Decadent Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients

• 200g (7oz) dark chocolate, finely chopped 200g (7oz) dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 4 large eggs, separated 4 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream and cocoa powder, for garnish Whipped cream and cocoa powder, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 13g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 26g, 21g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whip the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until pale and creamy.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the melted chocolate into the egg yolk mixture, stirring gently until well combined.
4. 4.
   In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
5. 5.
   In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
6. 6.
   Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, followed by the beaten egg whites, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
7. 7.
   Divide the mousse into serving glasses or bowls and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
8. 8.
   Before serving, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dark chocolate — Use a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for the best flavor and texture.
• Eggs — Make sure the eggs are at room temperature before separating them. This will help achieve better volume when whipping the egg whites.

Tips & Tricks

• Be gentle when folding the whipped cream and beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to maintain the mousse's airy texture.
• For a twist, add a splash of liqueur such as Grand Marnier or coffee liqueur to the chocolate mixture for extra flavor.
• Serve the mousse in elegant glassware to enhance its visual appeal.

Serving advice

Serve the Decadent Chocolate Mousse chilled, allowing its flavors to develop fully. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a burst of fruity freshness.

Presentation advice

To create an eye-catching presentation, pipe a rosette of whipped cream on top of each mousse and dust with cocoa powder. Garnish with a chocolate curl or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.