Classic Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients:

• 6 oz (170g) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

1. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl and melt it over a double boiler (a bowl set over simmering water), stirring until smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each.
2. Once melted, remove the chocolate from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

1. In a clean, dry bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside.

Step 4: Mix the Egg Yolks

1. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks and the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar until smooth and pale in color.
2. Stir the egg yolk mixture into the slightly cooled, melted chocolate until well combined.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

1. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture in two batches. Use a spatula and fold carefully to avoid deflating the mousse.
2. Next, fold in the whipped cream until the mousse is light and fluffy. Be gentle with the folding to retain the mousse’s airy texture.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Spoon the mousse into serving cups or bowls.
2. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to set and allow the flavors to develop.

Step 7: Garnish (Optional)

1. Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, shaved chocolate, or fresh berries if desired.

Tips:

• Chocolate Quality: Use good-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Bittersweet or semisweet chocolate works well depending on how sweet you like your mousse.
• Egg Whites: Make sure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks to give the mousse a light and airy texture.
• Make Ahead: Chocolate mousse can be made a day ahead and kept chilled in the refrigerator.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 1-2 hours
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~300 kcal
• Protein: ~6g
• Fat: ~24g
• Carbohydrates: ~22g
• Fiber: ~2g

This Classic Chocolate Mousse is the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers, with a rich, silky texture and deep chocolate flavor. It’s light yet decadent and makes for an elegant treat!