on medium-high speed until it begins to thicken.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until medium peaks form.
- Carefully fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, ensuring it’s fully incorporated but not overmixed.
- Chill the Mousse:
- Divide the mousse between 6 individual glasses.
- Cover and refrigerate until set, at least 2 hours.
- Prepare for Serving:
- Before serving, whip the remaining cream until it starts to thicken.
- Add the sugar and whip to medium peaks.
- Dollop the whipped cream over the mousse and garnish with chocolate shavings.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: The mousse can be made up to 1 day in advance. Cover with plastic wrap and keep chilled. Add the whipped cream topping and chocolate shavings just before serving.
- Raw Eggs: Use pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk associated with consuming raw eggs. This dessert is not recommended for pregnant women, babies, the elderly, or those with a compromised immune system.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing, Whipping, Chilling
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 135mg