Rich Dark Chocolate Mousse

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the luxurious and velvety texture of this Rich Dark Chocolate Mousse, a dessert that is sure to impress.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-03T12:54:30.430Z

This Rich Dark Chocolate Mousse is the perfect combination of elegance and simplicity. The smooth and rich chocolate flavor is complemented by a light and airy texture, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
  • Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
  • Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Art of Chocolate Mousse

Chocolate mousse is a classic dessert that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. The rich dark chocolate forms the base, providing deep, complex flavors that are both satisfying and indulgent. The process of gently folding the ingredients helps maintain the lightness of the mousse, ensuring each bite is airy yet decadent. This dessert is not only about taste; it’s also about creating a delightful experience for your guests.

While making mousse may seem daunting, it's surprisingly straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. The key lies in the technique of folding, which incorporates air into the mixture, giving the mousse its signature texture. With just a few steps, you can transform simple ingredients into a sophisticated dessert that rivals those found in upscale restaurants.

Pairing Suggestions

This Rich Dark Chocolate Mousse pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavor profile. A dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a creamy contrast, while a sprinkle of sea salt can intensify the chocolate's richness. For a refreshing twist, consider serving the mousse with fresh berries or a citrus salad that complements the chocolate's depth.

For a more festive presentation, garnish the mousse with orange zest, which not only adds a pop of color but also brings a bright, zesty note that balances the richness of the chocolate. A glass of dessert wine or a rich coffee can also elevate the experience, making this mousse the perfect ending to any meal.

Storage and Serving Tips

To keep your mousse fresh and delicious, store it in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld and develop further. When ready to serve, give the mousse a gentle stir to restore its airy texture before spooning it into individual serving dishes or bowls.

If you're preparing this dessert for a special occasion, consider making it a day in advance. This not only saves time on the day of the event but also ensures that the mousse has ample time to set properly. Just remember to keep it chilled until you're ready to serve, and enjoy the compliments that follow!

Ingredients

For the Mousse

  • 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and continue whisking until stiff peaks form.

Prepare the Cream

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with the vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.

Combine Ingredients

Gently fold the melted chocolate into the egg yolks until well combined. Then fold in the whipped cream, followed by the egg whites, being careful to maintain the airy texture.

Chill and Serve

Spoon the mousse into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy!

Garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries if desired.

Nutritional Information

This Rich Dark Chocolate Mousse is not only a treat for the taste buds, but it also offers some nutritional benefits. Dark chocolate is known for its high antioxidant content, which can be beneficial for heart health. Additionally, the mousse contains eggs, which provide protein, and heavy cream, which adds a source of calcium. While it's a dessert meant for indulgence, it's nice to know there are some redeeming qualities in the ingredients.

Keep in mind that moderation is key when indulging in rich desserts like this mousse. Enjoying a small portion can satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or as an occasional treat.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors to customize your Rich Dark Chocolate Mousse. For a minty twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate. You could also fold in a tablespoon of coffee liqueur for a sophisticated coffee flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

If you want a lighter version, consider using a combination of dark chocolate and a lighter chocolate, such as milk chocolate. This can create a unique flavor profile while still providing the rich texture you crave. Another option is to substitute part of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this mousse in advance?

Yes, the mousse can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ Is it possible to use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

While you can use milk chocolate, the mousse will be sweeter and less rich in flavor.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

For a lighter option, you can use whipped coconut cream, but it will alter the flavor and texture.

→ How long does the mousse last in the fridge?

The mousse will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.

Rich Dark Chocolate Mousse

Indulge in the luxurious and velvety texture of this Rich Dark Chocolate Mousse, a dessert that is sure to impress.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time20 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Mousse

  1. 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
  2. 3 large eggs, separated
  3. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  4. 1 cup heavy cream
  5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. Pinch of salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 02

In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and continue whisking until stiff peaks form.

Step 03

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with the vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.

Step 04

Gently fold the melted chocolate into the egg yolks until well combined. Then fold in the whipped cream, followed by the egg whites, being careful to maintain the airy texture.

Step 05

Spoon the mousse into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g