This 3-Ingredient Double Chocolate Mousse is a rich, airy, and intensely chocolatey dessert that feels luxurious yet comes together with minimal effort. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a silky, restaurant-quality treat that melts in your mouth and satisfies every chocolate craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only three simple ingredients required
• No baking needed
• Deep, intense chocolate flavor
• Light, airy, and perfectly creamy texture
• Elegant enough for dinner parties
• Quick to prepare with minimal cleanup
• Easy to customize with toppings or flavor additions

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup (170 g) high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa), finely chopped
1 1/2 cups (360 ml) cold heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons (16 g) unsweetened cocoa powder

Directions

1. Place the finely chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
2. Heat 1/2 cup (120 ml) of the heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
3. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to soften the chocolate.
4. Stir gently until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder and whisk until fully incorporated. Allow the chocolate mixture to cool to room temperature.
5. In a separate large mixing bowl, pour the remaining 1 cup (240 ml) cold heavy whipping cream.
6. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. The cream should hold its shape but still look smooth and creamy.
7. Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture to lighten it.
8. Carefully fold in the remaining whipped cream in two additions, using a spatula and slow, sweeping motions to maintain the airy texture.
9. Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving glasses or bowls.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set and chilled through.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 individual portions

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Milk Chocolate Version: Substitute dark chocolate with 170 g milk chocolate for a sweeter, milder flavor.
• Extra Intense: Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
• Orange Chocolate: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon finely grated orange zest for a citrus twist.
• Spiced Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for subtle warmth.
• Layered Dessert: Alternate layers of mousse with crushed chocolate cookies or whipped cream in serving glasses.

Storage/Reheating

Store the mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly covered with plastic wrap or in airtight containers to prevent it from absorbing odors.

This dessert is not suitable for reheating, as heat will cause it to lose its airy texture. Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator.

If the mousse becomes slightly firm after extended refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?

Yes, but choose high-quality chocolate chips. Keep in mind that some chips contain stabilizers that may slightly affect the smoothness of the mousse.

Why did my mousse turn out dense instead of fluffy?

Overmixing during the folding process can deflate the whipped cream. Fold gently and stop once fully incorporated.

Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Yes, it’s ideal for making ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and keep refrigerated until serving.

Can I freeze chocolate mousse?

Freezing is not recommended for best texture, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What type of cocoa powder works best?

Use unsweetened natural cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa can also work but will provide a slightly smoother, less acidic flavor.

How do I know when the whipped cream has soft peaks?

When you lift the beaters, the cream should form peaks that gently fold over at the tip rather than standing straight up.

Can I add sugar to make it sweeter?

Yes, if using very dark chocolate, you can add 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar while whipping the cream.

Is this mousse safe to leave out at room temperature?

Because it contains dairy, it should not sit out for more than 1 hour.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients and use a larger mixing bowl for folding.

How can I make the mousse extra smooth?

Ensure the chocolate is fully melted and smooth before folding, and sift the cocoa powder to avoid lumps.

Conclusion

This 3-Ingredient Double Chocolate Mousse proves that an elegant dessert doesn’t require complicated steps or a long ingredient list. With its velvety texture and deep chocolate flavor, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings or a simple indulgence at home. Once you try it, you’ll see how effortlessly impressive homemade chocolate mousse can be.

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