Description
This Easy Chocolate Mousse recipe delivers a rich, silky, and airy dessert made with semi-sweet chocolate, eggs, and a hint of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. It requires no baking and is ready to chill within minutes, making it perfect for an elegant yet simple treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Mixture
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (finely chopped, or dark chocolate)
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Egg Mixture
- 2 eggs (large, separated)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (divided)
Cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream (lightly whipped for a softer, silkier mousse)
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate: Gently melt the chopped chocolate over a double boiler or in short microwave bursts, stirring until smooth. Stir in the espresso powder and set aside to cool slightly until warm but not hot.
- Combine Egg Yolks: Whisk the egg yolks into the melted chocolate one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1 tablespoon of the sugar and continue beating until glossy, medium peaks form, giving the mousse its airy texture.
- Fold in Cream: Gently fold the lightly whipped heavy cream into the chocolate mixture to slightly loosen it and add silkiness.
- Incorporate Egg Whites: Fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then gently fold in the remaining egg whites just until combined to maintain airiness.
- Chill the Mousse: Spoon the mousse into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish with shaved chocolate and fresh raspberries for a beautiful presentation and added flavor contrast.
Notes
- Use fresh eggs and consume promptly as this recipe contains raw eggs.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream whipped to soft peaks.
- The espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor wonderfully.
- Ensure that when folding, you do so gently to preserve the mousse’s light, airy texture.
- Garnishing with fresh berries adds a fruity contrast and vibrant color.
