Chocolate Mousse is a classic French dessert that showcases the rich, velvety goodness of chocolate. This homemade chocolate mousse is proof that simple ingredients can turn into something truly special. With the pure flavor of real chocolate and its smooth texture, this dessert strikes a perfect balance between rich and light. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this decadent chocolate mousse will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Mousse
This chocolate mousse recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly rewarding. Here are a few reasons why this mousse is a must-try:
- It’s an easy chocolate mousse that requires minimal effort.
- The texture is both light and fluffy yet rich, making it a perfect dessert.
- It can be made ahead of time, perfect for busy schedules.
- This mousse is a best chocolate mousse dessert for any occasion, impressing your friends and family.
- It’s versatile! You can make a chocolate mousse cake or try exciting chocolate mousse variations.
- It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate curls.
- It’s a vegetarian-friendly dessert, suitable for most diets.
- Why is chocolate mousse so popular? Its rich flavor and creamy texture are simply irresistible!
Ingredients for Chocolate Mousse
Gather these items:
- 8 ounces (226g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped (two 4-ounce bars)
- 2/3 cup (160g/ml) heavy cream
- 4 large egg whites* (120g)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- pinch of salt
How to Make Chocolate Mousse Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Place chopped chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to gently simmer. Pour over chocolate, then let it sit for 2–3 minutes to gently soften the chocolate.
- Step 2: With a metal spoon or small silicone spatula, slowly stir until completely combined and chocolate has melted. Set aside to slightly cool.
- Step 3: Place egg whites, sugar, cream of tartar, and salt in a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a saucepan filled with 2 inches of simmering water. Whisk constantly until sugar is dissolved and mixture has thinned out, about 4 minutes.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and pour into a heatproof mixing bowl. Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip on high speed until stiff glossy peaks form, about 7 minutes.
- Step 5: Pour the chocolate ganache into the meringue and gently fold together with a silicone spatula until completely combined.
- Step 6: Spoon or pipe the mousse into dessert dishes, ramekins, or jars. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 48 hours.
- Step 7: Top with whipped cream, chocolate curls, raspberries, and/or fresh mint to serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Mousse
Keep these in mind:
- Cover the mousse after about an hour in the fridge to maintain its texture.
- For a rich chocolate mousse, consider using high-quality dark chocolate.
- Ensure your mixing bowl and whisk are clean and dry for the egg whites to whip properly.
- Experiment with chocolate mousse variations by adding flavors like orange zest or coffee.
Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Mousse
There are many delightful ways to enjoy your chocolate mousse:
- Top with whipped cream for a classic presentation.
- Add fresh berries for a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve it in elegant glasses to impress your guests at chocolate mousse for dinner parties.
How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Mousse
To store your chocolate mousse, simply cover it with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. This makes it ideal for meal prep since you can make it ahead of time and it tastes even better after chilling!
Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Mousse
What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Mousse?
The secret lies in the quality of chocolate and the technique of folding in the egg whites. Using high-quality chocolate will elevate your mousse, while gently folding the meringue ensures a light and airy texture.
Can I make Chocolate Mousse ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chocolate mousse can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and cover it to keep it fresh.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Mousse?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry before whipping egg whites. Also, fold the chocolate mixture gently to maintain airiness.
Variations of Chocolate Mousse You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with these variations:
- Vegan chocolate mousse recipe: Substitute egg whites with aquafaba for a plant-based version.
- Try a no-bake chocolate mousse by using gelatin or agar-agar for stability.
- Make a chocolate mousse with dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- Add spices like cinnamon or chili powder for a unique twist.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Italian Meatball Soup or Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake.
For additional information on the health benefits of chocolate, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Homemade Chocolate Mousse: 7 Steps to Decadence
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade chocolate mousse is proof that simple ingredients can turn into something truly special. With the pure flavor of real chocolate and its smooth, velvety texture, this mousse strikes the perfect balance between rich and light.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (226g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped (two 4-ounce bars)
- 2/3 cup (160g/ml) heavy cream
- 4 large egg whites* (120g)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Place chopped chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to gently simmer. Pour over chocolate, then let it sit for 2–3 minutes to gently soften the chocolate.
- With a metal spoon or small silicone spatula, slowly stir until completely combined and chocolate has melted. Set aside to slightly cool.
- Place egg whites, sugar, cream of tartar, and salt in a heatproof bowl. Set bowl over a saucepan filled with 2 inches of simmering water. Whisk constantly until sugar is dissolved and mixture has thinned out, about 4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and pour into a heatproof mixing bowl. Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip on high speed until stiff glossy peaks form, about 7 minutes.
- Pour the chocolate ganache into the meringue and gently fold together with a silicone spatula until completely combined.
- Spoon or pipe the mousse into dessert dishes, ramekins, or jars. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 48 hours.
- Top with whipped cream, chocolate curls, raspberries, and/or fresh mint to serve.
Notes
- Cover the mousse after about an hour in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing and Refrigerating
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
