Decadent Dark Chocolate Mousse (Print version)

A rich, silky French dessert featuring intense dark chocolate and a light, airy texture.

# Ingredient List:

→ Chocolate Base

01 - 5.3 oz high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
02 - 1.1 oz unsalted butter, cubed

→ Eggs

03 - 3 large eggs, separated
04 - 2.1 oz granulated sugar

→ Cream

05 - 5 fl oz heavy cream (minimum 36% fat), chilled

→ Garnish (optional)

06 - Dark chocolate shavings
07 - Fresh berries
08 - Whipped cream

# How To Make It:

01 - Combine dark chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl over simmering water; stir until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks with half of the sugar (1.1 oz) until pale and creamy.
03 - Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg yolk blend until well combined.
04 - In a clean bowl, whisk egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form; gradually add remaining sugar (1.1 oz) and continue whisking to stiff, glossy peaks.
05 - Fold one-third of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it, then gently fold in the remaining whites in two additions without deflating.
06 - Whip chilled heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold it gently into the chocolate mixture until smooth and homogeneous.
07 - Divide the mixture into serving glasses or ramekins, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
08 - Optionally garnish with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or whipped cream before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This mousse feels like a little secret indulgence that you can whip up anytime to impress guests or treat yourself.
  • The texture is so silky and light it almost melts before you even taste it, making you crave another bite.
02 -
  • Folding the egg whites and cream gently is crucial — rushing this step deflates the mousse and changes its texture.
  • The quality of your chocolate and freshness of eggs dramatically alter the taste; splurging here pays off beautifully.
03 -
  • If your chocolate seizes while melting, a splash of warm cream can smooth it back out elegantly.
  • The secret to that cloud-like lightness is in the gentle folding motion — use a rubber spatula and turn the bowl slowly.