Description
Indulge in these rich and creamy Chocolate Mousse Brownies, featuring a dense, fudgy brownie base topped with a light and fluffy chocolate mousse layer. This layered dessert combines the best of both worlds for chocolate lovers, perfect for special occasions or make-ahead treats.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Chocolate Mousse Layer:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (divided)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Chocolate shavings
- Cocoa powder
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely.
- Make the Chocolate Mousse: Heat 1/2 cup of the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl until steaming but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a mixing bowl and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and fully melted. Let this chocolate mixture cool to room temperature.
- Whip the Cream: In another bowl, beat the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the cooled chocolate mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined and fluffy, being careful not to deflate the mousse.
- Assemble and Chill: Spread the mousse evenly over the cooled brownie layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set properly.
- Serve: Slice the chilled brownies into 9–12 pieces. Optionally, top with chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or additional whipped cream before serving.
Notes
- These brownies are rich and decadent, making them perfect for special occasions or as make-ahead desserts.
- For extra texture, add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter before baking.
- You can also add a layer of ganache on top of the mousse for more richness.
- Ensure the mousse is chilled fully before slicing to maintain clean pieces.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
