Mini chocolate mousse cake

Mini chocolate mousse cake - a decadent delight

We present you a recipe for mini chocolate mousse cake, an elegant and refined dessert, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on weekends. This cake with layers of moist sponge and chocolate mousse is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, and each bite will bring a smile to your face. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:

For the sponge:
- 5 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 150 g flour

For the chocolate mousse:
- 300 ml heavy cream (well whipped)
- 3 whole eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 200 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)

For the syrup:
- 50 g sugar (for caramelizing)
- 100 ml water
- 2 tablespoons chocolate liqueur (optional, for adults)

For decoration:
- Grated chocolate, berries, or mint leaves (as desired)

Step by step: Preparing the sponge

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal texture. Separate the eggs, ensuring no yolk remains in the whites.

2. Beat the yolks with sugar: In a large bowl, add the yolks and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on high speed until it becomes a light-colored, fluffy cream, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Incorporate the flour: Sifting the flour, gradually add it to the yolk mixture, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon, using gentle up-and-down motions to avoid losing air in the composition.

4. Beat the egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they become white and firm. This is the key to a fluffy sponge. Carefully fold them into the yolk mixture, mixing gently.

5. Bake the sponge: Line a baking tray with butter and flour, then pour in the prepared mixture. Place the tray in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 25 minutes. Check if it is baked using the toothpick method – if it comes out clean, the sponge is ready.

6. Cool and cut: Let the sponge cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then turn it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Use a metal ring to cut circles from the sponge.

Preparing the chocolate mousse

1. Melt the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, place the chopped dark chocolate and set it over a pot of hot water (double boiler). Stir until the chocolate is completely melted. Let it cool slightly.

2. Beat the eggs with sugar: In another bowl, combine the whole eggs with sugar and beat until fluffy and light in color.

3. Combine chocolate with eggs: When the chocolate has cooled, carefully fold it into the egg mixture, mixing gently to avoid losing air.

4. Add the cream: Finally, fold in the whipped cream, using the same gentle mixing technique. Your mousse should be creamy and airy.

Caramel syrup

1. Caramelize the sugar: In a small saucepan, melt the sugar until it turns golden. Carefully add water and stir until completely dissolved. Then, add the chocolate liqueur (if using) and let it cool.

Assembling the cake

1. Soak the sponge: Place the first sponge circle on a platter or in the metal ring. Use a brush or spoon to apply the caramel syrup over the entire surface.

2. Add the mousse: Place a generous portion of chocolate mousse over the soaked sponge, smoothing it with a spatula.

3. The sponge layer: Repeat the process with the second sponge circle, soaking again. Add the remaining mousse and smooth the surface.

4. Decorate the cake: Let the mini cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. Once cooled, decorate it according to your imagination! You can use grated chocolate, fresh berries, or mint leaves for an elegant look.

Chef's tip: A personal trick I use is to add a little vanilla extract to the mousse for an extra flavor boost. Also, if you want a more intense chocolate taste, you can add a pinch of salt to the melted chocolate.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but keep in mind that the mousse will be sweeter and have a different texture.

2. How can I make the mousse lighter?
You can replace some of the chocolate with cocoa powder, but the mousse will be less rich in flavor.

3. What other variations can I try?
You can add fruit puree (such as raspberry or mango) to the mousse to create a unique flavor combination.

Perfect pairings: This mini chocolate mousse cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of black coffee or a glass of sweet wine. It is also delicious alongside vanilla ice cream or a serving of fresh fruit.

Nutritional benefits: This dessert is rich in antioxidants from dark chocolate, which can contribute to heart health. Additionally, it contains protein from eggs, and the cream adds a touch of calcium.

In conclusion, this mini chocolate mousse cake is a quick and simple dessert, yet exceptionally tasty and visually appealing. Regardless of the occasion, it is sure to leave a pleasant impression. So, put on your chef's gloves and get ready to surprise your family and friends with this delight! Enjoy!