Description
This easy chocolate mousse recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and silky dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with semi-sweet chocolate, whipped cream, and whipped egg whites, it offers a light yet decadent chocolate experience that sets beautifully in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
Chocolate Base
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (finely chopped, or dark chocolate)
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Eggs & Sugar
- 2 eggs (large, separated)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (divided)
Dairy
- ¼ cup heavy cream (lightly whipped for a softer, silkier mousse)
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate: Gently melt the finely chopped chocolate over a double boiler or using short bursts in the microwave, stirring until completely smooth. Stir in the espresso powder, then set the mixture aside to cool slightly until warm but not hot.
- Incorporate Egg Yolks: Whisk the egg yolks into the melted chocolate one at a time until fully combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing thoroughly.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add one tablespoon of sugar, continuing to beat until the egg whites become glossy and medium peaks form.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the lightly whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to loosen and lighten the texture.
- Combine Egg Whites with Chocolate: Fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it further. Then carefully fold in the remaining egg whites just until combined, preserving the airy texture.
- Chill the Mousse: Spoon the mousse evenly into serving dishes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mousse is set and pleasantly chilled.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish each mousse with shaved chocolate and fresh raspberries for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Make sure the melted chocolate is warm but not hot when mixing in the egg yolks to prevent cooking the eggs.
- Use fresh eggs as this recipe uses them raw; alternatively, use pasteurized eggs for safety.
- Lightly whipped cream helps achieve a smooth, silky mousse texture.
- The espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor but can be omitted if desired.
- Chilling time is crucial for the mousse to set properly and develop its texture.