Chocolate mousse

Chocolate mousse is a rich and creamy dessert made using milk, eggs, and gelatin, resulting in a smooth texture. It's an easy recipe that requires simple techniques to create a decadent treat for any occasion.

19 Jan 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 130 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup milk (1% fat)
2 eggs
1 tsp gelatin powder

Chocolate mousse is a classic, indulgent dessert that is surprisingly easy to make. By combining a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and creamy treat that is perfect for any occasion. With the right techniques, this chocolate mousse will become one of your go-to recipes.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Gelatin:
- Place the 1 teaspoon of gelatin powder into a small bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons of cold water to the gelatin and set it aside to let the gelatin bloom. This typically takes about 5 minutes.

2. Heat the Milk:
- Pour the 1/2 cup of 1% fat milk into a small saucepan.
- Heat the milk over medium heat until it is just about to boil (small bubbles forming around the edges). Do not let the milk boil.

3. Temper the Eggs:
- While the milk is heating, crack the 2 eggs into a medium-sized bowl and whisk them until they are well combined.
- Once the milk is hot, slowly add it to the eggs while constantly whisking to prevent the eggs from scrambling. This is called tempering and it ensures that the eggs get slowly accustomed to the heat.

4. Combine the Mixture:
- Pour the egg and milk mixture back into the saucepan.
- Continue to cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

5. Dissolve the Gelatin:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot mixture, stirring until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

6. Chill the Mixture:
- Pour the mixture into a large mixing bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
- Once it has cooled, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or until it is thoroughly chilled and slightly set.

7. Whip the Mixture:
- After the mixture has chilled, use an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment to whip the mixture until it becomes light, airy, and mousse-like in texture. This can take about 3-5 minutes.

8. Serve:
- Spoon the mousse into individual serving dishes.
- Optionally, you can top the mousse with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries for added garnish.

9. Chill (Optional):
- If you prefer a firmer texture, place the filled serving dishes back in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving.

With just a few ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a delicious and elegant chocolate mousse that's sure to impress. By following these tips and techniques, you'll achieve a smooth and velvety texture that makes this dessert irresistible. Enjoy your homemade chocolate mousse!

Chocolate mousse FAQ:

What is the baking time for chocolate mousse?

Chocolate mousse does not require baking. It is prepared on the stovetop and then chilled in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.

How do I know when the chocolate mousse is done?

The mousse is done when it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon after cooking. Once chilled, it should be light and airy, with a mousse-like texture.

Can I substitute the milk for a non-dairy alternative?

Yes, you can substitute the 1% milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. However, the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

How should I store leftover chocolate mousse?

Store any leftover mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is fully chilled before sealing to maintain its texture.

What should I do if my mousse doesn’t set properly?

If your mousse doesn't set, it may be due to insufficient chilling time or the gelatin not dissolving completely. Ensure you follow the blooming and dissolving steps carefully and refrigerate for a longer time if needed.

Tips:

- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate and fresh ingredients for the best results. The taste of your mousse will largely depend on the quality of these components.

- Temperature Control: Make sure your chocolate is melted and cooled to room temperature before mixing it with other ingredients. This prevents the chocolate from seizing or curdling the mixture.

- Gelatin Technique: Dissolve the gelatin powder in a small amount of cold water before adding it to any warm liquid. This will ensure it dissolves evenly without forming lumps.

- Chill Time: Allow your mousse to chill well in the refrigerator for at least a few hours. This helps it set properly and enhances the flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 50kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 1.73g
Fiber 0.00g
Sugar 1.48g
Fat 2.76g

Chocolate mousse