Introduction

Chocolate Peppermint Mousse is a festive and elegant dessert that combines rich, velvety chocolate with the cool brightness of peppermint. It’s light, airy, and perfect for holiday celebrations or any time you want a special treat. Ready in just over two hours including chilling, it’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

Two clear glass dessert cups each hold a thick, smooth layer of rich brown chocolate mousse filling most of the cups. On top, there is a fluffy white whipped cream swirl sprinkled with small pieces of red and white crushed peppermint candy. A fresh green mint leaf garnish stands out on the whipped cream of the front cup. The cups sit on a white marbled surface with scattered peppermint bits around them. Two old silver spoons rest on a folded red cloth nearby. The background is softly blurred with warm light spots. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
3 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (optional, for garnish)
Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Melt over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Allow to cool slightly, then stir in the peppermint extract.
Step 2: Beat the egg whites in a clean bowl with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, being careful not to overwhip.
Step 4: Whisk the egg yolks in another bowl until pale. Gradually add the cooled chocolate mixture and combine well.
Step 5: Gently fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until no streaks remain.
Step 6: Fold the whipped cream into the mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 7: Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Step 8: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, chocolate shavings, or fresh mint leaves as desired.

Tips & Variations

Use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) for a richer flavor and less sugar.
Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream to make a dairy-free version.
For safety, use pasteurized eggs or egg substitutes if concerned about raw eggs.
Fold ingredients gently to maintain the mousse’s light and airy texture.
Avoid overwhipping the cream to prevent it from turning into butter.

Storage

Store Chocolate Peppermint Mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it well covered to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other odors. When ready to enjoy leftovers, serve chilled or allow to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture.

How to Serve

Two clear glass dessert cups each have two visible layers: a thick, smooth dark brown chocolate mousse filling the bottom and most of the cup, topped with a swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled with red and white crushed peppermint candy pieces, and finished with a fresh green mint leaf on top. The cups are placed on a white marbled surface with scattered peppermint pieces around them, next to a red cloth and two vintage silver spoons. The background is softly blurred with warm light spots. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mousse a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different flavor instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! Swap the peppermint extract with vanilla or orange extract to create a different flavor profile.

Is there a way to make it gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

What can I do if I have leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 days for best quality.