Easy S’mores Chocolate Mousse

If you’re a chocolate lover, you know that it’s hard to beat the rich and decadent flavor of chocolate mousse. But you may also know that chocolate mousse can be bit fussy to make. Depending on the recipe, it may involve tempered egg yolks or gelatin packets. We wanted an easy chocolate mousse recipe that skips all the fuss and instead relies on a secret ingredient—mini marshmallows—to stabilize and sweeten the dessert. And as a wink and a nod to the “secret” ingredient, each serving is topped with a graham cracker and toasted marshmallow garnish.

This tasty and easy s’mores chocolate mousse is just as at home served alongside other potluck desserts as it is served as a finishing touch to an al fresco dinner party.

Easy S’mores Chocolate Mousse Ingredients

• Heavy cream: Heavy cream is used both to add creaminess to the chocolate mixture and to make fresh whipped cream, which is folded into the chocolate mixture to give it a light and airy texture.
• Chocolate chips: Because the chocolate is the star of the show here, be sure to use the best quality chocolate you can find. Semisweet chocolate is a versatile pick that is a nice mixture between sweet and bitter. Dark chocolate is ideal for chocolate mousse recipes; look for chocolate chips that are at least 60% cocoa.
• Instant espresso powder: Espresso powder helps enhance the flavor of the chocolate. (We even use it as a secret ingredient in other chocolate desserts!) If you don’t happen to have it on hand, you can skip this ingredient.
• Vanilla: Vanilla balances the bitter flavors of the chocolate. We recommend a high quality brand of vanilla extract for this s’mores-inspired recipe.
• Salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor of the mousse.
• Mini marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are the secret ingredient in this mousse recipe. They both sweeten the mousse and help it set. The smaller-sized mini marshmallows are ideal as they melt quickly, but you could also use regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces if necessary.
• Garnish: Each serving is topped with a graham cracker and toasted mini marshmallow garnish.

Directions

Step 1: Make the chocolate mixture

In a large saucepan, combine 1/2 cup heavy cream, chocolate chips, espresso powder, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla and salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is melted. Add the marshmallows in two batches, stirring and allowing most of the first marshmallows to melt into the chocolate mixture before adding the second batch.

Remove from the heat, and transfer the chocolate mixture to a large mixing bowl. Cool to room temperature (at least 30 minutes), stirring every so often to help release the heat.

Step 2: Whip the cream

While the chocolate mixture is cooling, make the whipped cream. Combine the remaining 1-1/2 cups heavy cream with 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, and whip on medium speed until stiff peaks form.

Editor’s Tip: You don’t need a stand mixer to make whipped cream, but it sure does make it a lot easier! Break out your electric hand mixer if you’d prefer.

Step 3: Make the mousse

Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully combined and no streaks remain.

Spoon the mousse into six 6-ounce serving dishes. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve, at least two hours.

Step 4: Make the garnish

Set the graham cracker segments on a baking sheet and top each cracker with three mini marshmallows. Set under the broiler to lightly toast the marshmallows, one to two minutes.

Remove from the oven and transfer the graham crackers to a plate. Use the back of a spoon to gently flatten the toasted marshmallows on each graham cracker segment. Garnish each dish of mousse with a graham cracker segment just before serving.

Easy S’mores Chocolate Mousse Variations

• Go big with garnishes: A dollop of whipped cream, chocolate shavings or graham cracker crumbs are also tasty topping ideas. You could also top each serving with fresh berries, such as chopped strawberries or raspberries. Or, amp up the s’mores vibes by piping Swiss meringue onto each serving and using a kitchen torch to lightly brown it.
• Layer it: For a fun layered take on this chocolate mousse, fill the bottom of each serving dish with graham cracker crumbs, fill the dish halfway with chocolate mousse, then add more graham crumbs and top with another layer of mousse.
• Pipe it: For an elegant serving, use a piping bag to pipe the chocolate mousse into each serving dish.

How to Store Easy S’mores Chocolate Mousse

S’mores chocolate mousse should be stored in the refrigerator. Cover each serving with storage wrap (or a lid, if you use small jars).

How long does s’mores chocolate mousse last?

Chocolate mousse lasts up to four days when stored properly in the fridge.

Easy S’mores Chocolate Mousse Tips

Why did my chocolate seize?

Chocolate typically seizes when it comes into contact with water or is heated too quickly. Be sure your saucepan and wooden spoon or spatula are completely dry before using. Additionally, use medium-low heat to melt the chocolate. Slower is better here!

Why did my mousse deflate?

Chocolate that is too warm will deflate the whipped cream, so be sure that the chocolate mixture has cooled to room temperature before folding in the whipped cream.