Silky, rich, and kissed with a cool breeze of peppermint, this Chocolate Peppermint Mousse is a dessert that feels like a cozy winter evening in a glass. With each luscious spoonful, the deep chocolate flavor melts into a refreshing hint of mint, making it a delightful treat for holiday gatherings or simply indulging in something decadent after dinner.
It looks fancy, but don’t let that fool you—this mousse is surprisingly easy to whip up. Served in elegant glasses and topped with crushed peppermint candies and whipped cream, it’s a dessert that not only delivers on flavor but also adds a festive touch to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Mousse
- Festive & elegant: Perfect for the holidays or when you’re craving something refreshing and rich.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prep this dessert a day in advance, making it a stress-free crowd-pleaser.
- Simple ingredients: No complicated steps or ingredients—just classic chocolate, cream, eggs, and peppermint.
- Customizable: Add your own flair with garnishes like chocolate curls, mini candy canes, or even a drizzle of liqueur.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Making this mousse is straightforward, but the tools you use play a big role in getting that light, airy texture just right.
- Heatproof mixing bowl: Essential for melting the chocolate evenly over a double boiler.
- Double boiler or saucepan setup: Allows gentle, controlled melting without burning the chocolate.
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: Whipping the cream and egg whites to stiff peaks is key for the mousse’s airy structure.
- Silicone spatula: Helps gently fold the whipped elements into the chocolate without deflating them.
- Serving glasses or ramekins: Presentation matters—choose something clear to show off the layers and textures.
These tools ensure your mousse is smooth, fluffy, and ready to impress.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Peppermint Mousse
- Semi-sweet chocolate: Forms the rich, velvety base. Opt for high-quality bars over chips for best results.
- Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and structure. It’s used both in the mousse and as a garnish.
- Eggs (separated): Yolks give richness, while whipped whites bring airy lightness.
- Granulated sugar: Lightly sweetens the mousse and helps stabilize the egg whites.
- Peppermint extract: Infuses the mousse with cool, minty notes—start light and adjust to taste.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the chocolate.
- Crushed peppermint candies: Used for garnish, adding festive color and crunch.
- Whipped cream: A dollop on top balances the richness and completes the presentation.
How To Make the Chocolate Peppermint Mousse
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Break the chocolate into small pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl. Set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), stirring occasionally until fully melted and glossy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until medium peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip. Transfer to the fridge to keep it cold while you prep the rest.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Yolks
In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Slowly stir in the cooled melted chocolate until smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Beat the Egg Whites
Using a clean bowl and mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks hold.
Step 5: Fold Everything Together
Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture in two additions. Then, carefully fold in the beaten egg whites. Use a light hand to keep the mousse fluffy.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set. When ready to serve, top with whipped cream and a generous sprinkle of crushed peppermint.
How to Serve and Store Chocolate Peppermint Mousse
Serve this mousse chilled in individual glasses or ramekins to highlight its creamy texture and festive flair. Just before serving, add a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for a seasonal touch. A fresh mint leaf makes a beautiful final garnish.
If you’re preparing in advance, cover each glass with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the mousse (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before garnishing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this mousse without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with whipped cream and gelatin for a no-egg version. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Absolutely! Use full-fat coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a quality dairy-free chocolate. Ensure your peppermint extract is also dairy-free.
Can I use white chocolate instead?
You can, but it will be a much sweeter dessert. Reduce the sugar and taste the mix before adding peppermint extract, as white chocolate pairs differently with mint.
How long should the mousse chill before serving?
A minimum of 2 hours is recommended for a proper set. Overnight chilling works best if preparing ahead.
Can I add alcohol for an adult twist?
Definitely! A splash of peppermint schnapps or chocolate liqueur adds depth. Just be cautious—too much can affect the mousse’s texture.
What if I don’t have peppermint candies for garnish?
No problem! Try chocolate curls, mini chocolate chips, or crushed Oreos for a creative twist.
Want More Dessert Ideas with a Cool Twist?
If this Chocolate Peppermint Mousse has your tastebuds tingling, you’ll love these other refreshing dessert favorites:
- Homemade Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream for citrusy tang with creamy richness.
- Rose Pistachio Cheesecake Ice Cream if you’re in the mood for floral elegance.
- Refreshing Mango Strawberry Sorbet that’s fruity and light.
- High-Protein Chocolate Chia Pudding for a healthier chocolate fix.
- Winter Brittle to keep the peppermint vibes going with a satisfying crunch.
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And when you make it, let me know how it turned out! Did you go for the classic whipped topping or try something fun like shaved chocolate? I love seeing your takes on these recipes.
Got a question or twist to share? Drop it in the comments—let’s make dessert even better together.

Chocolate Peppermint Mousse
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Peppermint Mousse recipe is the perfect holiday dessert—silky smooth, rich with chocolate, and kissed with cool peppermint. It’s an easy, make-ahead dessert made with cream, eggs, peppermint extract, and topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candy. Perfect for Christmas, winter parties, or festive indulgence.
Ingredients
6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream (divided: 3/4 cup for mousse, 1/4 cup for topping)
2 large eggs, separated
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
Optional: fresh mint leaves, extra whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
1. Break the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. In a chilled bowl, whip 3/4 cup of heavy cream to medium peaks. Place it in the fridge while you prepare the rest.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with peppermint and vanilla extract. Slowly mix in the cooled melted chocolate until fully combined.
4. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture in two additions. Then gently fold in the whipped egg whites until just combined.
6. Spoon the mousse into serving glasses. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours until set.
7. Before serving, top with whipped cream, crushed peppermint, and fresh mint if desired.
Notes
Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate bars (not chips) for the smoothest texture.
Be gentle when folding in whipped cream and egg whites to avoid deflating the mousse.
Peppermint extract can be strong—start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mousse cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 110mg

