If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both luxuriously creamy and delightfully light, White Chocolate Mousse is about to become your new go-to treat. This recipe combines silky white chocolate with pillowy whipped cream to create an indulgence that feels both fancy and totally effortless. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to sweeten an ordinary day, White Chocolate Mousse will absolutely steal the show (and maybe some hearts, too!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
White Chocolate Mousse shines with just a handful of ingredients, but each one is absolutely essential—their simplicity is the secret to the dessert’s pure flavor and luscious texture. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need, along with a quick tip for each component:
- White chocolate (8 ounces, finely chopped): Choose a high-quality bar for the silkiest texture and richest flavor—this is the star of the show!
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a glossy finish and amplifies the creamy mouthfeel.
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups, divided): Whipped in stages for that signature airy mousse structure.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the floral sweetness of the white chocolate.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch wakes up all the flavors and keeps your mousse from tasting flat.
- Fresh berries or shaved white chocolate (for garnish, optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness—totally optional, but so pretty.
How to Make White Chocolate Mousse
Step 1: Melt the White Chocolate and Butter
Start by placing your chopped white chocolate and butter into a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water—just make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir patiently until everything is melted and silky smooth. Take the bowl off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. This pause is important so your mousse stays perfectly fluffy later on!
Step 2: Whip the First Batch of Cream
In a mixing bowl, pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and whip it until soft peaks form. You’re aiming for a billowy, cloud-like texture—smooth and not too stiff, but holding its shape. This whipped cream is the base layer that lightens your melted white chocolate mixture.
Step 3: Fold Whipped Cream into Chocolate Mixture
Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled white chocolate and butter mixture. Use a spatula and a light hand to keep all that precious air inside—this step is what gives White Chocolate Mousse its signature airy quality. Stir just until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 4: Whip the Remaining Cream with Vanilla and Salt
In a fresh bowl, whip up the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream, this time adding the vanilla extract and salt as you go. Keep whisking until stiff peaks hold—a little firmer than before, but still smooth and luxurious. The vanilla and salt elevate the mousse, making each bite sing with flavor.
Step 5: Gently Combine and Chill
Fold the vanilla-scented whipped cream into the mousse base in batches. Be gentle and patient, working in stages to keep everything fluffy and light. Once everything is smooth and homogenous, spoon the mousse into your favorite glasses or bowls. Cover the servings and refrigerate for at least two hours, until your White Chocolate Mousse is set and refreshingly cool.
How to Serve White Chocolate Mousse
Garnishes
The sky’s the limit when it comes to finishing touches! A handful of fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries adds juicy brightness, while a sprinkle of shaved white chocolate gives an elegant snowy look. You can even dust with a little powdered sugar or add a tiny mint leaf for a picture-perfect moment.
Side Dishes
White Chocolate Mousse is sensational on its own, but if you’re feeling extra, pair it with crisp almond biscotti, buttery shortbread cookies, or a tangy fruit coulis on the side. These additions add a little texture and contrast, making dessert feel like a true event.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving in tiny espresso cups creates adorable party-sized portions, while elegant wine glasses or coupe glasses offer that fine-dining feel. For a summery picnic vibe, layer the mousse in small mason jars with berries or cookie crumbles between the layers. However you serve it, White Chocolate Mousse always feels special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover White Chocolate Mousse can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep it in individual jars or glasses if you’ve already portioned it out, or transfer to an airtight container—just try to keep it protected from fridge odors for peak freshness.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze White Chocolate Mousse for up to one month. Place it in freezer-safe containers and press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the silkiest results—or try it semifreddo-style, slightly frozen for a dreamy summer treat.
Reheating
Since White Chocolate Mousse is best served chilled or even slightly frozen, there’s no need to reheat. Simply let it warm slightly at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving if it’s extra cold or straight from the freezer. You’ll get perfect texture every time!
FAQs
How do I keep my mousse from turning grainy?
The secret lies in using good-quality white chocolate and being gentle while melting and folding. Let the chocolate and butter melt slowly over low heat, and always let it cool before mixing in the cream—this helps prevent separation and pesky little lumps.
Can I make White Chocolate Mousse a day ahead?
Absolutely! White Chocolate Mousse is actually better after chilling overnight, as this gives it time to fully set and let the flavors meld. Just cover well in the fridge and garnish right before serving for the freshest look.
Is there a dairy-free or vegan version of White Chocolate Mousse?
Yes, you can experiment with dairy-free white chocolate and swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream. The texture will be slightly different, but you’ll still end up with a luscious treat.
Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?
It’s best to use chopped white chocolate from a bar, as it melts more evenly and gives a smoother mousse. White chocolate chips sometimes have stabilizers that can affect the creamy texture.
What kind of white chocolate works best?
Always choose a high-quality white chocolate bar with real cocoa butter (look for at least 30 percent cocoa butter in the ingredients). This guarantees the authentic flavor and melt-in-your-mouth smoothness for your mousse.
Final Thoughts
If you love desserts that feel both simple and elegant, you’re going to fall head over heels for White Chocolate Mousse. Whip it up for a dinner party or just because—it’s always a sweet way to celebrate. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving those creamy, airy spoonfuls again and again!
Print
White Chocolate Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the luxurious creaminess of this White Chocolate Mousse, a delightful dessert that’s light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces white chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh berries or shaved white chocolate for garnish (optional)
White Chocolate Mousse:
Instructions
- Melt White Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt white chocolate and butter until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Whip Cream: Whip 1 cup cream to soft peaks. Fold into white chocolate mixture.
- Whip Remaining Cream: Whip remaining cup of cream with vanilla and salt to stiff peaks. Gently fold into white chocolate mixture in batches.
- Chill: Spoon mousse into serving glasses, refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
- Garnish: Top with berries or shaved white chocolate before serving.
Notes
- Use good-quality white chocolate for best results.
- Pair with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a delicious combination.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
