This decadent 5-ingredient Coffee Mousse is the perfect dessert for coffee lovers. Light, airy, and rich in flavor, it combines the smooth bitterness of espresso with velvety whipped cream and dark chocolate. It’s an elegant treat that’s incredibly simple to make—and sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This coffee mousse comes together in just 10 minutes and uses only five pantry staples. It’s a no-bake dessert that delivers café-level sophistication with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it after dinner, at a brunch, or as a midday indulgence, this mousse hits the sweet spot between creamy and bold. Plus, it can be made ahead and keeps beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Heavy cream
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Milk
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Espresso or strong brewed coffee (cooled)
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Confectioners’ sugar
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Dark chocolate (melted and cooled)
Directions
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In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
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In a separate bowl, combine the milk, cooled espresso or coffee, confectioners’ sugar, and melted dark chocolate. Stir until smooth.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the coffee-chocolate mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
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Spoon or pipe the mousse into individual serving glasses or bowls.
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mousse is set and chilled. Serve as is or garnish with shaved chocolate, cocoa powder, or whipped cream.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes (+ chilling time)
Variations
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Use white or milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier variation.
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Add coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Baileys for a boozy twist.
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Top with crushed cookies or nuts for added texture.
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Make it mocha by using flavored chocolate or adding a pinch of cocoa powder.
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Add vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra depth of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
To store: Cover the mousse with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
To freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. The texture remains creamy after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use decaffeinated coffee?
Yes, you can use decaf espresso or strong brewed coffee with no impact on flavor or texture.
Do I have to use dark chocolate?
No, you can use milk or white chocolate, though it will change the sweetness and richness of the mousse.
Can I make this mousse ahead of time?
Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, making it perfect for prepping in advance.
How do I know when the mousse is set?
The mousse should be firm enough to hold its shape when spooned but still light and airy in texture after chilling.
Can I serve this warm?
No, this dessert needs to be chilled to achieve the right texture. Warm mousse will be too liquid and won’t hold up.
What’s the best way to melt the chocolate?
Use a microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between, or melt it over a double boiler. Let it cool slightly before mixing into the mousse.
Can I use instant coffee instead?
Yes, dissolve 1 to 2 teaspoons of instant coffee in hot water and let it cool before using.
How can I make this vegan?
Use a plant-based whipped cream, dairy-free milk, and vegan chocolate to adapt the recipe.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just be sure to use a large enough bowl to whip and fold the ingredients properly without deflating the mousse.
What toppings go well with coffee mousse?
Try chocolate shavings, whipped cream, espresso powder, cocoa powder, or chopped hazelnuts for an elevated finish.
Conclusion
This Coffee Mousse is a quick and luxurious dessert that coffee and chocolate lovers will adore. With just five ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a creamy, dreamy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you make it ahead for a dinner party or enjoy it as a weeknight indulgence, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite.
Print
Coffee Mousse
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This decadent 5-ingredient coffee mousse is rich, creamy, and quick to prepare. Made with espresso and dark chocolate, it’s a dreamy dessert for coffee lovers and perfect for make-ahead entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, melted and cooled
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk, cooled espresso, confectioners’ sugar, and melted chocolate. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the coffee-chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
- Divide the mousse into serving glasses or bowls.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Notes
- You can use decaffeinated coffee if preferred.
- To store: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- To freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 271
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 43mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
