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The BEST Chocolate Mousse Cups Recipe

This Chocolate Mousse Cups recipe is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. Featuring a velvety-smooth chocolate mousse inside a crisp chocolate shell, it’s an elegant treat perfect for special occasions or indulgent moments. Topped with whipped cream and berries, these mousse cups are as beautiful as they are delicious. Simple to make and utterly irresistible, they’re sure to be a favorite!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

For the Chocolate Cups:

  • 8 ounces semisweet or dark chocolate chopped
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil optional, for a shinier finish

For the Chocolate Mousse:

  • 6 ounces semisweet or dark chocolate chopped
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder optional, enhances chocolate flavor
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Fresh berries
  • Caramel or chocolate drizzle

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cups

  • Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate and coconut oil (if using) in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
  • Coat the molds: Using a spoon or pastry brush, coat the inside of silicone muffin molds or paper cupcake liners with a thick layer of melted chocolate.
  • Chill: Place the coated molds in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to set.
  • Add another layer: Repeat the coating process with another layer of chocolate to ensure the cups are sturdy. Refrigerate for another 15 minutes.
  • Remove the cups: Once set, carefully peel away the silicone mold or paper liners and keep the chocolate cups chilled until ready to fill.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Mousse

  • Melt the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate, espresso powder, and butter over a double boiler or in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
  • Prepare the egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Temper the eggs: Slowly whisk a few spoonfuls of the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture to temper it. Then, combine the tempered eggs with the remaining chocolate mixture.
  • Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip 3/4 cup of the heavy cream with the salt until soft peaks form.
  • Fold the cream into the chocolate: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture in batches, being careful not to deflate the mousse.
  • Chill the mousse: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mousse to firm up slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Chocolate Mousse Cups

  • Fill the cups: Spoon or pipe the chocolate mousse into the prepared chocolate cups.
  • Garnish: Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, berries, or any desired toppings.
  • Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
  • Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to keep the mousse light and airy.
  • If your chocolate cups crack, use a little melted chocolate as “glue” to fix them.
  • For a stronger chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher).
  • These mousse cups can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.