Description

A dense, silky, and rich chocolate mousse cake that requires no baking. Made with just five simple ingredients, this gluten-free dessert is perfect for weeknight cravings or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces (225g) high-quality semi-sweet chocolate bars (not chips)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
Cocoa powder, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan or 6-inch round cake pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and lightly spray with non-stick spray.
Break the chocolate into chunks and melt in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy. Alternatively, use a double boiler. Let cool slightly until warm, not hot.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar vigorously for about 2 minutes until pale and slightly thickened.
Slowly pour the warm melted chocolate into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Stir in the softened butter until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
In a clean, cold bowl, whip the heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes). Do not over-whip.
Add about one-third of the whipped cream to the chocolate mixture and stir to lighten. Gently fold in the remaining cream using a spatula with a figure-eight motion until no white streaks remain.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, until set.
To serve, run a knife around the edges to loosen, lift the cake out using the parchment overhang, and dust with cocoa powder. Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

Notes

Do not use chocolate chips as they contain stabilizers that prevent smooth melting. Ensure heavy cream is very cold for best whipping results. Temper eggs by adding chocolate slowly. The cake is best made overnight to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm up. Do not reheat; serve cold.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cake
Calories: 280
Sugar: 14
Sodium: 45
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 13
Carbohydrates: 18
Fiber: 2
Protein: 5

Keywords: chocolate mousse cake, 5-ingredient dessert, gluten-free dessert, no-bake cake, creamy chocolate dessert, weeknight dessert, make-ahead dessert