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Rich and decadent French Chocolate Mousse served as a featured image for a dessert recipe article.

Perfect French Chocolate Mousse

This classic French Chocolate Mousse recipe delivers a rich, decadent, and ethereally light dessert experience. By using high-quality ingredients and following simple steps, you can create a melt-in-your-mouth mousse with a perfect balance of eggs, chocolate, and a touch of sugar.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon liqueur optional, such as rum or Grand Marnier
  • Fresh berries for serving
  • Whipped cream for serving
  • Chocolate shavings for serving

Equipment

  • Double boiler or heatproof bowl and saucepan
  • Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)
  • Whisks
  • Spatulas
  • Small bowls or glasses for serving
  • Refrigerator
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

  1. Melt the chocolate and butter in a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Gradually pour the slightly cooled melted chocolate into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly until well combined. Add a pinch of salt and liqueur, if using.
  4. In a clean, dry bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
  5. Gently fold about one-third of the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites in two additions, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
  6. Divide the mousse evenly among serving bowls or glasses. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it gently against the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
  7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to set properly.
  8. Garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or your favorite toppings and serve.

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content between 60% and 70%. Make sure your eggs are fresh for optimal whipping. Be gentle when folding in the egg whites to maintain the airy texture of the mousse. Chilling the mousse overnight is recommended for the best flavor and texture. Mousse can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap.