If you are looking for a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between indulgent richness and a touch of sophisticated flair, this Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse Recipe is exactly what you need. Velvety smooth chocolate mousse meets luscious homemade salted caramel, creating layers of flavor that will captivate your taste buds with every spoonful. This recipe is delightfully simple yet incredibly impressive, making it a favorite to whip up for guests or as a special treat for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse Recipe calls for just a handful of essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the flawless texture and extraordinary taste that this dessert is known for. From the buttery richness of salted caramel to the deep intensity of dark chocolate, every component is a star on its own, yet together they create absolute magic.
- Granulated sugar (100 g): The base for your caramel, melt it slowly to develop that perfect golden color and rich flavor.
- Butter (30 g): Adds creaminess and depth to the caramel sauce.
- Sea salt (a pinch): Enhances the sweetness and brings out the complexity of the caramel.
- Double cream (200 ml): Essential for making the mousse rich and luxuriously smooth.
- Dark chocolate (100 g): Choose high-quality for a deep, intense chocolate flavor that shines through.
- Large eggs (3, separated yolks and whites): Create the light, airy mousse texture; make sure to whisk whites properly for the fluffiest finish.
How to Make Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Step 1: Craft the Perfect Caramel
Start by gently dissolving granulated sugar in a saucepan over low heat. Patience is key here; avoid stirring to prevent crystallization. Watch closely as the syrup thickens and colors around the edges—this signals the beginning of caramelization. Gently swirl the pan instead of stirring to ensure even cooking. Once the syrup reaches a deep amber, remove it from heat promptly to avoid burning, then stir in the butter and sea salt to create that signature salted caramel brilliance.
Step 2: Combine Cream and Caramel
In a separate pan, bring the double cream just to a boil before slowly pouring it into the caramel mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly, dissolving all caramel bits into the cream for a smooth, luxurious sauce that will infuse every bite with silky richness.
Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Incorporate Egg Yolks
Break the dark chocolate into small chunks and add it to the warm caramel cream mixture. Stir constantly until the chocolate melts completely and blends smoothly. Next, add the separated egg yolks and mix them in well to create a rich, velvety base for your mousse.
Step 4: Whip and Fold Egg Whites
Whisk the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until firm peaks form but avoid over-whipping to maintain slight softness. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate caramel mixture in batches to keep the airiness intact, which is the secret to that perfect mousse texture. Once combined, divide the mousse evenly among six serving dishes and refrigerate for at least five hours to set beautifully.
How to Serve Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a thoughtful garnish can elevate this dessert to a whole new level of elegance. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or some crushed caramel shards on top to highlight the salted caramel flavor. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, bring a bright contrast while a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few curls of dark chocolate will add a touch of drama.
Side Dishes
This Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse Recipe pairs wonderfully with a light, refreshing side like a crisp fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream infused with a hint of vanilla. For a cozy twist, serve alongside a cup of strong coffee or a glass of dessert wine to bring out the deep flavors of the chocolate and caramel.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the classic serving dishes—consider serving your mousse in elegant glasses or small mason jars for a rustic charm. Layering with crushed biscuits or a thin drizzle of extra caramel sauce between layers can add texture and surprise with every bite. Garnishing with edible gold flakes also adds a festive, luxurious touch perfect for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover mousse covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping it chilled not only preserves the texture but also deepens the flavors, so leftovers are definitely a treat worth saving for the next day.
Freezing
While freezing chocolate mousse can sometimes affect its delicate texture, this Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Use airtight containers and freeze for up to one month. To enjoy, defrost overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled and is not intended to be reheated. Simply take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving if you prefer it slightly less cold, allowing the flavors to soften and shine.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give the mousse a sweeter, creamier profile, but keep in mind it will be less intense than dark chocolate. Adjust the salt slightly to keep the balance delightful.
Is it safe to use raw eggs in this mousse?
This recipe uses raw eggs, so it’s best to use the freshest eggs possible or pasteurized eggs if available, especially if serving to children, pregnant individuals, or anyone with a weakened immune system.
Can I make this mousse vegan or dairy-free?
Substituting with coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate can work, but replicating the airy texture may require some experimentation with plant-based egg replacers or aquafaba.
How long does the mousse need to chill before serving?
For the perfect set and texture, allow the mousse to chill in the refrigerator for at least five hours, though overnight chilling enhances the flavor melding beautifully.
Can I double the recipe for more servings?
Yes, this recipe scales nicely. Just ensure you use a larger mixing bowl and suitable containers for chilling, keeping proportions the same for consistent results.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved classic in my kitchen. It’s the kind of dessert that feels luxuriously decadent yet is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for any occasion that calls for a little extra sweetness. Grab those simple ingredients, follow the steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert to impress everyone around your table.
Print
Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This salted caramel and chocolate mousse is a wonderfully rich and creamy dessert that combines the deep flavors of homemade salted caramel with smooth dark chocolate mousse. Easy to prepare ahead of time, this elegant treat is perfect for impressing guests, offering a luxurious texture and a perfect balance of sweet and salty notes served chilled.
Ingredients
Salted Caramel
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 30 g butter
- 1 pinch sea salt
Mousse
- 200 ml double cream
- 100 g dark chocolate
- 3 large eggs (yolk & white separated)
Instructions
- Make the caramel: Place the granulated sugar in a saucepan over low heat and gently dissolve, allowing it to slowly simmer without stirring to prevent crystallization. This careful process ensures the sugar melts evenly to form a smooth syrup.
- Develop the caramel color: As the syrup starts to color around the edges, gently swirl the pan to cook the caramel evenly without stirring. Wait until it reaches a deep amber color, careful not to burn it, then remove from heat.
- Add butter and salt: Stir the butter and sea salt into the caramel until fully incorporated, creating a rich, salted caramel base.
- Combine cream and caramel: Heat the double cream in a separate pan until it just comes to a boil, then pour it into the caramel mixture, stirring continuously until the caramel dissolves completely into the warm cream.
- Melt chocolate and add egg yolks: Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and stir into the warm caramel cream mixture until melted and smooth. Then whisk in the egg yolks thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Whip egg whites: In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites until firm but not stiff peaks form, providing a light, airy texture to the mousse.
- Fold egg whites into chocolate mixture: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate caramel mixture to retain the mousse’s lightness, then divide the mousse evenly into six serving dishes.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the mousse for at least 5 hours to set before serving chilled, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
Notes
- Do not stir the sugar as it melts to avoid crystallization.
- Swirling the pan instead of stirring helps create even caramelization.
- Be careful not to burn the caramel; a deep amber color is ideal.
- Use a clean bowl for whipping egg whites to achieve firm peaks.
- Chilling the mousse for at least 5 hours ensures the best texture and flavor.
- For food safety, ensure eggs are fresh or consider pasteurized eggs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
