Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This mocha mousse is a dream for anyone who loves the combination of coffee and chocolate. It’s rich, creamy, and indulgent, yet requires no baking. The blend of semi-sweet chocolate and espresso creates a deliciously deep flavor that’s lightened by whipped cream. These individual cups are perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying a little treat at home. Plus, they come together in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and milk. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until the mixture is melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and instant espresso powder until smooth and creamy.
- Add the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, and beat until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mocha mixture until fully incorporated.
- Spoon or pipe the mousse into 4 serving cups and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling time)
Variations
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping and vegan cream cheese to make this dessert dairy-free.
- Flavored Espresso: Try different flavored espresso powders, like vanilla or caramel, to customize the mousse flavor.
- Toppings: Add extra toppings such as crushed coffee beans, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a few berries for extra flair.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the mousse cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: This dessert is served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just keep it chilled until ready to serve.
FAQs
1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate will give the mousse a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.
2. Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?
Instant espresso powder works best for the richest flavor, but you can substitute with strong brewed coffee in a pinch.
3. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
4. How long should I chill the mousse before serving?
It’s best to chill for at least 1 hour to let the mousse set and fully develop its flavors.
5. Can I make this dessert in larger quantities?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to serve more people.
6. What if I don’t have whipped cream?
You can use store-bought whipped topping or make your own by whipping heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
7. Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or ricotta cheese as an alternative to cream cheese for a different flavor and texture.
8. Can I freeze these mousse cups?
Yes, you can freeze the mousse, but the texture may change slightly once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after a brief chill.
9. Can I use a different sweetener?
If you prefer, you can substitute powdered sugar with a sugar substitute that is suitable for desserts.
Conclusion
No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups are a delightful dessert for coffee lovers, combining rich chocolate and espresso flavors in a creamy mousse. Quick to make and perfect for any occasion, these cups will satisfy your sweet tooth without the need to turn on the oven. Serve them at your next gathering, or simply enjoy them as an indulgent treat after dinner!
No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups Recipe
No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups are a rich and creamy dessert made with a delicious blend of chocolate and espresso flavors. These individual mousse cups are perfect for coffee lovers and require no baking. Quick, easy, and indulgent, they’re the ideal treat for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake, Coffee Flavored, Quick Treat
- Method: Whipping, Folding, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
¼ cup powdered sugar
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup milk
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for garnish
Instructions
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Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and milk. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Let it cool slightly.
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Prepare the Mousse Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and instant espresso powder until smooth and creamy.
-
Combine with Chocolate: Add the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.
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Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
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Fold the Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mocha mixture until well combined.
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Assemble the Cups: Spoon or pipe the mousse into 4 individual serving cups. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder just before serving.
Notes
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or dairy-free whipped topping and vegan cream cheese to make it dairy-free.
Flavored Espresso: Experiment with flavored espresso powders, such as vanilla or caramel, to customize the mousse.
Toppings: For extra flair, add crushed coffee beans, chocolate syrup, or berries on top.
