Craving an elegant dessert that’s surprisingly simple? This whipped chocolate mousse is a five ingredient dessert recipe that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create this luxurious treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Heavy Cream: Essential for the whipped texture. Do not substitute with milk or half-and-half.
- Good Quality Chocolate: Use bittersweet or semi-sweet for best results. Chocolate chips work well.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps stabilize the cream. Granulated sugar can be used in a pinch, but powdered sugar dissolves more easily.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor. Almond extract is a nice alternative.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Deepens the chocolate taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream, very cold
- ¾ cup good quality bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped or chips
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools: Mixing bowls, whisk or electric mixer, small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Chocolate
Place your finely chopped chocolate or chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, you can melt it in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Whip the Cream
In a large, chilled mixing bowl, combine the very cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer (or a whisk and some elbow grease!), whip on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.
3. Fold in Cocoa Powder
Gently sift the unsweetened cocoa powder into the whipped cream. Carefully fold it in using a spatula until just combined. You want to maintain the airy texture of the cream.
4. Combine with Chocolate
Pour the slightly cooled melted chocolate into the whipped cream mixture. Fold it in gently and quickly until just combined and no streaks of white cream remain. Over-mixing can deflate the mousse.
5. Chill and Serve
Spoon the whipped chocolate mousse into individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow it to set slightly. Serve chilled and enjoy your delightful five ingredient dessert recipe!
Variation Ideas:
- Coffee Kick: Add ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder to the melted chocolate for a mocha flavor.
- Minty Fresh: Stir in ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract with the vanilla for a cool twist.
- Orange Zest: Fold in 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest for a bright, citrusy note.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover whipped chocolate mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may soften slightly over time, but the flavor will remain delicious. Serve chilled directly from the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Why is my mousse not fluffy? Ensure your heavy cream is very cold and avoid over-mixing once the chocolate is added.
- Can I use milk chocolate? Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but you may want to reduce the powdered sugar slightly as milk chocolate is sweeter.
- Do I have to chill the bowl for whipping cream? Chilling the bowl helps the cream whip faster and maintain its structure, especially in warm environments.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can make it up to a day in advance, but it’s best enjoyed within a few hours for optimal texture.
- What if my chocolate seizes? If your chocolate becomes stiff after melting, add a tiny bit of neutral oil (like canola or vegetable) and stir vigorously to smooth it out.
- Can I freeze chocolate mousse? While you can freeze it, the texture might become icy. It’s best enjoyed fresh and chilled.