Description
Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse is a rich, creamy, and indulgent Mediterranean dessert featuring the smooth blend of Nutella and mascarpone cheese, enhanced with the subtle warmth of hazelnut liqueur and a luscious whipped cocoa cream. Perfect for special occasions and luxurious gatherings, this mousse is simple to prepare yet elegant to serve.
Ingredients
Chocolate Hazelnut Base
- 8 oz Nutella or other chocolate hazelnut spread
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 tablespoon hazelnut liqueur or vanilla extract
Whipped Cocoa Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons Dutch processed cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
Toppings (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts
- Shaved chocolate
Instructions
- Combine Chocolate Base: In a large bowl, mix together the Nutella, mascarpone cheese, and hazelnut liqueur. Whisk at high speed until the mixture is fully combined and fluffy, then place it in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the whipped cream.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, begin whisking the heavy cream at low speed until it just starts to thicken. Increase speed to medium-high until soft peaks form.
- Add Cocoa and Sugar: Add the Dutch processed cocoa powder and confectioners’ sugar to the whipped cream. Whisk at low speed until just incorporated, then increase to high speed and beat until firm peaks hold their shape.
- Combine Mixtures: Remove the Nutella mascarpone mixture from the refrigerator. Add about one quarter of the whipped cocoa cream to it and whisk gently to lighten the mixture.
- Fold in Remaining Cream: Carefully fold in the remaining whipped cream until fully combined and smooth without deflating the mixture.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the mousse into serving cups or bowls. Top with chopped hazelnuts and/or shaved chocolate if desired. Chill until ready to serve.
Notes
- Keep all ingredients and tools cold throughout the process to achieve the best whipped cream texture. Chill bowls and whisks in the freezer for about 15 minutes beforehand.
- Only the Nutella should be at room temperature before mixing to combine smoothly with mascarpone.
- Gently folding the whipped cream ensures a light and airy mousse without overmixing.
- Optional toppings add texture and visual appeal but can be omitted for a smoother mousse.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
