This quick and easy Chocolate Mousse Recipe Without Cream, is light and airy, and is perfect for whipping up a rich and velvety chilled chocolate dessert in a hurry.
Now while this recipe doesn’t rely on cream for it’s smooth texture, it’s not completely dairy-free. The melted chocolate is dairy based, but you could try using vegan chocolate if you like.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamless Chocolate Mousse Recipe
This recipe requires only 4 ingredients, and the steps are simple, but it does take a bit of care to get the perfect airy mousse texture.
Despite the simplicity, the mousse promises a rich and indulgent chocolate flavor that is so satisfying.
It’s the ideal make-ahead chilled dessert to prepare in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Chocolate chips: Use high-quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for the best flavor. You can substitute dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate based on your preference.
Eggs: Fresh eggs work best for achieving the desired texture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar not only adds sweetness, but it also helps with the stability of the mousse. Alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup, won’t yield the same result, but it’ll be very similar.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the chocolatiness of the mousse. You can omit it if you want.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall outcome. Other extracts like almond, mint, or orange can be used for a different flavor profile.
How To Make No Cream Chocolate Mousse: Step by step
Step 1: Melt Chocolate
Gently melt chocolate chips until smooth, either using a double boiler or the microwave.
Step 2: Prepare Egg Yolks
In a large bowl, beat egg yolks and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Combine Chocolate & Yolk Mixture
Add the melted chocolate to the egg yolk mixture, stirring until well combined.
Step 4: Whip Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
Step 5: Fold Egg Whites into Chocolate Mixture
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture until evenly incorporated, avoiding deflating the egg whites.
Step 6: Add Vanilla Extract & Chill
Incorporate vanilla extract into the mixture, enhancing the overall flavor.
Pour the mousse mixture into individual serving dishes and refrigerate until set, usually for at least 2 hours.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Quality chocolate matters: Use high-quality chocolate for a rich, decadent chocolate mousse. Choose chocolate chips or bars with a cocoa content you enjoy.
Room temperature eggs: Room temperature eggs whip up better and contribute to a smoother mousse.
Careful chocolate melting: Melt the chocolate gently to avoid burning or seizing. Stir frequently if using a microwave, or use a low heat setting if using a double boiler.
Fluffy egg whites: Ensure no traces of egg yolk are present, as this can hinder proper whipping.
Gentle folding technique: When combining the egg whites with the chocolate mixture, fold gently to maintain the mousse’s light and airy texture.
Chill thoroughly: Allow sufficient time for the mousse to set properly in the refrigerator.
Serve in individual portions: Present the mousse in individual serving dishes for an elegant touch. It also simplifies serving, especially for gatherings.
Storage
Store the chocolate mousse without cream in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the mousse in a sealed container for up to 1 month.
When ready to serve, thaw the frozen mousse in the refrigerator overnight and whisk it briefly before enjoying.
Chocolate Mousse Recipe Without Cream FAQs
Yes, you can use any type of chocolate you prefer. However, the sweetness and richness of the mousse will depend on the type of chocolate you choose.
Yes, you can make the mousse up to 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it is best to wait to garnish the mousse until just before serving.
Yes, you can add other flavors such as coffee, orange, or mint extract to the mousse for a different twist on the classic chocolate flavor.
No, eggs are a crucial ingredient in this recipe for creating the light and airy texture of the mousse. There are other recipes for chocolate mousse that do not use eggs if you have an egg allergy or sensitivity.
Go ahead and make this delicious treat, and let me know what you think!
Quick Chocolate Mousse Recipe Without Cream
Ingredients
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 3 eggs separated
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the melted chocolate to the egg yolk mixture and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into individual serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream and/or fresh berries if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious and easy chocolate mousse without cream!