Classic Chocolate Mousse Recipe

Directions

• 1. Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small bowl; let stand for 2 minutes to soften. Add boiling water; stir until gelatin is completely dissolved and mixture is clear. Cool slightly.


2. Mix sugar and cocoa in a large bowl. Add whipping cream and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer, on medium speed, scraping the bottom of the bowl occasionally, until mixture is stiff. Pour in gelatin mixture; beat until well combined.

3. Spoon mixture into dessert dishes. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with whipped cream, toffee bits and/or chocolate pieces.

Makes 8 servings.


Variations:
• Chocolate Mousse Pie: Spoon mousse into a prepared, packaged graham cracker crust. Refrigerate for 3 hours. Garnish with cherry pie filling, if desired. Store covered in the refrigerator. Makes 8 servings.

• Chocolate Mousse Torte: Thaw a frozen pound cake and cut horizontally to make 3 or 4 layers. Place bottom layer on a serving plate; spread with some mousse. Repeat layering. Cover top and sides. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until ready to serve. Garnish as desired. Makes 8 servings.

• Chocolate Mousse Pastry Puffs: Use 2 packages (10 oz/300 g) each frozen puff pastry shells (6 shells per package). Bake shells according to package directions. Spoon mouse into pastry shells; garnish with whipped cream and toffee bits. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until ready to serve. Makes 12 servings.