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Decadent Peppermint Mocha Mousse Cups

peppermint mocha mousse cups - featured image

Rich, velvety chocolate mousse with a refreshing hint of peppermint and a subtle coffee kick, perfect for a festive holiday dessert that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 oz (170 g) dark chocolate (bittersweet or semisweet)
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream, chilled (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) espresso or strong coffee, cooled
  • ¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional garnishes: crushed candy canes, shaved chocolate, whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Chop 6 oz (170 g) dark chocolate into small pieces. Melt in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler), stirring gently until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare 1/3 cup (80 ml) strong espresso or coffee and allow to cool to room temperature. If using instant espresso powder, dissolve in hot water and cool.
  3. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add ¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, being careful not to overbeat.
  4. Stir the cooled melted chocolate with the cooled espresso and 1 tsp peppermint extract until smooth and well blended.
  5. Gently fold about one-third of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then fold in the remaining whipped cream carefully to keep the mousse airy and fluffy.
  6. Spoon the mousse into serving cups or ramekins. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set (overnight recommended for best flavor and texture).
  7. Before serving, add optional garnishes such as crushed candy canes, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream.

Notes

Chill bowls and beaters before whipping cream for best results. Melt chocolate slowly over double boiler to avoid burning. Fold ingredients gently to keep mousse light and fluffy. Chill mousse at least 2 hours or overnight for best texture. Optional: add mascarpone cheese for extra creaminess or peppermint schnapps for an adult twist.

Nutrition

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