Name: Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse for Valentine’s Day
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped; 1 1/4 cups heavy cream, divided; 4 large egg yolks; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Whipped cream, for garnish; Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Looking for the ultimate indulgent treat to serve this Valentine’s Day? Look no further than this Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse! Imagine a rich, silky chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth with each spoonful, finished off with a light, airy texture that’s just perfect for a romantic dessert. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a celebration with loved ones, this chocolate mousse is the ultimate sweet touch to any Valentine’s Day meal. Trust me, every bite is a moment of pure chocolate bliss!

Why You’ll Love Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse

Here’s why this dessert is bound to win hearts:

Rich, Yet Light: The combination of velvety chocolate and airy whipped cream creates a mousse that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
Simple and Elegant: With just a few ingredients, you can make a dessert that’s both luxurious and easy to prepare. It’s the perfect balance of sophistication and simplicity.
Versatile Topping Options: Dress it up however you like—fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder for that extra touch of elegance.
Make Ahead: This mousse can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a great choice for stress-free entertaining or a romantic night in.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make your Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse:

Dark Chocolate: The star of the show! A good-quality dark chocolate will provide the rich flavor base for your mousse.

Heavy Cream: This creates that smooth, creamy texture that makes the mousse so luscious.

Sugar: Just a little bit to balance the bitterness of the chocolate.

Egg Yolks: They help create a rich, custardy base for the mousse.

Vanilla Extract: A dash of vanilla enhances the flavor and adds depth to the chocolate.

Whipped Cream: Lightens up the mousse and gives it that airy texture. This will be folded into the chocolate mixture.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into making this silky mousse!

1. Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or gently in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Set the melted chocolate aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Custard Base

In a medium saucepan, combine egg yolks and sugar. Over medium heat, gently whisk while slowly adding 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes, making sure it doesn’t boil. Once thickened, remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly. Stir in vanilla extract.

3. Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the remaining heavy cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip; it should be fluffy but not too stiff.

4. Combine the Chocolate and Custard

Slowly pour the melted chocolate into the egg custard mixture, stirring until completely incorporated and smooth.

5. Fold in the Whipped Cream

Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is light and airy. The mousse should have a smooth, fluffy consistency.

6. Chill and Serve

Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set. The mousse needs time to firm up and develop its perfect texture.

7. Garnish and Enjoy

Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries right before serving. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few crushed nuts can add a lovely crunch if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse

This dessert is best served chilled and can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to elevate the experience:

Fresh Fruit: A handful of fresh raspberries, strawberries, or a few slices of orange can add a refreshing burst of flavor and a lovely contrast to the rich mousse.
Crushed Cookies: Serve the mousse on a bed of crushed biscotti, shortbread, or graham crackers for added texture.
Chocolate Shavings or Cocoa Powder: A sprinkle of either on top makes the mousse look extra elegant and indulgent.
Coffee or Wine: Pair this mousse with a strong coffee or a glass of sweet red wine to complement the richness of the chocolate.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: This mousse is a great make-ahead dessert. It can be prepared up to 1 day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Vegan Version: For a dairy-free version, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use a plant-based chocolate that’s dairy-free.
Decadent Twist: Add a splash of liqueur, like Grand Marnier, Bailey’s, or Chambord, for a special touch.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A1: You can, but dark chocolate gives the mousse a richer, more intense flavor. If you use milk chocolate, the mousse will be sweeter and less bold.

Q2: Can I skip the egg yolks?
A2: The egg yolks help create a creamy base, but if you prefer to avoid eggs, you can try using a store-bought custard or egg substitute.

Q3: How long will the mousse last in the fridge?
A3: The mousse will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge. Be sure to cover it tightly so it doesn’t absorb any odors from other foods.

Q4: Can I freeze chocolate mousse?
A4: Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh and chilled.

Q5: What if I don’t have a double boiler?
A5: You can melt the chocolate in the microwave, just be sure to stir every 30 seconds to avoid burning it.

Q6: How can I make the mousse lighter?
A6: If you prefer a lighter mousse, you can increase the whipped cream ratio to make it fluffier, but keep in mind it will change the texture slightly.

Q7: Can I add flavor to the mousse?
A7: Absolutely! You can add a dash of espresso powder, orange zest, or even a few drops of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Q8: How do I get smooth chocolate mousse?
A8: The key is to melt the chocolate slowly and incorporate the ingredients gently to avoid over-mixing and deflating the mousse.

Q9: Can I serve this mousse in a large bowl instead of individual cups?
A9: Yes! You can serve the mousse in a large bowl, then scoop individual servings, or simply serve it family-style.

Q10: Can I use this mousse as a filling for cakes or cupcakes?
A10: Definitely! This mousse makes a fantastic filling for cakes, cupcakes, or even as a topping for a cheesecake.

Conclusion

This Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse is the kind of dessert that feels special and indulgent, perfect for any Valentine’s Day celebration. With its smooth, creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor, it’s sure to impress your loved ones—or simply give yourself a sweet moment of luxury. So go ahead, whip up this luscious mousse, and enjoy a taste of pure chocolate heaven this Valentine’s Day!