Easy Mousse de Chocolat Recipe: Classic Chocolate Mousse

Embrace the world of exquisite French desserts with a twist in this decadent Chocolate Mousse, also known as “Mousse de Chocolat.” We’re taking this classic to new heights by infusing it with a subtle hint of coffee, elevating the already rich chocolate flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned dessert enthusiast or a novice in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating the perfect Chocolate Mousse that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the world of this delectable treat.

What Is Chocolate Mousse

Chocolate Mousse is a luxurious and velvety dessert made primarily from dark chocolate, raw eggs, sugar, and often cream. It is renowned for its smooth and airy texture, which melts in your mouth, delivering an intense chocolate flavor. Classic Chocolate Mousse can be served in various forms, such as in individual cups or as a cake filling for chocolate cake, and it is a beloved classic in French cuisine.

How is Chocolate Mousse Made

The basic process of making Chocolate Mousse recipes involves melting the chocolate, creating a custard-like mixture with egg yolks and sugar, and then folding in whipped cream (and sometimes whipped egg whites) to achieve the desired airy consistency. The mousse is then chilled before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Is Chocolate Mousse The Same As Chocolate Pudding

No, chocolate mousse is not the same as chocolate pudding. While both are creamy desserts made with chocolate, they have distinct differences in texture and preparation. Chocolate mousse is known for its light and airy consistency, achieved by whipping cream and often incorporating whipped egg whites, resulting in a fluffy, almost mousse-like texture. Chocolate pudding, on the other hand, is typically thicker and smoother in texture, created by cooking a mixture of milk or cream, chocolate, and other ingredients to form a custard-like consistency.

How to Serve Chocolate Mousse

Chocolate Mousse can be served plain or garnished with various toppings like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, berries, or a dusting of cocoa powder. Its versatility and decadent nature make it a favorite dessert for special occasions, romantic dinners, and chocolate lovers of all ages.

Our French Chocolate Mousse Recipe

This is my take on the Classic French Mousse de Chocolate. My version adds a touch of Instant Coffee for an extra rich layer of flavour. It’s a decadent dessert that is perfect to serve on any occasion. It’s also a lot simpler to make than one might think!

What is the Best Chocolate to use For Chocolate Mousse

The best chocolate to use for chocolate mousse is high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content of around 60-70%. This choice strikes the perfect balance between rich chocolate flavor and a smooth, not overly bitter taste. Opt for reputable brands to ensure the best quality, as the chocolate’s quality significantly impacts the mousse’s taste and texture. While bittersweet or semisweet chocolate is preferred, the selection ultimately depends on your personal preference for sweetness and intensity. A top-tier chocolate will elevate your chocolate mousse, resulting in a dessert that’s both indulgent and delectable.

Can You Use Milk Chocolate

While milk chocolate can be used, it tends to be sweeter and less intense in cocoa flavor compared to dark chocolate. Using milk chocolate may result in a mousse that is overly sweet and less rich.

What You’ll Need To Make Chocolate Mousse

• 4 large egg yolks
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 8 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate, melted
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon of decaf or regular instant coffee

How To Make Mousse Au Chocolat: French Chocolate Mousse

Step 1: Preparing the Egg Yolk Mixture

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 4 large egg yolks with 2 tablespoons of sugar and the instant coffee.
2. Add 3/4 cup of heavy cream to the saucepan and whisk everything together.
3. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir constantly. Continue heating until the mixture slightly thickens. This should take approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil.
4. Add in the chocolate and vanilla extract and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Once the mixture reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat.

Optional: For a silky smooth texture, I like to pass the melted chocolate mixture through a sieve or fine mesh strainer. This helps ensure there are no clumps and ensures the result is a light and airy mousse.

Step 2: Preparing the Whipped Cream

1. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the remaining 1 1/4 cups of heavy cream with the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Continue beating until stiff peaks form. This will take about 3-4 minutes on medium speed for firm peaks to appear.

Step 3: Combining the Mixtures

1. Begin by adding about 1/3 of the whipped cream to the cooled chocolate and egg yolk mixture. Gently fold it in using a rubber spatula. This step helps to lighten the mixture.
2. Carefully fold in the rest of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, ensuring a gentle but thorough mix. The goal is to maintain an airy texture.

Step 4: Chilling and Serving

1. Spoon the luscious coffee-infused chocolate mousse into individual bowls or small dishes of your choice.
2. Cover the dishes with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. When ready to serve, remove the mousse from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for a brief moment. This will enhance its flavor and texture.

How to Store Chocolate Mousse

Storing chocolate mousse properly is crucial to maintaining its texture and flavor. Here’s how to store chocolate mousse:

1. Cover and Refrigerate: If you have leftover chocolate mousse, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent any exposure to air. Ensure that the plastic wrap touches the surface of the mousse to minimize the formation of a film on top.
2. Keep it Cold: Chocolate mousse should be stored in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature for storing chocolate mousse is between 32°F (0°C) and 40°F (4°C).
3. Use within 2-3 Days: Chocolate mousse should be consumed within 2-3 days of preparation to ensure its freshness and safety. Over time, the texture may start to change, and it may lose some of its sikly smooth texture.
4. Avoid Freezing: While it’s technically possible to freeze chocolate mousse, it’s not recommended. Freezing can cause the mousse to lose its creamy texture and develop ice crystals, which will affect its overall quality.
5. Serve at the Right Temperature: When you’re ready to enjoy the stored chocolate mousse, take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow it to soften slightly and enhance its flavors.

Remember that the freshness and quality of chocolate mousse also depend on the ingredients used and the initial preparation. Using fresh and high-quality chocolate, eggs, and cream will yield a better result and extend the mousse’s shelf life when stored correctly.

Other Decadent Chocolate Recipes You’ll Love

• Healthy Chocolate and Chickpea Cake
• Raspberry and Dark Chocolate Brownies
• Orange Rosemary and Chocolate Cake
• Double Chocolate and Coffee Banana Muffins

Final Thoughts

With its rich and velvety texture, this Coffee-Infused Chocolate Mousse is a delightful twist on a classic French dessert. The combination of smooth chocolate and a subtle coffee note creates a heavenly treat that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet cravings, this recipe is the perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and treat yourself to the best Chocolate Mousse you’ve ever tasted. Enjoy!