Classic Belgian Chocolate Mousse
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Belgium with this Classic Belgian Chocolate Mousse recipe. This delightful dessert showcases the rich, bittersweet chocolate combined with the deep essence of brewed coffee, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. The light, airy texture is achieved by skillfully folding whipped egg whites and cream into the melted chocolate, resulting in a mousse that's as decadent as it is elegant. While the active preparation time is under 30 minutes, be sure to allow several hours for the mousse to chill and achieve a firm, creamy consistency. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special treat any day!
4
Servings
262.5
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bittersweet chocolate, chopped
5 ounces (Chopped)
Strong brewed coffee
1/4 cup (Brewed strong)
Large egg whites
4 (Separated)
Powdered sugar
2 tablespoons (Sifted)
Whipping cream
1/4 cup (Chilled)
Dark rum
1 teaspoon (Optional, for flavor)
Chocolate shavings
2 ounces (For garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by setting up a double boiler. In the top section, combine the chopped bittersweet chocolate and the brewed coffee. Place over simmering water, stirring occasionally until the chocolate is fully melted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly until it reaches room temperature.
2
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks are achieved.
3
In a separate chilled bowl, beat the whipping cream until soft peaks form.
4
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cooled chocolate mixture, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Once incorporated, slowly fold in the whipped cream and, if desired, the dark rum for added depth of flavor.
5
Carefully spoon the mousse into 4 individual serving glasses or ramekins. Cover each with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
6
Before serving, remove the plastic wrap and garnish each mousse with chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
Nutrition Information
16.25g
Fat
22.5g
Carbs
3.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Belgian Chocolate Mousse?
It is a luxurious and elegant dessert from Belgium that combines bittersweet chocolate with strong brewed coffee and whipped cream for a rich, airy texture.
What type of chocolate is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 5 ounces of chopped bittersweet chocolate.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe is designed to yield 4 individual servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 262.5 calories.
How much fat is in one serving of the chocolate mousse?
There are 16.25 grams of fat per serving.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
The mousse contains 22.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this dessert provide?
Each serving contains 3.5 grams of protein.
Does this recipe include coffee?
Yes, it uses 1/4 cup of strong brewed coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.
How long does it take to prepare?
The active preparation time is less than 30 minutes, though it requires several hours to chill.
How long should the mousse be refrigerated?
The mousse should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours, or until it is firmly set.
How do you achieve the light and airy texture?
The texture is achieved by skillfully folding whipped egg whites and whipped cream into the melted chocolate mixture.
How many egg whites are needed?
The recipe requires 4 large egg whites, separated from the yolks.
What type of sugar is used in the mousse?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of sifted powdered sugar.
Is there alcohol in this Belgian chocolate mousse?
The recipe includes an optional 1 teaspoon of dark rum for added depth of flavor.
How should the whipping cream be prepared?
You should use 1/4 cup of chilled whipping cream and beat it until soft peaks form.
What is the best way to melt the chocolate?
Use a double boiler to melt the chopped chocolate and brewed coffee together over simmering water.
What garnish is recommended for the finish?
The mousse is garnished with 2 ounces of chocolate shavings for an elegant look.
To what peak consistency should the egg whites be beaten?
The egg whites should be beaten until they reach stiff peaks after gradually adding the sugar.
Should the chocolate mixture be hot when adding the eggs?
No, the melted chocolate should be allowed to cool slightly until it reaches room temperature before folding in other ingredients.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy dessert, although care must be taken when folding the mixtures.
How should the mousse be served?
It is best served in individual glasses or ramekins after being properly chilled.
What is the total number of ingredients required?
There are 7 main ingredients: bittersweet chocolate, coffee, egg whites, powdered sugar, whipping cream, dark rum, and chocolate shavings.
How do you prevent the mousse from deflating?
Gently fold the whipped egg whites and cream into the chocolate rather than stirring vigorously.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
While bittersweet is recommended for the classic flavor, the technique remains the same for other high-quality chocolates.
Is the dark rum mandatory?
No, the dark rum is optional and can be omitted based on personal preference.
What tools are needed for the egg whites?
An electric mixer is recommended to achieve the proper soft and stiff peaks.
Does the recipe contain fiber or cholesterol?
The provided nutritional data indicates that fiber and cholesterol values are not specified.
How should the ramekins be stored while chilling?
Each serving glass or ramekin should be covered with plastic wrap before being placed in the refrigerator.
What flavor profile can I expect?
Expect a rich, decadent chocolate flavor balanced by the bitterness of coffee and a subtle hint of rum.
What makes this a 'Belgian' style mousse?
The use of high-quality bittersweet chocolate and the inclusion of strong coffee are hallmarks of Belgian dessert traditions.