Chocolate Almond Mousse Hearts

Name: Chocolate Almond Mousse Hearts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons almond extract; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup toasted almonds, chopped; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I think of indulgent desserts, Chocolate Almond Mousse Hearts immediately come to my mind. The rich blend of chocolate and almond creates a sophisticated treat that’s perfect for any special occasion. I love how light and airy the mousse feels, contrasting beautifully with the heart shape that makes each bite feel like a celebration. This dessert has quickly become a favorite in our household, and I can’t wait to share this enchanting recipe with you, so you can experience the joy of making it yourself.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:29:30.027Z

Creating these Chocolate Almond Mousse Hearts has become a cherished tradition in our home. I remember the first time I made them; the smell of melted chocolate combined with almond essence filled the air, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating dessert. It was such a delight to see how quickly they disappeared!

What makes this mousse special is the incorporation of whipped cream for lightness and the contrasted texture from the chopped almonds. It’s vital to fold the cream gently to maintain that airy quality. Trust me, with a few simple steps, you will impress your guests and enjoy the delightful flavors!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty almond hints
Decadent yet light texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for romantic dinners or as a show-stopping dessert

      

Secrets to Perfect Chocolate Mousse

To achieve the light, airy texture of this Chocolate Almond Mousse, it's essential to master the art of folding. Use a flexible spatula to gently incorporate the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture. This technique helps retain the air you've whipped into the cream for a mousse that feels ethereal in your mouth. Remember, the goal is to unify the mixtures without deflating the whipped cream, so take your time and use gentle motions.

The choice of chocolate not only affects the mousse's flavor but also its texture. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for richer, more intense flavor and a silkier texture. If you prefer a subtle sweetness, try adjusting the amount of powdered sugar in the whipped cream. Aim for a balance where the sugar enhances the bittersweet chocolate without overpowering it.

Ingredient Insights

Almond extract plays a pivotal role in adding depth to this dessert. It complements the dark chocolate beautifully and enhances the overall flavor profile. If you want a lighter almond taste, you can reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon. Conversely, for a bolder almond presence, consider using almond liqueur in place of the extract, but remember to account for additional liquid in the recipe.

The toasted almonds contribute not just flavor but also texture. When chopping the almonds, aim for a rough chop to maximize their crunch in every bite. If you're aiming for a nut-free version, feel free to substitute with chopped, toasted coconut flakes for a similar crunch, or simply omit the nuts entirely for a smooth mousse experience.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your luscious Chocolate Almond Mousse Hearts.

Ingredients

8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons almond extract
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup toasted almonds, chopped
Pinch of salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delightful mousse hearts.

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and a pinch of salt. Gently melt them over a double boiler, stirring often until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the almond extract, then let it cool slightly.

Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to over-whip.

Combine Mixtures

Using a spatula, carefully fold half of the whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture. Once combined, gently fold in the remaining whipped cream. Lastly, sprinkle in the chopped toasted almonds.

Chill

Spoon the mousse mixture into heart-shaped molds and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.

Serve

Carefully remove the mousse from the molds and serve chilled. Garnish with extra chopped almonds or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your beautiful Chocolate Almond Mousse Hearts with friends and loved ones!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling some melted chocolate on top before serving. You can also swap the dark chocolate for milk chocolate for a sweeter treat.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a special event, this mousse is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can prepare the mousse a day in advance and let it set overnight in the fridge. This not only allows the flavors to develop more fully, but it also frees up time on the day of your gathering, leaving you to focus on other dishes.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the set mousse. After it's fully chilled and firm, wrap each heart carefully in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the mousse in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions

When it's time to serve, presentation adds that extra charm. You can dust the mousse hearts with cocoa powder or finely grated chocolate to create a sophisticated look. A fresh raspberry or a few mint leaves on top can also add a pop of color and freshness. This enhances the overall eating experience, enticing your guests even before the first bite.

Pairing this dessert with a complementary beverage can elevate your dining experience. A glass of dessert wine or a rich coffee balances the chocolate beautifully. Alternatively, serve with a dollop of crème fraîche to cut through the richness of the mousse, providing a delightful contrast to every mouthful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor, but keep in mind that the mousse will be less rich.

→ How long can I store the mousse?

The mousse can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover it well so it doesn't absorb other odors.

→ Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld nicely.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream as a substitute for heavy cream and dairy-free chocolate to create a dairy-free version!