Ready in: 1 hour 15 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Blending · Storage: 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
A velvety smooth High Protein Chocolate Mousse made with wholesome ingredients for a healthy and indulgent dessert.
As the crisp air of autumn beckons, I find myself drawn into the kitchen-my favorite sanctuary-especially with Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner. There's something magical about the season that whispers for cozy gatherings and indulgent desserts. Today, I'm excited to share a delightful treat that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your health goals: a velvety High Protein Chocolate Mousse. This recipe features wholesome ingredients like ripe avocados, ripe bananas, and a touch of cocoa that transforms into a lush mousse, perfect for holiday feasts or quiet evenings at home.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Indulge in a rich, chocolatey dessert that's both delicious and nutritious.
- Utilize wholesome ingredients to create a healthier alternative to traditional mousse.
- Enjoy a high protein treat perfect for post-workout recovery or satisfying sweet cravings.
- Simplify holiday entertaining with an impressive yet easy dessert.
- Customize with your favorite toppings for a unique presentation every time.
Ingredients
Gather the following wholesome ingredients to create this delectable High Protein Chocolate Mousse:
Base Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados (the most perfectly creamy ones you can find)
- 2 ripe bananas (sweet, spotty ones work best)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process for a rich flavor)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (real vanilla adds depth)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (for natural sweetness)
- 1 pinch of salt (an essential ingredient for enhancement)
Optional Toppings
- Whipped coconut cream
- Fresh berries
- Sprinkle of cacao nibs
How to Make High Protein Chocolate Mousse (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create your own creamy and delicious High Protein Chocolate Mousse.
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by slicing the avocados in half and scooping the flesh into a food processor. It's important to use ripe avocados for their smooth, buttery texture, which serves as the creamy foundation of your mousse. Then, peel the bananas and add them to the mix.
Step 2: Blend for Creaminess
With your food processor whirring, add in the unsweetened cocoa powder, pure vanilla extract, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Process until the mixture is ultra-smooth and glossy. Take a moment to admire the rich chocolate color-it's truly a treat for the eyes!
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
This is the fun part! Dip a spoon into the mixture for a quick taste. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup if desired. Blend again until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Chill
Transfer the mousse into your serving dishes or a large bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let it firm up and for the flavors to meld. The anticipation makes it all the more worth it!
Step 5: Serve with Flair
When it's time to serve, take the mousse out of the fridge and garnish with your choice of toppings. I love adding whipped coconut cream and fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using overripe avocados: While you want them ripe, overly brown avocados can add an off flavor. Look for smooth, creamy ones.
- Not tasting as you go: It's crucial to taste the mousse at various stages-especially before chilling-to ensure it's to your liking.
- Skipping the chilling step: For the best texture and flavor, don't rush this step; letting it chill allows the mousse to set up beautifully.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Using a high-speed blender: If you have one, a high-speed blender can make this even creamier than a food processor.
- Chill your serving bowls: For an extra touch, chill your bowls in advance. The cold bowls enhance the mousse's luxurious feel when served.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a hint of espresso powder or a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist!
Variations
- Use light coconut milk instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness level.
- Swap out ripe bananas for dates for a more caramel-like flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of almond butter for an extra nutty twist.
How to Serve
- Garnish with whipped coconut cream and fresh berries for added color.
- Sprinkle cacao nibs on top for a delightful crunch.
- Serve in chilled bowls to enhance the mousse's texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: The mousse can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Storage: Keep the mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: This recipe is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the texture and creaminess of the mousse.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
During my testing, I discovered that the balance of bananas and avocados creates not only a wonderfully creamy texture but also an incredible flavor profile that feels indulgent without any guilt. Additionally, garnishing with fresh fruits adds both visual appeal and a freshness that elevates the entire experience.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: ½ cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~210 calories · 4g protein · 30g carbs · 10g fat
Recipe by:
Indulgent High Protein Chocolate Mousse
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by slicing the avocados in half and scooping the flesh into a food processor. Add the peeled bananas to the mix.
- Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, pure vanilla extract, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Process until the mixture is ultra-smooth and glossy.
- Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup if desired. Blend again until well combined.
- Transfer the mousse into serving dishes or a large bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let it firm up and for the flavors to meld.
- When ready to serve, garnish with your choice of toppings, like whipped coconut cream and fresh berries.
Notes
FAQs
Can I substitute the avocados with something else?
While avocados provide a unique creamy texture, you can try using silken tofu or a dairy-free yogurt as alternatives. However, the flavor and consistency may vary.
How do I know when my mousse is ready to serve?
The mousse should be firm to the touch and smooth in texture after chilling. You can also do a taste test before serving to ensure the flavor is just right!
Can I make this mousse ahead of time?
Yes! The mousse can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep it well covered to maintain its creamy texture.
