Chocolate mousse with mascarpone

The dessert we will prepare today is a true delight for chocolate lovers: a chocolate mousse with mascarpone, featuring a smooth texture and refined taste that will make you fall in love at first bite. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a quiet evening at home.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 250 g Delaco Mascarpone
- 150 g dark chocolate (80% cocoa)
- 100 g brown sugar
- 30 g cocoa powder
- 200 ml fresh milk
- Crunchy biscuits (preferably digestive or speculoos)
- Fresh fruits for decoration (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)

A bit of history

Chocolate mousse has its origins in France but has evolved over the years, becoming a symbol of refinement and elegance in desserts. The word "mousse" means "foam" in French, reflecting the airy texture of this dessert. The addition of mascarpone cheese, an Italian ingredient, brings a creaminess that further enriches this delight.

Preparing the chocolate mousse with mascarpone

Step 1: Melting the chocolate

Start by melting the dark chocolate. Melt the chocolate using a double boiler, meaning place a pot of water on the heat and above it another pot with the chocolate. Make sure the water does not touch the upper pot and stir the chocolate occasionally for even melting. Once the chocolate is completely melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the mixture

In a separate pot, add the milk, brown sugar, and cocoa powder. Place the mixture over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. It is important not to let the milk boil, just warm enough to combine the ingredients.

Step 3: Combining the ingredients

When the milk mixture is well combined, add the melted chocolate (which should be warm, not hot) and mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Once the mixture has cooled, add the mascarpone cheese. Use a hand mixer or spatula to combine these ingredients and obtain a smooth cream.

Step 4: Assembling the dessert

For an elegant appearance, use glasses of different shapes to layer the mousse. Start by lining the bottom of each glass with 3-4 crunchy biscuits, broken into suitable pieces. This layer of biscuits will add a pleasant crunchy texture that contrasts with the smooth chocolate cream.

Carefully add the chocolate mousse with mascarpone cream into the glasses, filling them about 3/4 full. Cover each glass with plastic wrap and let the dessert chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour, to firm up and meld the flavors.

Step 5: Decorating and serving

After the mousse has chilled, you can garnish it with fresh fruits. Use pieces of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, which not only look splendid but also add a touch of freshness. This dessert is served cold, making it perfect for warm days or as a treat after a special dinner.

Helpful tips

- Chocolate: Choose chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for an intense flavor. If you prefer a less bitter mousse, you can opt for chocolate with a lower cocoa percentage.
- Sugar: Brown sugar adds a caramelized note to the mousse. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the sugar amount or use a natural sweetener.
- Mascarpone cheese: Ensure the cheese is at room temperature for better incorporation into the mixture.
- Biscuits: You can experiment with different types of biscuits. Cocoa biscuits add extra flavor, while butter biscuits provide a crunchy texture.
- Variations: You can add coffee or vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, you can replace part of the milk with cream for an even creamier mousse.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This chocolate mousse with mascarpone recipe offers a mix of nutrients, thanks to the quality ingredients. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, and mascarpone cheese provides healthy fats and proteins. When consumed in moderation, this dessert can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use white chocolate?
Yes, you can use white chocolate, but you will need to adjust the sugar amount, as white chocolate is sweeter.

2. How can I make the mousse airier?
You can whip cream and gently fold it into the chocolate mixture to achieve a lighter texture.

3. Is it a vegetarian recipe?
Yes, this mousse is vegetarian, but it is not vegan due to the mascarpone cheese and chocolate.

Serving suggestions

The chocolate mousse with mascarpone pairs perfectly with an espresso coffee or a sweet wine, such as a dessert wine. You can also add a caramel sauce or a fruit sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

In conclusion, the chocolate mousse with mascarpone is a simple yet spectacular recipe that will make you feel like a true chef in your own kitchen. With every spoonful, you will savor not only the taste but also the joy of having created something with your own hands. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and indulge in a decadent dessert that will delight both you and your loved ones!