Go Back
+ servings
A decadent serving of rich Chocolate Mousse in a clear glass, topped with whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings.

Chocolate Mousse (Make-Ahead Dessert)

This make-ahead chocolate mousse is an elegant yet simple dessert that is gluten-free and can be made with low-sugar options. It's perfect for busy parents and home cooks who want to impress guests without compromising on taste or dietary needs.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Refrigeration Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Calories: 375

Ingredients
  

For the Mousse
  • 3 large eggs separated, room temperature
  • 125 g dark cooking chocolate bittersweet / 70% cocoa
  • 10 g unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup cream full fat, must be able to be whipped
  • 3 tbsp caster sugar or to taste for low-sugar option
For Decoration
  • whipped cream additional
  • chocolate shavings

Equipment

  • Microwave-proof bowl
  • Whisk
  • Electric mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Small glasses or pots

Method
 

  1. Separate eggs while cold. Place whites in a large bowl and yolks in a small bowl. Set whites aside.
  2. Whisk the egg yolks until uniform in color.
  3. Break the dark chocolate into pieces and place in a microwave-proof bowl with the butter. Melt in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.
  5. Add the sugar to the egg whites. Beat the egg whites until firm peaks form.
  6. Gently fold the egg yolks into the whipped cream using a rubber spatula. Use a maximum of 8 folds; some streaks are acceptable.
  7. Ensure the melted chocolate is still runny but warm (between 35C/95F and 40C/104F). If it has cooled too much, gently re-warm it in the microwave in 5-second bursts.
  8. Pour the slightly cooled chocolate into the cream and yolk mixture. Fold gently until just combined, using a maximum of 8 folds. Some streaks are okay.
  9. Add about one-quarter of the beaten egg whites to the chocolate mixture. Fold them in using a "smear" motion across the surface to incorporate, aiming for about 10 folds until the lumps of white are mostly blended.
  10. Pour the chocolate mixture into the remaining egg whites. Fold gently until no obvious white patches remain, aiming for a maximum of 12 folds.
  11. Divide the mousse mixture evenly between 4 small glasses or pots.
  12. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to set.
  13. To serve, garnish with additional whipped cream and chocolate shavings. You can also add raspberries and a sprig of mint for color.

Nutrition

Calories: 375kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 7gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 171mgSodium: 92mgPotassium: 266mgFiber: 1gSugar: 19gVitamin A: 700IUCalcium: 134mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use cooking chocolate (70% cocoa bittersweet) for the best texture and flavor. Ensure you use full-fat cream that is suitable for whipping. For a low-sugar option, adjust the caster sugar to your preference. This mousse is best consumed within 2 days but will keep for up to a week in the refrigerator.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!