This Quick Chocolate Mousse is Made with Only 3 Ingredients
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INGREDIENTS
- 12 ounces/340 grams dark chocolate
- 1 cup + 1 teaspoon/250 milliliters + 1½ cups/350 milliliters heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Vanilla bean, optional
Toppings (optional):
- Chocolate flakes/shavings
- Whipped cream
INSTRUCTIONS
- Melt the dark chocolate with 250 milliliters of heavy whipping cream until completely smooth. Let it cool to room temperature.
- In a bowl, whip the remaining 350 milliliters of heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar (and vanilla bean) until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the chocolate ganache. Continue folding in the remaining whipped cream until the mousse is light and airy.
- Transfer the mousse to a large bowl or individual cups and smooth the tops. Chill for 4 hours in the fridge.
RECIPE NOTES
MY NOTES
FAQ
Can I make this quick chocolate mousse ahead of time?
Preparing the quick chocolate mousse in advance can actually enhance its flavor and texture. Simply follow the recipe and transfer the mousse to your serving dishes. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the mousse to set properly and the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, garnish as desired. Making the mousse ahead also saves time when hosting guests or preparing a special meal.
How to make this quick chocolate mousse dairy-free
You can make this recipe dairy-free. Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or a plant-based whipping cream. Ensure the dark chocolate you use is also dairy-free, as some brands contain milk. Follow the same steps as the original recipe, melting the chocolate with the dairy-free cream and whipping the remaining cream until stiff peaks form. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, creamy chocolate mousse without any dairy.
Different types of sweeteners to use in this recipes
You can use a different sweetener instead of powdered sugar in this quick chocolate mousse recipe. Options include granulated sugar, which you can grind into a fine powder, or liquid sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may slightly alter the mousse’s texture. Adjust the amount to taste, as some sweeteners are more potent than powdered sugar. This flexibility allows you to customize the sweetness to your preference while maintaining the mousse’s delicious flavor.
How many servings does this quick chocolate mousse make?
This quick chocolate mousse recipe typically makes about 4 to 6 servings, depending on portion size. If you divide the mousse into smaller individual cups, you might get up to 6 servings. For larger portions, expect around 4 servings. This flexibility allows you to adjust based on your needs, whether you’re serving a few guests or a small gathering. The recipe is easily scalable, so you can double or halve it to suit the number of servings required.
Can I add other flavors like coffee or liqueur?
You can add other flavors to this quick chocolate mousse, such as coffee or liqueur. For a coffee flavor, dissolve instant coffee or espresso powder in a small amount of hot water and mix it into the melted chocolate. For a liqueur flavor, add a tablespoon or two of your favorite liqueur, like Baileys, Grand Marnier, or Kahlúa, to the chocolate mixture. These additions will enhance the mousse with unique and delightful flavors, making it even more special.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, cover the mousse with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. The mousse will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure the container is sealed properly to maintain freshness and prevent the mousse from absorbing other odors. If you have garnishes like chocolate shavings or whipped cream, add them just before serving to keep them fresh and appealing. For best results, enjoy the mousse within this time frame for optimal texture and flavor.
What is the best way to melt the chocolate?
The best way to melt chocolate without burning it is to use a double boiler or a microwave. For a double boiler, simmer water in the bottom pan and place the chocolate in the top pan, stirring frequently until smooth. For the microwave, heat chocolate in 20-second intervals at 50% power, stirring between each interval until fully melted. Both methods prevent overheating and help achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Avoid direct heat, as it can easily cause burning.
What should I do if my mousse turns out too thick?
If your mousse turns out too thick, you can fix it by gently folding in a bit more whipped cream or a splash of milk or heavy cream. Start by adding a small amount and carefully folding it into the mousse until you achieve the desired consistency. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can deflate the mousse. If it’s too thin, let it chill in the fridge for a bit longer to firm up before serving.
How can I make sure my whipped cream forms stiff peaks?
To ensure your whipped cream forms stiff peaks, start with cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl and beaters. Begin mixing on a low speed, gradually increasing to medium-high speed until soft peaks form, then continue until stiff peaks appear. Watch closely to avoid overwhipping, which can turn the cream into butter. For extra stability, you can add a small amount of cornstarch or powdered sugar while whipping. Proper equipment and techniques will help achieve perfect, stiff peaks for your mousse.
Is it necessary to let the chocolate cool before folding in the cream?
Yes, it is necessary to let the chocolate cool to room temperature before folding in the whipped cream. If the chocolate is too warm, it can melt the whipped cream, resulting in a runny mousse. Allow the chocolate to cool until it’s just slightly warm or at room temperature before combining it with the whipped cream. This step ensures the mousse has the right texture and consistency, leading to a light, airy, and well-blended dessert.
Use this quick chocolate mousse as a cake filling or frosting
You can use this mousse as a cake filling or frosting. Its light and airy texture makes it an excellent choice for adding a rich chocolate flavor to cakes. For a filling, spread the mousse between cake layers and let it set before frosting the cake. For a frosting, apply the mousse with a spatula or piping bag. Keep in mind that mousse is softer than traditional frosting, so it’s best used for cakes that will be served relatively soon after preparation.
