Easy chocolate mousse recipe

1. Put the chocolate, butter and 75ml warm water (see tip, below) in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water. Push the chocolate and butter gently into the warm water with a wooden spoon to help it melt, but avoid stirring too much. Once three-quarters of the butter and chocolate is melted, remove the bowl from the heat. Stir until melted, smooth and glossy. Set aside until lukewarm.
2. Working quickly, use a spatula to stir the egg yolks into the chocolate mixture, one at a time. In a separate bowl, use an electric whisk to whip the egg whites to soft peaks, then gradually add the sugar, whisking, until stiff peaks form.
   WATCH: What should 'stiff peaks' look like?

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3. Gently fold about a fifth of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture, then fold in the rest, being careful not to knock out the air bubbles. Pour into wine or dessert glasses, cover with clingfilm and chill overnight to set.
   WATCH: How to fold

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4. When ready to serve, whip the cream (if using) to soft peaks. Top each glass with a spoonful of cream and decorate with chocolate shards, if you like.

Tip: For the ideal warm water temperature, mix one-third boiling water with two-thirds cold water.

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Can you freeze chocolate mousse?

Yes, you can freeze chocolate mousse. Store in an airtight container or in a bowl covered in clingfilm and freeze for up to 3 months. For more freezer tips, see our handy guide.

What is chocolate mousse?

Chocolate mousse is a dessert typically featuring chocolate, eggs, sugar and sometimes a little butter. It was invented in France (mousse means 'froth' in Old French) and appeared in cookbooks in the 18th century. Some recipes feature cream in the mousse, as well as additional flavours such as coffee or orange.

What to eat with chocolate mousse?

You can eat lots of things with chocolate mousse. Try a whipped cream, berries, chocolate shavings, cocoa powder or even a caramel or toffee sauce.

How long does chocolate mousse last?

Chocolate mousse will last 2-3 days in the fridge, covered in clingfilm or stored in an airtight container.

Can you bake chocolate mousse?

Yes, you can bake chocolate mousse when it features in a cake or tart. Our Chocolate mousse raspberry tartlets include a rich mousse filling of chocolate, eggs, sugar and raspberries.

Can you make chocolate mousse in advance?

Yes, you can make chocolate mousse in advance. You will need to keep it covered in the fridge and it will last 2-3 days.

Can you make chocolate mousse with milk chocolate?

Yes, you can make chocolate mousse with milk chocolate – it will have a sweeter, less intense, chocolatey flavour, so will generally require less added sugar in the recipe. We have an Avocado chocolate mousse recipe featuring milk chocolate chips. The sweetness of the milk chocolate balances well with the mild, buttery flavour of the avocado.

Does chocolate mousse have alcohol?

Chocolate mousse doesn't have alcohol, but you can include alcohol, if you wish. Try an Espresso martini chocolate mousse with espresso powder and vodka – or swap the vodka for water to make it alcohol-free.

Does chocolate mousse have eggs?

Yes, most chocolate mousse recipes have eggs, but you can make it without them. Try our Chocolate avocado mousse – the creamy avocado is a good binding agent for the mousse and helps to create a silky texture. This recipe is also vegan and dairy-free.

Does chocolate mousse have gluten?

No, most chocolate mousse recipes do not have gluten. The main ingredients are chocolate, eggs and sugar. Check the packaging, as some chocolate may contain traces of gluten especially milk varieties where barley malt could be added.

How long does chocolate mousse take to set?

Chocolate mousse takes at least 2 hours to set in the fridge, but it really depends on the recipe and ingredients. Some mousses require longer setting time and some need to set overnight in the fridge, such as this easy chocolate mousse recipe.