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JULIA CHILD’S CHOCOLATE MOUSSE — A ROMANTIC FRENCH CLASSIC DESSERT

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JULIA CHILD’S CHOCOLATE MOUSSE — A ROMANTIC FRENCH CLASSIC DESSERT

JULIA CHILD’S CHOCOLATE MOUSSE — A ROMANTIC FRENCH CLASSIC DESSERT

Indulge your loved ones with this decadent and airy chocolate mousse inspired by Julia Child’s iconic French recipe. Silky, sensual, and delightfully light, it’s the perfect dessert to celebrate love and create unforgettable moments in the kitchen. The luscious texture and rich flavors make it a timeless classic sure to impress.

🕒 Prep Time: 20 min

🍳 Chill Time: 4+ hours (preferably overnight)
🍽️ Servings: 4

🍫 Ingredients

Chocolate Cream:

  • 85 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
  • 85 g unsalted butter (82% fat)
  • 30 ml strong espresso coffee

Egg Cream:

  • 2 egg yolks
  • 85 g sugar (plus ½ tbsp sugar)
  • 15 ml rum
  • 1 tbsp water
  • A pinch of salt

Meringue:

  • 2 egg whites
  • ½ tbsp sugar

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cream

  • Place chopped chocolate, butter cubes, and espresso in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler). Stir gently with a whisk until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Make the Egg Cream

  • In another heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks, 85 g sugar, rum, and water. Place over simmering water and whisk continuously until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens (8–10 minutes).
  • Remove from heat and cool the bowl in an ice bath while whisking until thick and at room temperature. It should flow off the whisk in thick ribbons.

3. Combine Chocolate and Egg Cream

  • Gently fold the chocolate cream into the cooled egg cream using a whisk. Add a pinch of salt. Transfer to a large mixing bowl for the next step.

4. Whip the Meringue

  • Beat egg whites with a mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining ½ tablespoon sugar and continue beating until firm and glossy. The meringue should hold stiff peaks and not slip when the bowl is inverted.

5. Fold Meringue into Chocolate Mixture

  • Carefully fold ⅓ of the meringue into the chocolate mixture using a whisk with gentle folding motions from bottom to top. Avoid overmixing — leave some streaks of white visible.
  • Repeat with the second third, then fold in the final third, maintaining the airy texture.

6. Portion and Chill

  • Spoon the mousse gently into serving cups, glasses, or bowls without smoothing the surface. Lightly tap the containers to settle the mousse if desired.
  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

7. Optional Bicolor Presentation

  • For a beautiful layered effect, pour mousse into glasses held at a 45° angle. Support the glass to keep the angle and chill overnight.
  • Before serving, fill the remaining half with lightly sweetened whipped cream flavored with vanilla extract and top with chocolate shavings.

💡 Tips

  • Be gentle when folding to maintain the mousse’s airy texture.
  • Use high-quality dark chocolate and strong espresso for best flavor depth.
  • The egg cream stage is critical — whisk continuously to avoid graininess.
  • Chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Romantic dinners and celebrations
  • Special occasions and festive meals
  • Classic French dessert lovers

📝 Final Thoughts

Julia Child’s Chocolate Mousse is a luscious gift to any chocolate lover — decadent yet light, rich yet delicate. With its airy texture and luxurious taste, it’s the perfect way to share love through food. Enjoy making and savoring this timeless French classic with those who matter most.