Pin It My roommate walked in while I was making this and stared at the avocado on the counter like I'd lost my mind. She watched me dump cocoa powder into the blender with total skepticism, then licked the spoon five minutes later and asked for the recipe. Now whenever she comes over, this mousse is the first thing she requests.
I served this at a dinner party once and forgot to mention the secret ingredient until everyone had already finished. When I finally told them it was avocado-based, half the table refused to believe me. Thats how silky and chocolatey this mousse becomes when you blend it properly.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe avocados: The creamier and more spotted, the better they'll blend into that mousse-like texture
- 1/3 cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder: Dutch-process gives a deeper chocolate flavor but regular works perfectly fine
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) plant-based milk: Almond milk adds subtle nuttiness while oat milk makes it extra creamy
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup: Adjust up or down depending on your sweet tooth and how ripe your avocados are
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Pure extract makes a noticeable difference in rounding out the chocolate flavor
- Pinch of sea salt: This tiny amount wakes up all the other flavors and prevents the mousse from tasting flat
Instructions
- Blend everything until smooth:
- Toss the avocados, cocoa powder, plant milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt into your food processor. Let it run for a full minute, pausing halfway to scrape down any avocado stuck to the sides, until the mixture looks like glossy pudding.
- Taste and adjust:
- Grab a spoon and check the sweetness and chocolate intensity. Add more maple syrup if you like it sweeter or another tablespoon of cocoa if you want it darker, then blend briefly to incorporate.
- Portion and chill:
- Spoon the mousse into your prettiest glasses or small bowls, smoothing the tops with the back of your spoon. Refrigerate for at least thirty minutes to let the flavors meld and the texture set.
- Add your finishing touches:
- Pile on fresh berries, scatter shaved dark chocolate over the top, or add crunch with toasted nuts right before serving. The toppings transform this from simple dessert into something that looks restaurant-worthy.
Pin It This became my go-to dessert during finals week in college because it satisfied my late-night chocolate cravings without leaving me feeling heavy. Now whenever I need something indulgent but light, I reach for avocados instead of heavy cream.
Making It Extra Airy
For a texture closer to traditional chocolate mousse, try folding in whipped aquafaba or coconut cream after blending. The mousse becomes lighter and almost mousse-like in texture without changing the flavor profile at all.
Flavor Variations
I've added espresso powder for a mocha version and swapped in mint extract during the holidays. You can also stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter for a chocolate-nut combination that tastes like a healthier Reese's.
Storage And Serving
This mousse keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days, though the surface might darken slightly from oxidation. Just give it a quick stir before serving and no one will notice the difference.
- Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning
- Bring mousse to room temperature for ten minutes before serving for the creamiest texture
- Make it ahead for dinner parties and store covered in the fridge
Pin It There's something deeply satisfying about serving a dessert that feels so luxurious yet comes together in minutes. This mousse has saved me countless times when I need something impressive at the last minute.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives the mousse its creamy texture?
The creamy texture comes from ripe avocados blended smoothly with plant-based milk and maple syrup, creating a rich and silky consistency.
- → Can different plant milks be used?
Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk can be used to suit taste preferences or dietary needs without altering the flavor balance.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness levels?
Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or agave syrup during blending to match your preferred taste.
- → Are there optional toppings for added texture?
Yes, fresh berries, shaved dark chocolate, toasted nuts, or coconut flakes enhance texture and flavor when sprinkled on top.
- → Is chilling necessary before serving?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes improves the mousse’s texture, making it firmer and more refreshing to enjoy.
- → Can it be made lighter or fluffier?
Folding in whipped aquafaba or coconut cream after blending creates a lighter, airy texture for a delicate mouthfeel.