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Classic French Chocolate Mousse Recipe

3.8 from 30 reviews

This classic French chocolate mousse is a rich and airy dessert, crafted with dark chocolate, eggs, and whipped cream to create a silky smooth texture. Perfectly balanced with the bitterness of high-quality cacao and sweetness, it is a timeless treat that’s impressively simple to make and sure to delight any chocolate lover.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Base

  • 6 ounces dark chocolate (at least 70% cacao)
  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Cream

  • 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Melt the Chocolate: Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring gently until the chocolate melts smoothly. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
  2. Prepare Egg Yolk Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. Then, carefully fold the melted chocolate into the yolk mixture, ensuring it’s fully combined.
  3. Beat Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the chocolate and yolk mixture to maintain the mousse’s lightness.
  4. Whip Cream and Combine: Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, blending delicately to keep the mousse airy and smooth.
  5. Chill to Set: Spoon the mousse into individual serving dishes or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the mousse to set and develop its signature creamy texture before serving.

Notes

  • Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao for the best flavor and texture.
  • Ensure egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks to incorporate air for a light mousse.
  • Be gentle when folding ingredients to maintain an airy consistency.
  • This mousse can be made up to one day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
  • For added flavor, sprinkle a dusting of cocoa powder or garnish with fresh berries before serving.

Keywords: chocolate mousse, classic French dessert, dark chocolate mousse, airy chocolate mousse, easy mousse recipe