Mousse au Chocolat
An ethereal, rich, and intensely chocolatey French dessert. This classic Mousse au Chocolat is a testament to the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Dark chocolate(high quality, 60-70% cocoa solids recommended)
- 50 g Unsalted butter(cut into small cubes)
- 4 Large eggs(separated, at room temperature)
- 60 g Granulated sugar
- 1 pinch Salt(fine sea salt or kosher salt)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Gently melt the dark chocolate and butter together. You can do this using a double boiler (a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn't touch the water) or in the microwave at 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy. Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes until it's warm to the touch but not hot.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with a pinch of salt until they are lightly colored and slightly thickened. Gradually whisk the slightly cooled chocolate-butter mixture into the egg yolks until fully combined and smooth.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
In a clean, dry bowl (preferably metal or glass), beat the egg whites using an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, increasing the speed to high, and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. The meringue should hold its shape when the beaters are lifted.
⏱️ 8 minutes - 4
Gently fold about one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate-yolk mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites in two additions, using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to preserve the airiness of the whites, creating a light and fluffy texture. Stop folding as soon as no streaks of egg white remain.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Spoon the mousse mixture evenly into individual serving glasses or small bowls. Cover each serving with plastic wrap, pressing it gently onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm and well chilled.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using high-quality dark chocolate with a good cocoa percentage (60-70%) will significantly impact the flavor. Avoid chocolate chips as they often contain stabilizers that prevent smooth melting.
- ✓Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature and that the bowl and beaters are completely free of any grease or yolk, as this will prevent them from whipping properly.
- ✓When folding the egg whites, use a gentle lifting and turning motion with a spatula to incorporate them without deflating the mixture. Aim for a marbled appearance initially, then fold until just combined.
- ✓For an extra touch of elegance, serve the mousse with a dusting of cocoa powder, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of strong brewed coffee or espresso to the melted chocolate mixture for a mocha flavor.
- Incorporate the zest of one orange into the chocolate mixture after melting for a chocolate-orange twist.
- Add a tablespoon of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or rum, to the chocolate mixture for an adult version.