Velvety Silky Dessert

As seen on: Delicious Dessert Recipes

This dreamy chocolate mousse mixes dark chocolate with fluffy whipped cream and sweetened egg yolks for an airy treat. Fancy yet straightforward, done in 30 minutes before chilling.

emilyscooks.com
Shared By Emily
Last revised on Fri, 18 Apr 2025 20:35:28 GMT
A glass bowl filled with swirled chocolate mousse topped with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Save this
A glass bowl filled with swirled chocolate mousse topped with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. | emilyscooks.com

I gotta tell you about my top pick for chocolate treats that always gets everyone smiling. My French neighbor taught me this chocolate mousse and it's been my favorite special treat ever since. It's amazing how a few simple things can turn into something so smooth and decadent - that's real kitchen wonder right there.

Velvety Chocolate Bliss

The best thing about this mousse is the perfect mix of rich yet airy texture. Each bite hits you with deep chocolate flavor then just dissolves on your tongue. I can't help but watch people's reactions when they try it - their expressions say it all.

Quality First

Great chocolate mousse begins with picking good chocolate. I don't mind spending extra on fancy dark chocolate because it really shows in the taste. Room temp eggs and fresh whipping cream that fluffs up perfectly - these basic ingredients come together to make something truly special.

Creating Wonder

I find making this mousse almost calming now. Getting the chocolate all shiny when it melts, carefully warming those egg yolks, and the slow process of mixing in the whipped cream. You need to pay attention to each part, but man, it's totally worth the effort.

Worth The Wait

Waiting for setting time is so tough. Those refrigerator hours seem to drag on forever but they're so important for getting that just-right texture. I sometimes peek at them while they firm up, knowing all that waiting will make eating it feel even better.

Two cups of rich chocolate mousse topped with chopped nuts are presented on a white plate with black spoons beside them. Save this
Two cups of rich chocolate mousse topped with chopped nuts are presented on a white plate with black spoons beside them. | emilyscooks.com

Small Things Count

After making tons of batches, I've figured out how much temperature matters. Eggs mix in better when they're not cold, and chocolate needs to cool a bit before adding cream. These tiny tricks are what turn an okay mousse into an amazing one.

Personal Touch

I'll throw in some Grand Marnier on special days or a tiny bit of espresso powder to boost the chocolate flavor. My newest trick is adding a tiny bit of sea salt - it actually makes the chocolate taste stronger. You can change it up in so many ways.

Pretty Serving

How it looks matters too. I love using my grandma's fancy glasses, then adding fresh raspberries and mint on top. Sometimes I'll scatter some chocolate shavings or put a spoonful of whipped cream on top. These little extras make it feel fancy.

Stays Good

This mousse lasts well in the fridge so it's great for parties. I often fix it a day before I need it since the flavors get even better overnight. Just make sure to cover it and keep it away from foods with strong smells.

Homemade Heart

There's something about mousse you make yourself that store versions just can't beat. Maybe it's using fresh stuff or putting more care into it. Whatever it is, everyone can taste the difference and that makes me feel proud.

A close-up image of two glasses filled with chocolate mousse, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings on a dark background. Save this
A close-up image of two glasses filled with chocolate mousse, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings on a dark background. | emilyscooks.com

Memorable Times

This dessert has become what I make for big moments. From birthdays to anniversaries or just because, it always makes things feel extra special. Something about chocolate mousse just screams celebration.

Great Companions

Serving this mousse with ruby port or fresh coffee tastes amazing together. The flavors really play off each other. If you don't want alcohol, mint tea works great too - the fresh taste goes so well with rich chocolate.

Smooth Secret

Getting that perfect mousse feel comes down to how you do it. The air bubbles trapped in whipped cream, the careful folding that keeps those bubbles intact - it's kind of like a tasty science project. When you nail it, you get something super smooth.

Picking Chocolate

Your choice of chocolate sets up the whole dessert. I mix bittersweet and semisweet chocolate to create deeper flavors that keep you wanting another spoonful. Don't cheap out here - good chocolate makes all the difference.

Growing Through Fails

Believe me, I've messed up plenty of mousses. Chocolate that got grainy, cream whipped too much, eggs that cooked too fast. Each fail taught me something new, and now those lessons help me make perfect mousse every time.

Two dessert cups filled with chocolate mousse topped with white chocolate shavings and dark chocolate curls, on a wooden surface. Save this
Two dessert cups filled with chocolate mousse topped with white chocolate shavings and dark chocolate curls, on a wooden surface. | emilyscooks.com

Kid-Friendly Fun

My children love to help make this dessert, especially adding their own toppings. They go wild with tiny marshmallows, bright sprinkles, and crushed cookies to make it their own. It's a fun way to get kids excited about cooking.

Party Favorite

When friends come over, I serve these in small glasses with berries and mint on top. They look so fancy on the table and everyone loves having their very own dessert. These small touches really make dinner feel special.

Your Perfect Version

Everyone likes their mousse a bit different. Some folks want it super light, others prefer it denser and richer. I enjoy playing with different amounts until I find what tastes best. That's what makes cooking fun - you can adjust it just for you.

Dairy-Free Wonder

When my vegan buddies visit, I swap in coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate. It's surprising how creamy it still turns out without any animal stuff in it. I think everyone should get to enjoy good chocolate mousse.

Sharing Happiness

I love giving these mousses to friends and neighbors. Packed in cute jars with a little note and maybe some fresh berries, they're such a nice way to show you care. Food made with love always tastes better.

A glass dish filled with swirled chocolate mousse topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Save this
A glass dish filled with swirled chocolate mousse topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. | emilyscooks.com

Common Questions

→ What kind of chocolate works best for this mousse?

Grab baking chocolate bars (dark or semi-sweet) from the baking section, not regular chocolate bars. Baking chocolate melts just right and creates the smooth texture mousse needs.

→ Can I put some booze in my chocolate mousse?

Sure, drop in 1-2 tablespoons of something like Amaretto, Kahlua, Bailey's, or Crème de Cocoa. Mix it into your egg yolk blend after you've heated it but before you mix with the chocolate.

→ How many days will my chocolate mousse stay good?

If you keep it in a sealed container in your fridge, the mousse will be good for 5-7 days. Just make sure it's tightly covered so it stays fresh and keeps its texture.

→ Is there another option instead of heavy whipping cream?

Nope, you really need heavy whipping cream for this one. It gives the mousse its fluffiness and structure that other dairy just can't match.

→ Why do I have to cook the egg yolks first?

You need to get those egg yolks to 160°F so they're safe to eat. This step also makes the mousse silky and helps it hold together better. Just keep stirring so you don't end up with scrambled eggs.

Wrap-Up

A luxurious chocolate mousse that brings together the intensity of dark chocolate with pillowy whipped cream and carefully warmed egg yolks. This timeless treat is both sophisticated and easy to make.

Chocolate Mousse Delight

A velvety, airy chocolate mousse that mixes dark chocolate, fluffy whipped cream, and gently sweetened egg yolks for an unforgettable treat.

Preparation Time
30 Minutes
Cooking Time
~
Overall Time
30 Minutes
Shared By: Emily

Meal Type: Desserts

Skill Level: Advanced

Cuisine Style: American

Makes: 6 Portions (6 individual dessert cups)

Special Diet: Vegetarian-Friendly, Made Without Gluten

What You’ll Need

01 items 8 ounces dark baking chocolate, chopped.
02 items 1/2 cup water, divided equally.
03 items 2 tablespoons soft unsalted butter.
04 items 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
05 items 3 large egg yolks, separated from whites.
06 items 1/4 cup regular white sugar.
07 items 1 1/4 cups cold heavy whipping cream.

Steps To Make It

Step 01

Whip the cold cream in a chilled bowl using cold beaters until it forms soft peaks. Stick it in the fridge until you need it.

Step 02

Warm water in the bottom of a double boiler on medium. Throw in chocolate, half the water (1/4 cup), butter, and vanilla. Mix until everything's completely smooth.

Step 03

In a small pot, combine egg yolks, remaining water, and sugar over low-medium heat. Keep stirring for about 10 minutes until it hits 160°F.

Step 04

Pour the egg mixture into your melted chocolate and stir till it's all combined. Cool it down in an ice bath for about 5-7 minutes, with occasional gentle stirring.

Step 05

Carefully fold your chilled whipped cream into the chocolate mix until everything's blended. Don't stir too much or you'll lose all the fluffiness.

Step 06

Spoon into individual serving cups, wrap them up tight, and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours before you dig in.

Extra Notes

  1. Always grab chocolate from the baking section, not the candy bars.
  2. You can splash in 1-2 tablespoons of Amaretto or Kahlua after your egg mix is done cooking.
  3. Only heavy whipping cream works here, nothing else will do the job.

Essential Tools

  • Double boiler setup.
  • Electric mixer with whisk.
  • Medium saucepan.
  • Kitchen thermometer.

Allergen Info

Review ingredients carefully for allergens, and consult a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Eggs in the mousse.
  • Dairy products (whipping cream and butter).

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Keep in mind, this data is an estimate and not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
  • Calories: 457
  • Fat Content: 44 grams
  • Total Carbs: 21 grams
  • Protein Content: 7 grams