Name: Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate baking bar; 1 tsp cocoa powder, Dutch processed; 60 ml (1/4 c) water; 1/2 tsp vanilla; 237 ml (1 c) heavy cream; 12 g (1 Tbs) granulated sugar; Pinch of table salt or 1/8 tsp kosher salt; Whipped cream; Chocolate shavings; Caramel (optional)

There’s just something magical about Chocolate Mousse—a dessert so silky, so airy, and so deeply chocolatey that every spoonful feels both indulgent and uplifting. This classic French treat is the ultimate fix for your sweet tooth, and this version delivers all that dreamy decadence with zero eggs and just a handful of pantry staples. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply elevating an average Tuesday, Chocolate Mousse never disappoints. It’s a knockout for chocolate lovers young and old!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chocolate Mousse recipe is how a few simple, quality ingredients come together for a dessert that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. Each component plays a vital role in creating that luscious texture and deep flavor we crave. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Semi-sweet chocolate baking bar (4 oz): This is the star of the show, responsible for the smooth, rich base and pronounced chocolate taste. Chop it up before melting for even results.
Dutch-processed cocoa powder (1 tsp): Adds depth and enhances the chocolate flavor for a multi-layered taste experience.
Water (60 ml / 1/4 cup): Used to bloom the cocoa powder, helping marry flavors and create an ultra-silky mixture.
Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Just a splash goes a long way to round out the chocolate with subtle aromatic sweetness.
Heavy cream (237 ml / 1 cup): Whipped cream gives the mousse its irresistible lightness and creamy texture—it’s what makes the mousse so fluffy!
Granulated sugar (12 g / 1 Tbsp): Perfectly sweetens the mousse without overpowering the chocolate.
Pinch of salt (or 1/8 tsp kosher salt): Salt brings out the best in chocolate—never underestimate how much it enhances flavors.
Garnishes (whipped cream, chocolate shavings, caramel, optional): For extra decadence and beautiful presentation, top your mousse just before serving.

How to Make Chocolate Mousse

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Begin by roughly chopping your semi-sweet chocolate bar. Place the chopped chocolate in a medium bowl and melt it in the microwave, doing it in 20 to 30 second bursts. Make sure to stir between each interval so the chocolate melts smoothly and doesn’t scorch. Once fully melted and glossy, set it aside—the aroma of warm chocolate is your first reward!

Step 2: Bloom the Cocoa Powder

Boil your water and pour it over the Dutch-processed cocoa powder in a separate bowl. Whisk the mixture vigorously. This process releases all those rich cocoa flavors by hydrating the powder, ensuring your mousse is robust and never gritty.

Step 3: Combine Chocolate and Cocoa Mixture

Pour the cocoa-water blend into your melted chocolate. Whisk everything together until smooth and fully blended. Add the vanilla extract at this stage, giving the mixture another good whisk. Your chocolate base should be shiny and smoothly irresistible.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, add heavy cream, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whip the mixture until soft peaks form—this is when the cream holds a peak that softly folds over without staying too stiff. It’s key for that signature mousse fluffiness!

Step 5: Fold Everything Together

Spoon out a quarter of your whipped cream and stir it rapidly into your chocolate mixture. This lightens the chocolate and makes it easier to gently fold the rest. Add the remaining whipped cream in two more additions, using a spatula to carefully lift and fold so you keep that fabulous airy texture. Take your time—gentle folding is your friend here.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Pour the Chocolate Mousse into individual cups or glasses for serving. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours, or until it’s firm, set, and ready to be enjoyed. The chilling stage lets flavors meld and creates that melt-in-your-mouth, cloudlike consistency we love in Chocolate Mousse!

How to Serve Chocolate Mousse

Garnishes

Garnishing your Chocolate Mousse is the fun part! Top each cup with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a shower of chocolate shavings, or even a swirl of caramel for extra beauty and flavor. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries offer a lovely contrast and a burst of freshness too. Don’t be afraid to get creative—each garnish adds a touch of flair.

Side Dishes

While Chocolate Mousse can steal the show on its own, it pairs wonderfully with delicate accompaniments. Serve with crisp shortbread cookies for dipping, or a handful of fresh fruit (think tart oranges or sweet cherries) on the side. Coffee or espresso makes the perfect beverage companion to complement the rich, velvety mousse.

Creative Ways to Present

Tired of basic cups? Spoon your mousse into tiny jars, espresso cups, or even wine glasses for a chic touch. For parties, try piping the mousse into mini tart shells or layering it with crumbled cookies for a parfait effect. Edible flowers or a drizzle of fruit coulis can instantly elevate the look—make your Chocolate Mousse as eye-catching as it is delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chocolate Mousse stores like a dream. Simply cover your cups or transfer leftovers into an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. The texture remains perfectly creamy, and some find the chocolate flavor deepens even more over time. Just don’t forget to hide a serving for yourself before it disappears!

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your Chocolate Mousse, spoon portions into freezer-safe containers. Seal tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw gently overnight in the fridge before serving. The mousse may take on a slightly firmer texture, but a few minutes at room temperature will bring back creamy, dreamy deliciousness.

Reheating

Chocolate Mousse is best enjoyed chilled, but if it’s a bit too firm straight from the fridge (especially if previously frozen), you can let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. There’s no need to actually heat it—just a gentle rest will restore that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth softness.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for this mousse?

Yes, you can swap semi-sweet chocolate for milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter, creamier mousse. Just remember to decrease the added sugar slightly, as milk chocolate is naturally sweeter. The flavor will be milder but still delicious!

Is there a way to make this Chocolate Mousse dairy-free?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, use a high-quality dairy-free chocolate and swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream. Whip the coconut cream until fluffy and proceed with the recipe as usual. The mousse will have subtle coconut notes alongside the chocolate.

How do I know when I’ve whipped the cream enough for the mousse?

Look for soft peaks—that’s when the cream holds its shape but folds gently at the tip when you lift the beaters. Over-whipping can cause the cream to turn grainy, so stop as soon as you reach soft peaks for the perfect light texture in your Chocolate Mousse.

Can this mousse be made ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! Chocolate Mousse is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare up to two days in advance, portion it into individual cups, cover, and refrigerate. Add your garnishes just before serving to keep everything fresh and beautiful.

What if I don’t have Dutch-processed cocoa powder?

No problem! Regular unsweetened cocoa powder will still work in this recipe. The flavor might be a touch more robust or slightly acidic, but your Chocolate Mousse will still be delicious and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s effortlessly elegant and incredibly delicious, Chocolate Mousse is always the answer. With its airy texture and rich chocolate depth, it’s impossible not to fall in love. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can create something so spectacular!