This coffee mousse in a chocolate cup is a playful yet elegant dessert that’s completely edible from start to finish. Light, fluffy coffee mousse is nestled inside a rich chocolate shell, making it perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or anytime you want a dessert that feels a little extra special without being complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chocolate cups filled with coffee mousse look impressive but are surprisingly easy to make. The mousse is airy and smooth, with a gentle coffee flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate. You can customize the garnishes to suit any occasion, and because everything is edible, there’s no waste and no dishes left behind.

Ingredients

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

For the coffee mousse
10 to 12 large marshmallows
1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to soft peaks

For the chocolate cups
1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vegetable shortening

For garnish (optional)
Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings
Sprinkles or finely chopped nuts

Directions

To make the chocolate cups, melt the milk chocolate chips and vegetable shortening together using a double boiler, stirring until completely smooth. Spoon or brush the melted chocolate into silicone cup or sphere molds, coating the sides generously. Chill until firm, then add a second coat for sturdiness. Chill again until fully set.

To prepare the coffee mousse, combine the marshmallows and brewed coffee in a heavy saucepan. Heat gently over low heat, stirring constantly, until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.

Once cooled, gently fold the whipped cream into the coffee mixture until fully combined and fluffy. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

When ready to serve, carefully remove the chocolate cups from the molds and place them on serving plates. Spoon the coffee mousse into each cup, taking care not to overfill. Garnish as desired and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 to 8 chocolate cups, depending on mold size.
Prep time: about 30 minutes
Chilling time: about 2 hours
Total time: about 2 hours and 30 minutes

Variations

You can use dark chocolate or white chocolate for the cups to change the flavor profile. Flavored coffee, such as vanilla or nut-infused coffee, adds an extra layer of taste to the mousse. For a mocha-style dessert, stir a small amount of cocoa powder into the coffee before melting the marshmallows.

Storage/Reheating

Store assembled chocolate cups filled with mousse in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep them uncovered or lightly covered so moisture does not soften the chocolate. The mousse can be prepared a day ahead and stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dessert is not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

Can I make the chocolate cups ahead of time?

Yes, the chocolate cups can be made up to two days in advance and stored in a cool, dry place or the refrigerator.

What kind of coffee works best?

Any brewed coffee works well, but flavored coffee adds a unique twist and enhances the dessert.

Can I use instant coffee?

Yes, dissolve instant coffee granules in hot water according to package directions, then measure out the required amount.

Why did my chocolate cup crack?

Chocolate cups can crack if the shell is too thin or not fully set. Applying two or more coats helps prevent this.

Can I freeze the mousse?

Freezing is not recommended, as it can change the texture and make the mousse grainy when thawed.

Is this dessert very sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by the coffee flavor, but you can reduce sweetness slightly by using dark chocolate.

Can I make this without molds?

Molds work best, but you can also brush chocolate inside small paper cups and peel them away once set.

How do I remove the cups from the molds easily?

Make sure the chocolate is fully chilled, then gently flex the silicone mold to release the cups.

Can I add toppings inside the mousse?

Yes, finely chopped nuts or chocolate shavings can be folded into the mousse before chilling.

How long can the filled cups sit out?

They are best served within an hour at cool room temperature to prevent melting.

Conclusion

Coffee mousse in a chocolate cup is a delightful dessert that combines fun presentation with classic flavors. With a creamy coffee filling and a rich chocolate shell, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to customize and perfect for making any meal feel special.

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