Description
These No-Bake Chocolate Mousse Bars are the ultimate decadent dessert. With a smooth, creamy chocolate mousse layer atop a crunchy base, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and absolutely irresistible, they’re the dessert your guests will rave about!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate wafer crumbs for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Mousse Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk (or more for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon gelatin (optional, for extra firmness)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (for garnish)
- Shaved chocolate or chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square baking pan (or similar-sized pan) to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly. Place the pan in the fridge to chill while you make the mousse layer. - Make the Chocolate Mousse:
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate (or chocolate chips) with 1/4 cup of milk, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the cooled chocolate mixture into the whipped cream until smooth and well combined. For added stability, you can dissolve gelatin in warm water and mix it into the mousse. - Assemble the Bars:
Once the mousse mixture is ready, spread it evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing it into an even layer. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set. - Serve:
Before serving, top the mousse bars with whipped cream and garnish with shaved chocolate or chocolate chips, if desired. Slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- If you want a richer crust, substitute the graham crackers with chocolate wafers for an extra chocolatey base.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate.
- The mousse needs to chill for a few hours, so plan ahead when making these bars.
- You can also add a layer of caramel or fruit jam for a different flavor twist!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg