Description
These Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Cups are light, airy, and perfectly balanced with rich dark chocolate and refreshing peppermint. An elegant no-bake dessert that’s make-ahead friendly and guaranteed to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
8 ounces dark chocolate (60-70% cacao), finely chopped
2 cups heavy cream, divided and chilled
3 large eggs, separated and at room temperature
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
Pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Crushed candy canes for garnish
Whipped cream for topping
Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
1. Melt chopped chocolate in double boiler over simmering water, stirring until smooth (115-120°F). Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
2. Whip 1 cup heavy cream to stiff peaks in a chilled bowl. Refrigerate until needed.
3. Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating to glossy stiff peaks.
4. Whisk egg yolks into cooled chocolate until fully combined. Stir in peppermint extract and salt.
5. Gently fold 1/3 of egg whites into chocolate mixture to lighten. Fold in remaining whites carefully.
6. Fold in whipped cream in two additions, maintaining airy texture.
7. Pipe or spoon mousse into serving cups, leaving room for toppings.
8. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
9. Before serving, top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, and chocolate shavings.
Notes
Use room temperature eggs for maximum volume when whipping.
Ensure chocolate cools to room temperature before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
For a safer version during pregnancy, use pasteurized eggs.
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Don’t add candy cane garnish until serving time as they dissolve in moisture.
For keto version, replace sugar with erythritol (use 2 tablespoons).
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mousse cup (approximately 3/4 cup)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: chocolate peppermint mousse, peppermint dessert, no-bake mousse, holiday dessert, chocolate mousse cups