A Rich And Indulgent Valentine's Day Dessert

by Jolene Ketzenberger

A Valentine’s Day dessert should be rich and indulgent – and chocolate, of course – and special enough for a romantic holiday. And if you can make it ahead, well, that’s even better. This easy chocolate mousse fills the bill and is terrific with fresh strawberries or blueberries. It makes a great ending for dinner a deux. Just stash the additional servings in the fridge to enjoy the next day – or for the kids, who will also love this light, fluffy treat.

Chocolate Mousse
Makes about 6 servings

• 4 egg yolks
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream, divided
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• Fresh fruit for garnish

In a small bowl, beat egg yolks for 3 minutes with electric mixer on high speed until yolks become thick and lemon colored; gradually beat in sugar. Set aside.

In a 2-quart saucepan, heat 1 cup of the whipping cream over medium heat just until hot. Gradually stir half of the hot whipping cream into the egg yolk mixture. Then, gradually stir the yolk mixture into the hot cream in the saucepan. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens. Do not boil. Add chocolate chip and stir until completely melted.

Transfer mixture to bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing wrap onto surface of chocolate mixture. Refrigerate about 2 hours until chilled.

In a separate chilled mixing bowl, beat 1 ½ cups whipping cream with an electric mixer on high speed until it forms stiff peaks. Gently fold the chilled chocolate mixture into the whipped cream until well combined. Spoon into serving bowls; garnish with fresh fruit, if desired.

Adapted from bettycrocker.com