Julia Child's Chocolate Mousse

Indulge in the decadence of *Julia Child's Chocolate Mousse*, a timeless dessert that combines rich, velvety chocolate with sophisticated flavors. This classic French mousse is made with semi-sweet chocolate, creamy unsalted butter, and a splash of brewed coffee for depth, while a hint of orange liqueur adds a citrusy elegance. The airy texture is achieved by carefully folding whipped cream and stiffly beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture, creating a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth treat. With just a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and optional garnishes like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dessert perfect for dinner parties or special occasions. Ready in under 40 minutes but best served chilled after setting, this chocolate mousse is a true masterpiece of French cuisine that’s sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 44/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 170 grams Semi-sweet chocolate
• 113 grams Unsalted butter
• 30 milliliters Brewed coffee
• 4 large Egg yolks
• 100 grams Sugar
• 30 milliliters Orange liqueur (e.g., Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
• 4 large Egg whites
• 1 pinch Salt
• 120 milliliters Heavy cream
• 0 Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries

Directions

Step 1

Chop the semi-sweet chocolate into small pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl.

Step 2

Melt the chocolate along with the unsalted butter and brewed coffee over a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water). Stir until smooth and completely melted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3

In another heatproof bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and thick. Place this bowl over the simmering water and continue whisking for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is warm to the touch and slightly thickened. Remove from heat.

Step 4

Stir the orange liqueur into the egg yolk mixture and then gently fold this into the melted chocolate mixture until smooth and fully incorporated. Set aside.

Step 5

In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add a tablespoon of sugar (reserved from the 100 grams) while beating, and continue until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Step 6

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it holds soft peaks.

Step 7

Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until combined. Then, carefully fold in the beaten egg whites in thirds, being mindful not to deflate the mousse.

Step 8

Spoon the mousse into individual serving bowls or glasses, or into a large serving dish, and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 9

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.

Step 10

Serve chilled, optionally garnished with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(778.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2978.8

Total Fat 214.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 120.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 1118.2mg	0%
Sodium 483.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 220.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.1g	0%
Total Sugars 198.1g
Protein 38.2g	0%

Vitamin D 73.2IU	0%
Calcium 258.1mg	0%
Iron 11.1mg	0%
Potassium 1250.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 65.2%

Protein: 5.1%

Carbs: 29.7%