Description
Chocolate Mousse Brownies are an indulgent dessert that combines a rich, fudgy brownie base with a light and creamy chocolate mousse topping. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of dense chocolate flavor and airy sweetness—ideal for special occasions or when you’re craving an elevated treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the brownies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the chocolate mousse:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
- Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the brownies: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Stir in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely.
- Make the chocolate mousse: Heat 1/2 cup of the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature. In a separate bowl, whip the remaining 1/2 cup of heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture until light and fluffy.
- Assemble and chill: Spread the chocolate mousse evenly over the cooled brownie base. Refrigerate the assembled brownies for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set properly.
- Serve: Before slicing, garnish with shaved chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder as desired. Slice into 9 squares and serve chilled for optimum flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can prepare the brownies a day ahead and add the mousse the next morning to achieve better layering.
- For extra richness and texture, consider folding chocolate chips or chopped nuts directly into the brownie batter before baking.
