why make this recipe
These Chocolate Mousse Brownies mix a rich brownie with a light chocolate mousse on top. You get a fudgy bite and a soft cream layer. This recipe is simple and is great for a small gathering or a quiet treat. If you like other chocolate pairings, you might also enjoy learning about Earl Grey and chocolate pairing to serve with the brownies.
introduction
This recipe uses common pantry items and a quick mousse made from cream and chopped chocolate. You do not need special tools. The steps are clear and you can make it in about 2 hours including cooling time. If you want other dessert ideas to serve after these brownies, try the pistachio white chocolate cheesecake for variety.
how to make Chocolate Mousse Brownies
Make the brownie base first, let it cool, then prepare the mousse and spread it on top. Work in this order: mix dry and wet ingredients for the brownies, bake, cool, heat cream and pour over chopped chocolate, whip once cool, then chill until set. For a crunchy add-in you can sprinkle chopped pretzels or follow a similar idea from white chocolate pretzel recipes.
Ingredients :
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped, 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together cocoa powder, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in flour and salt until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Let the brownies cool completely.
- For the mousse, heat heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.
- Whip the mixture with powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Spread the mousse over the cooled brownies and refrigerate until set, about 1-2 hours.
- Cut into squares and serve.
how to serve Chocolate Mousse Brownies
Cut into small squares and serve chilled or at cool room temperature. Add a dusting of cocoa or powdered sugar on top. Serve with plain coffee, tea, or a small scoop of ice cream. For a nutty side, try a bowl of chocolate-covered nuts like the slow-cooker version at slow cooker chocolate covered nuts.
how to store Chocolate Mousse Brownies
Keep the brownies in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer box for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
tips to make Chocolate Mousse Brownies
- Use good quality semisweet chocolate for the mousse for better flavor.
- Do not skip the cooling step before adding mousse, or the mousse will melt into the brownies.
- Chill the mousse until firm; 1-2 hours in the fridge usually works.
- If you want a small crunchy touch, add chopped nuts or crushed pretzels on top after spreading the mousse — see ideas from Earl Grey and chocolate pairing for pairing ideas.
Serving Ideas (if any)
- Serve with plain whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Add fresh berries on the side for a tart contrast.
- Offer small coffee cups or tea for a simple dessert course.
Final Thoughts
This recipe gives you a rich brownie with a light, airy mousse. It is easy to follow and uses familiar ingredients. Make it a day ahead to save time and let the mousse set well.
FAQs
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?
A: Yes, but the mousse will be sweeter and less deep in cocoa flavor.
Q: Can I make the brownies gluten-free?
A: Yes. Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Q: Do I have to chill the mousse layer?
A: Yes. Chilling helps the mousse set and makes it easier to cut neat squares.
Q: Can I make the mousse without powdered sugar?
A: You can, but powdered sugar helps stabilize and sweeten the mousse. You could use a bit of honey or regular sugar, but the texture may change.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger pan?
A: Yes. For a larger pan, increase baking time slightly and watch for a mostly clean toothpick.
Conclusion
For another take on chocolate mousse brownies, you can compare this version to the recipe at a Chocolate Mousse Brownies post on The Domestic Rebel. You can also see a similar layered approach in this Chocolate Mousse Brownies recipe at Love and Olive Oil.