Craving a silky-smooth dessert that feels luxurious yet simple to make? These Chocolate Mousse Cups deliver deep chocolate flavor and an irresistibly airy texture—perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in. First, you melt chocolate; then, you fold in whipped cream and glossy meringue for that signature lift. As a bonus, this no-fuss dessert pairs beautifully with our Classic French Madeleines or bright Berry Yogurt Parfaits.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 cups
Ingredients
- 200g (7 oz) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream & chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions: How to Make Chocolate Mousse Cups
- Melt the chocolate: Set a heatproof bowl over gently simmering water. Add chocolate and butter; stir until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Enrich with yolks: Whisk egg yolks with vanilla. Gradually whisk into the lukewarm chocolate until shiny and cohesive.
- Make the meringue: In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with a pinch of salt to soft peaks. Slowly rain in sugar; beat to stiff, glossy peaks.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks.
- Fold for air: Gently fold whipped cream into the chocolate base in two additions, then fold in the meringue. Work slowly to keep the mixture light.
- Chill & set: Divide into 4 cups and refrigerate at least 2 hours, until softly set.
- Serve: Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. For contrast, serve alongside Quick Cheesecake Bites or Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Tips & Variations for Chocolate Mousse Cups
- Intensity: Use 60–70% cocoa chocolate for richer flavor. Curious about cocoa percentages? See this primer on cocoa % and taste.
- Flavor boosts: A splash of espresso or coffee liqueur deepens the chocolate notes.
- Technique help: New to folding? This quick guide on how to fold batter keeps your mousse airy.
- Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance; garnish just before serving.
- Pairings: Balance richness with Fresh Garden Salad for a dinner menu, then finish with mousse.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: ~320
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 23g
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