Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 6 oz high-quality dark chocolate
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
Chocolate Mousse
- 8 oz high-quality dark chocolate
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Fresh berries (raspberries, strawberries)
- Chocolate shavings
- Edible rose petals
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Melt together dark chocolate and unsalted butter gently over a double boiler until smooth. Whisk in sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Fold in sifted flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt carefully, avoiding overmixing to maintain a tender brownie texture.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into a greased and parchment-lined baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely to room temperature before adding the mousse.
- Make the Chocolate Mousse: Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Melt dark chocolate separately and let it cool slightly. Gently fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate in batches, preserving as much air as possible until smooth and fully combined.
- Layer the Mousse Over the Brownie: Spread the prepared mousse evenly over the cooled brownie base using a spatula or offset knife to create a smooth, even layer for a beautiful presentation.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the layered dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the mousse to set firmly and let the flavors meld perfectly.
- Serve: Slice carefully into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts. Garnish with optional toppings such as fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or edible flowers before serving.
Notes
- Use quality chocolate to ensure the best flavor in both brownie and mousse layers.
- Do not overbake the brownies to keep them fudgy and tender.
- Whip cream to soft peaks for a light, smooth mousse without graininess.
- Fold ingredients gently to maintain mousse airiness and fluffy texture.
- Chilling thoroughly is essential for proper layering and flavor development.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour is used)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chocolate mousse brownies, layered dessert, Valentine dessert, chocolate dessert, fudgy brownies, airy mousse, romantic dessert