White Chocolate Mousse Recipe

Servings: 6 Total Time: 2 hrs 25 mins Difficulty: Beginner
A light, creamy white chocolate mousse perfect for elegant dinners or indulgent treats.
White chocolate mousse in a glass topped with raspberries and mint. View Gallery 5 photos

🍨 White Chocolate Mousse Recipe: A Creamy Dream in Every Bite

Introduction

White chocolate mousse is the silky, decadent dessert you didn’t know you needed. It’s smooth, airy, and just sweet enough—ideal for romantic dinners, festive gatherings, or solo indulgence. Serve it layered with berries, garnished with white chocolate curls, or as a luxurious filling in your next trifle. Bonus? It’s easier to whip up than you think.

Historical Background of White Chocolate Mousse

The word “mousse” means “foam” in French, a nod to its light, fluffy texture. Traditional chocolate mousse has 18th-century French origins, while white chocolate mousse is a modern twist, rising in popularity during the late 20th century. Its buttery sweetness and elegant hue made it a staple for chefs and home cooks looking to innovate classic desserts—much like the creative spirit behind this lemon pudding cake recipe.

Ingredients for the Best White Chocolate Mousse Recipe

Ingredients for white chocolate mousse laid out neatly.
  • 8 oz (225g) white chocolate, finely chopped
  • 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream, divided
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 large egg whites (optional for extra fluffiness)
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 tbsp orange liqueur or amaretto
  • 1 tsp instant espresso powder (mocha lovers, rejoice!)
  • Fresh berries, white chocolate curls, or crushed pistachios for garnish

How to Make White Chocolate Mousse – Step-by-Step Recipe

Folding whipped cream into white chocolate with a spatula.
  1. Melt the Chocolate
    In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the white chocolate. Stir until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
  2. Whip the Cream
    In a chilled bowl, whip 1½ cups of cream until soft peaks form. Avoid over-whipping—it should be silky, not stiff.
  3. Flavor It Up
    Stir in vanilla extract. Add liqueur or espresso powder now if desired.
  4. Fold Gently
    Carefully fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate. Use a spatula and a light hand to keep the mixture airy.
  5. Optional Fluff Factor
    If using, beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the mousse.
  6. Chill
    Spoon into ramekins or serving glasses. Refrigerate for 2+ hours.
White chocolate mousse chilling inside a fridge.

Necessary Equipment

  • Double boiler or heatproof bowl & saucepan
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Mixing bowls & spatula
  • Glasses or ramekins
  • Peeler or grater for curls

Fun Variations

  • Berry Parfait: Layer mousse with crushed raspberries or seasonal fruit
  • Mocha Dream: Mix in espresso powder and dust with cocoa
  • Tropical Escape: Stir in mango or passionfruit purée
  • Nutty Swirl: Fold in almond butter or toasted hazelnuts
  • Vegan Version: Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Keep covered for up to 3 days
  • Freezer: Store airtight for 1 month; thaw in fridge overnight
  • Reheating: Not recommended—serve chilled only

Optional Serving Ideas

  • Top with berries or mint
  • Add a dusting of cinnamon or cocoa
  • Serve with butter cookies
  • Use as cake or trifle filling
Serving white chocolate mousse with spoon and garnish.

Nutrition (Per Serving | Serves 6)

  • Calories: 380
  • Fat: 30g (Sat: 18g)
  • Carbs: 22g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g

FAQs

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it’s perfect for prepping a day in advance.

Can I use chips instead of bars?
You can, but chips may melt less smoothly. See tips in our chocolate mousse guide.

Is it safe to use raw egg whites?
Use pasteurized eggs to minimize risks or skip them for a denser mousse.

Why is my mousse runny or grainy?
Runny: chill longer or fold in more cream.
Grainy: chocolate likely overheated—melt it gently next time.

Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes—opt for sugar-free white chocolate and use a sugar alternative.

Final Notes

  • Melt white chocolate low and slow
  • Chill tools before whipping cream
  • Rich flavor = small portions
  • Excellent as a trifle or layer cake filling

Looking for more luscious desserts? Don’t miss our gluten-free dessert roundup or get inspired by this dreamy pineapple cake!

White Chocolate Mousse Recipe

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 5 mins Rest Time 2 hrs Total Time 2 hrs 25 mins
Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 12 Calories: 380 kcal
Best Season: All Seasons

Description

This white chocolate mousse recipe is rich yet airy, made with just a few simple ingredients like white chocolate, whipped cream, and vanilla. It's an elegant dessert that's easy to prepare and perfect for romantic dinners, holiday parties, or any occasion that calls for a touch of decadence.

Ingredients

8 oz (225g) white chocolate, finely chopped

2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream, divided

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

2 large egg whites (optional)

Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins

1 tbsp orange liqueur or amaretto

1 tsp instant espresso powder

Fresh berries, white chocolate curls, or crushed pistachios for garnish

Instructions

Melt the chopped white chocolate over a double boiler until smooth. Cool slightly.

Whip 1½ cups of heavy cream to soft peaks in a chilled bowl.

Stir vanilla and any optional flavorings into the melted chocolate.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture.

(Optional) Beat egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form and fold into the mousse.

Spoon into ramekins or glasses. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6


Amount Per Serving
Calories 380kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 30g47%
Saturated Fat 18g90%
Total Carbohydrate 22g8%
Sugars 20g
Protein 4g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • Always melt white chocolate gently to avoid seizing.
  • Chill your bowl and whisk before whipping cream for best results.
  • Can be layered in trifles or used as a cake filling.
  • Vegan version: Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream.
Keywords: white chocolate mousse, mousse dessert, creamy mousse recipe, easy chocolate mousse, elegant dessert, white chocolate recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I use white chocolate chips?

Yes, but bars melt more evenly.

Is it safe to use raw eggs?

Use pasteurized eggs or omit them.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it’s perfect for make-ahead desserts.

Why is my mousse runny?

It may need more chill time or extra whipped cream.

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