Chocolate hazelnut mousse

Chocolate hazelnut mousse combines the nutty flavor of hazelnuts with rich dark chocolate, creating a creamy dessert. This easy-to-make treat involves roasting hazelnuts, melting chocolate, and folding in whipped cream and egg whites for a light texture.

27 Dec 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup hazelnuts
3/4 cup dark chocolate
2 eggs
2 tbsp sugar
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Chocolate hazelnut mousse is a rich and decadent dessert that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This luxurious treat combines the nutty flavor of hazelnuts with the deep, intense taste of dark chocolate, resulting in a creamy and delicious mousse that's sure to impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are fragrant and their skins start to blister. Let them cool slightly, then rub them between your hands or in a clean kitchen towel to remove the skins.

2. Melting Chocolate:
- Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method). Stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Egg and Sugar Mixture:
- Separate the eggs into yolks and whites. Place the yolks in a medium bowl and the whites in a large bowl.
- Add sugar to the egg yolks and beat with a whisk or electric mixer until the mixture is pale and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

4. Combining Chocolate and Yolks:
- Gradually add the melted chocolate to the yolk mixture, stirring continuously to blend smoothly. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

5. Whipping Cream:
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks using an electric mixer. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture gently until well combined.

6. Whipping Egg Whites:
- Whip the egg whites to stiff peaks using an electric mixer. Make sure your beaters and bowl are clean and dry for this step.

7. Incorporating Egg Whites:
- Fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture in three additions. Use a spatula to fold gently, ensuring that you keep as much air as possible in the mixture to maintain the light and airy texture.

8. Chopping Hazelnuts:
- Chop the roasted hazelnuts coarsely and fold half of them into the mousse mixture.

9. Chilling:
- Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or a large serving dish. Sprinkle the remaining chopped hazelnuts on top as a garnish.
- Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until set.

10. Serving:
- Serve the mousse chilled. You can garnish with additional chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or whole hazelnuts if desired.

This chocolate hazelnut mousse is an elegant dessert that's surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a dessert that's perfect for special occasions or any time you want to treat yourself. Enjoy the luxurious texture and rich flavors, and don't forget to share this delightful dessert with your loved ones!

Chocolate hazelnut mousse FAQ:

What is the ideal baking time for the hazelnuts?

Roast the hazelnuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are fragrant and their skins start to blister.

How can I tell when the mousse is set and ready to serve?

The mousse should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours until it is firm to the touch. It should hold its shape when spooned out.

Can I substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate, but keep in mind that it will make the mousse sweeter and alter the rich flavor profile.

What is the best way to store leftover mousse?

Store the mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s well covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors.

What do I do if my egg whites won’t whip to stiff peaks?

Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and dry, as any fat can prevent egg whites from whipping properly. If that doesn’t work, try using fresh, cold egg whites.

Tips:

- Toasting the hazelnuts before using them will enhance their flavor.

- Be sure to separate the egg whites and yolks carefully; any yolk in the whites can prevent them from whipping properly.

- To speed up the melting process, chop the dark chocolate into small pieces.

- Use a chilled bowl and beaters to whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks.

- Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture gently to keep the mousse light and airy.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 230kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 20g
Fat 36g

Chocolate hazelnut mousse