Directions to follow
Prepare the Brownie Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract and mix well.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gently fold everything together until just combined.
- Stir in the chocolate chips to add that extra burst of chocolaty goodness.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before moving on to the mousse.
Make the Chocolate Mousse
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Slowly pour in the melted semi-sweet chocolate, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
- Spread the mousse evenly over the cooled brownie base.
Finishing Touch
- Sprinkle the top with dark chocolate chunks or shavings for an extra touch of elegance.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting and serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Chocolate Mousse Brownies, the possibilities are endless! Consider dusting them lightly with cocoa powder or serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. A drizzle of raspberry sauce can add a tangy touch that complements the rich flavors beautifully. For extra flair, you might even top them with fresh berries, making for an impressive presentation.
How to store & freeze
These brownies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Just cut them into portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and savor their deliciousness!
Helpful cooking tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature; this makes it easier to blend smoothly into the mousse.
- Whip it High: When whipping the heavy cream, make sure to beat it until stiff peaks form for the best texture in your mousse.
- Don’t Skip the Chill: Allowing the brownies and mousse to chill helps meld the flavors and creates a perfect slice.
Creative twists
What if you want to try something a little different? You could experiment with different types of chocolate, such as swapping semi-sweet chocolate for milk chocolate for a sweeter brownie. Or why not add a layer of peanut butter mousse for a delightful twist? For a cookie dough flair, you could spoon dollops of edible cookie dough over the top before chilling!
FAQs
How long do these brownies take to make?
The total time to prepare Chocolate Mousse Brownies is around 45 minutes, but don’t forget to account for the chilling time, which is at least 2 hours.
Can I substitute the cream cheese in the mousse?
Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cream cheese or silken tofu blended until smooth as an alternative.
Is it safe to eat these brownies after freezing?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thoroughly thaw them in the refrigerator before consuming. This helps maintain the best texture and flavor.
Indulge in these Chocolate Mousse Brownies — they might just become your new favorite dessert!
