Chocolate Peppermint Mousse

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If you’re dreaming of a dessert that captures the cozy magic of winter while still feeling light and luxurious, then Chocolate Peppermint Mousse is exactly what you need. This elegant treat combines rich, velvety chocolate with the cool brightness of peppermint, all wrapped up in a cloud-like texture that melts on your tongue. It’s festive enough for holiday gatherings yet easy enough to make just because.

One spoonful is like a cozy night by the fire in dessert form. Whether you’re topping it with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or a drizzle of hot fudge, this mousse is a show-stopper with minimal effort. Make it ahead and impress your guests or sneak a serving from the fridge when nobody’s looking.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Mousse

This mousse isn’t just rich and creamy; it’s refreshing too. The hint of peppermint keeps it from feeling too heavy, and the airy texture makes it irresistibly spoonable. It’s a naturally gluten-free dessert, and because it needs chill time, it’s perfect for making ahead. Serve it in elegant glasses, ramekins, or even little jars for a charming presentation.

Can I Use Peppermint Extract or Candy Canes?

Yes, and both serve a purpose! Peppermint extract offers a clean, intense flavor without altering the texture, while crushed candy canes bring texture and an extra holiday sparkle. If you love crunch, add the candy. If you’re a smooth mousse fan, stick with the extract. Or go all in and use both—it’s your dessert, your rules!

Ingredients for the Chocolate Peppermint Mousse

This mousse keeps things simple while delivering bold flavor. Each ingredient serves a delicious purpose in creating that perfect spoonful.

Heavy Whipping Cream gives the mousse its luxurious lightness. You’ll be whipping this to soft peaks to fold into the chocolate.

Bittersweet Chocolate adds that deep, rich base. Go for high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Egg Yolks add creaminess and help create a velvety texture. Gently cooked, they enrich without overpowering.

Granulated Sugar sweetens things just right and helps the egg yolks become smooth when whisked.

Peppermint Extract gives the mousse that refreshing, cool minty twist. A little goes a long way.

Salt enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.

Crushed Candy Canes (optional) add a festive crunch and pop of color if you want a fun topping.

How To Make the Chocolate Peppermint Mousse

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Chop the bittersweet chocolate into small pieces and melt it in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir gently until smooth, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Whisk the Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar and a pinch of salt over simmering water until pale and slightly thickened. This gently cooks them for safety and richness.

Step 3: Combine Chocolate and Yolks

Slowly whisk the melted chocolate into the egg yolk mixture. Add the peppermint extract and stir until smooth. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks in a chilled bowl. Don’t overwhip; you want it light and airy.

Step 5: Fold and Chill

Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture in batches. Fold until fully combined with no streaks. Spoon the mousse into serving glasses and chill for at least 2 hours, or until set.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, top with extra whipped cream and crushed candy canes if desired. Enjoy immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Serving and Storing Chocolate Peppermint Mousse

This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings depending on the size of your glasses or ramekins. Serve it straight from the fridge for the best texture. You can make it a day ahead, which makes it a dream for entertaining.

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as it can mess with the mousse’s airy texture.

What to Serve With Chocolate Peppermint Mousse?

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or pomegranate seeds give a bright contrast and pop of color.

Espresso or Coffee

A hot espresso alongside mousse is pure bliss. The bitterness complements the sweetness beautifully.

Chocolate Shavings

Grate a bit of dark chocolate on top for an extra layer of decadence.

Whipped Cream

Homemade whipped cream adds an extra luxurious layer. Try a mint-infused version for a flavor boost.

Shortbread Cookies

Serve on the side or crumble a few into the mousse for a buttery crunch.

Mini Candy Canes

Hook one on the rim of each glass for a playful holiday look.

Peppermint Bark

Crush it up and sprinkle it on top. It adds texture and deepens that peppermint flavor.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you’re into festive and comforting desserts like this, you might also fall in love with these other sweet favorites:

• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons for a chewy, tropical treat.
• Ooey Gooey Bars when you’re craving something rich and sticky-sweet.
• Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a bite-sized, fruity twist on cheesecake.
• Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler to enjoy warm, baked nostalgia.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for a combo of spice and creaminess in one cute cup.

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Let me know how your mousse turns out! Did you go full mint with the candy canes? Or did you keep it silky and smooth? I’d love to hear your take or help with any tweaks.

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