Chocolate Mint Mousse with Whipped Cream

Indulge in the perfect combination of decadence and freshness with this Chocolate Mint Mousse with Whipped Cream. This dessert pairs the richness of dark chocolate mousse with a refreshing hint of mint, creating a sophisticated flavor profile. Topped with airy whipped cream and garnished with chocolate shavings and a touch of mint, this mousse is an elegant choice for dinner parties, festive occasions, or a little indulgence at home.

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Mint Mousse:

• 6 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), finely chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (optional, for infusion)
• 2 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
• 1/2 tsp mint extract

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup chocolate shavings or curls
• Fresh mint leaves
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)
• Crushed peppermint candies (optional)
• Mint-infused chocolate sauce or mint coulis (optional, for plating)**

1. Prepare the Chocolate Mint Base:

• If infusing with fresh mint, heat heavy cream (from the mousse ingredients) with mint leaves in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once it begins to simmer, remove it from the heat, cover, and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain out the mint leaves and allow the infused cream to cool completely.
• Melt the dark chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) or in the microwave in 15-second intervals. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Mousse:

• In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. Slowly stir in the melted chocolate until fully combined. Add the mint extract or cooled mint-infused cream for a subtle, refreshing flavor.
• In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture in thirds, maintaining as much air as possible.
• Finally, fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is smooth and light.

3. Chill the Mousse:

• Spoon the mousse into individual glasses or dessert cups. Smooth the surface and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set.

4. Whip the Cream:

• In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.

5. Assemble the Dessert:

• Remove the mousse from the refrigerator and top each glass with a swirl of whipped cream using a piping bag or spoon.

6. Garnish and Plate:

• Drizzle a thin stream of mint-infused chocolate sauce or mint coulis over the whipped cream. Add chocolate shavings or a chocolate curl for texture. Place a single mint leaf on top for a fresh, aromatic touch.
• Dust the rim of the glass with cocoa powder and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies sparingly around the base for added visual appeal.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
• Infuse the cream with fresh mint for a more natural and subtle mint flavor.
• Chill the mousse long enough to allow it to set fully before adding toppings.

This Chocolate Mint Mousse with Whipped Cream is a dessert that balances indulgence and freshness. With its smooth texture, rich chocolate flavor, and refreshing minty notes, this dessert is the perfect way to end a meal on an elegant note. Serve it at your next gathering or treat yourself to a moment of pure luxury.