Name: Easy Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 large egg yolks (room temperature); 1/2 cup white granulated sugar; 3 cups heavy whipping cream (divided); 12 ounces semisweet Belgian chocolate (very finely chopped); 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Introduction

This easy chocolate mousse is a rich and creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor, it’s sure to impress your guests with minimal effort.

The image shows a creamy chocolate mousse served in a transparent glass cup with a short stem. The mousse has a smooth, light brown layer filling the cup, topped with a thick, slightly darker dusting of cocoa powder and small chocolate shavings scattered on top. At the center, a swirl of white whipped cream is placed, with some cocoa powder sprinkled over it, adding contrast. There are more similar glasses blurred in the background, set on a white marbled surface, along with pieces of dark chocolate and part of a spoon with a golden and black handle visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 large egg yolks (room temperature)
1/2 cup white granulated sugar
3 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
12 ounces semisweet Belgian chocolate, very finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg yolks using a hand mixer for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and creamy.
Step 2: Heat 1 cup of the heavy whipping cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it starts to simmer.
Step 3: Carefully pour one-quarter of the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture in a steady stream while whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Gradually add the remaining hot cream, continuing to whisk.
Step 4: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens slightly, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 5: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate until fully melted and the mixture is smooth and shiny. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 6: In a chilled bowl, whip the remaining 2 cups of heavy cream with the vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 7: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled chocolate mixture until well combined. Spoon the mousse into serving glasses and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Step 8: Serve topped with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
Make sure the egg yolks are at room temperature to ensure smooth mixing and avoid curdling.
For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream for the heavy whipping cream.
Add a splash of coffee or espresso to the chocolate mixture for a mocha twist.

Storage

Store the chocolate mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Rewhip gently before serving if needed to restore texture. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a glass bowl filled with two main layers: the bottom layer is a rich, dark brown chocolate mousse with a soft and slightly grainy texture, topped with a thick, white whipped cream layer. The whipped cream is sprinkled lightly with small, dark chocolate shavings that add texture and contrast to the dish. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. Another similar bowl is slightly blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make chocolate mousse ahead of time?

Yes, this mousse can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld.

Is it safe to use raw egg yolks in this recipe?

This recipe gently cooks the egg yolks during the simmering step, which reduces the risk of consuming raw eggs. Always use fresh, high-quality eggs and follow the cooking instructions carefully.