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Chocolate Mousse Brownies Recipe

4.4 from 59 reviews

Indulge in rich and decadent Chocolate Mousse Brownies featuring a fudgy brownie base layered with airy chocolate mousse and topped with a silky ganache. This elegant dessert combines multiple textures and intense chocolate flavors, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.

Ingredients

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For the Brownie Base:

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder

For the Chocolate Mousse:

  • 1 1/2 cups (350ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 8 oz (225g) semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) milk
  • 2 tbsp (25g) powdered sugar

For the Ganache Topping:

  • 4 oz (115g) semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift out the brownies later.
  2. Make the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until no streaks remain; be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
  4. Bake the Brownie Layer: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Let the brownie base cool completely in the pan.
  5. Make the Mousse Base: Warm the milk in a small saucepan over low heat until just steaming. Pour it over the chopped semisweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl and let sit undisturbed for 2 minutes. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
  6. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, beat the chilled heavy whipping cream together with powdered sugar until soft peaks form, which means the cream holds a gentle tip when the beaters are lifted.
  7. Fold to Combine: To loosen the cooled chocolate mixture, stir in a spoonful of the whipped cream. Then gently fold the remaining whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully blended and airy—take care not to deflate the mousse to keep it light and fluffy.
  8. Assemble Mousse Layer: Spread the chocolate mousse evenly over the cooled brownie base with a spatula. Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours, or until the mousse layer is firmly set.
  9. Make the Ganache: Place the chopped semisweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy.
  10. Add Ganache Topping: Pour the ganache over the chilled mousse layer and smooth the surface with an offset spatula for an even finish. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 1 hour, or until the ganache is firm.
  11. Slice and Serve: Once fully set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the dessert out of the pan. Slice into squares with a clean, sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for neat edges. Enjoy your luscious chocolate mousse brownies!

Notes

  • If the melted chocolate cools too much before folding, it can seize or stiffen. To avoid this, stir a small amount of whipped cream into the chocolate first to loosen it before folding in the rest gently.
  • Store leftover brownies covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.
  • For clean, smooth slices, run your knife under hot water and dry it before each cut to prevent sticking.

Keywords: Chocolate mousse brownies, chocolate dessert, layered brownies, chocolate ganache, easy chocolate mousse, rich brownies, no-bake mousse