Chocolate Mousse Cake

Name: Chocolate Mousse Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 270 min
Ingredients: 200 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa); 4 large eggs (separated); 100 g granulated sugar; 1 pinch of salt; 300 ml heavy cream; 50 g unsalted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Cocoa powder (for dusting)

Are you ready to treat yourself to a slice of pure bliss? Chocolate mousse cake is a heavenly dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with a light, airy texture. Perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress everyone at your table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and create a chocolate masterpiece that will leave you craving more!

Ingredients

– 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 100g granulated sugar
– 1 pinch of salt
– 300ml heavy cream
– 50g unsalted butter
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Cocoa powder (for dusting)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 8-10 people. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with a chilling time of 4 hours. Total time is around 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) of chocolate mousse cake contains approximately 350 calories, 25g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. This is based on a standard slice from the entire cake.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a double boiler.
2. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
3. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with half of the sugar until pale and creamy.
4. Stir the melted chocolate mixture into the egg yolk mixture.
5. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with salt until soft peaks form.
6. Gradually add the remaining sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
7. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
8. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture in three additions.
9. Fold the whipped cream into the mixture until well combined.
10. Pour the mixture into a cake pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute dark chocolate with semi-sweet chocolate for a sweeter taste. Additionally, egg substitutes such as flaxseed meal or commercial egg replacers work well for a vegan option, although the texture may differ slightly.

Serving and Pairings

Serve your chocolate mousse cake with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Pair it with a rich coffee or a glass of dessert wine for an elegant touch.

Storage and Reheating

Store the chocolate mousse cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Reheating is not recommended as it may alter the texture.

Cooking Mistakes

Not allowing the chocolate to cool before mixing can cause the eggs to scramble.
Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake instead of a light mousse.
Using cold cream can prevent it from whipping properly.
Skipping the chilling time will result in a runny cake.
Not using high-quality chocolate can affect the flavor significantly.

Helpful Tips

Use a springform pan for easy removal.
Chill the mixing bowls and beaters for better whipped cream.
For added flavor, incorporate a splash of coffee or liqueur into the chocolate mixture.
Dust with cocoa powder just before serving for an elegant finish.

FAQs

Can I make chocolate mousse cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chocolate mousse cake a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.

What type of chocolate is best for mousse cake?

Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content is recommended for a rich flavor.

Can I use milk chocolate instead?

Yes, but it will make the cake sweeter and less intense in flavor. Adjust sugar accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, this chocolate mousse cake is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for various dietary needs.

How do I know when the mousse is set?

The mousse should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when sliced.

Conclusion

Chocolate mousse cake is a delightful dessert that combines elegance with indulgence. Its rich flavors and light texture make it perfect for any occasion, from dinner parties to casual gatherings. With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you can impress your friends and family with this chocolate masterpiece. Enjoy every bite!