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A close-up overhead shot of the rich chocolate mousse filling in a glass bowl, highlighting its smooth and creamy texture.

Chocolate Mousse Filling (Perfect for Cakes & Tarts)

A rich, decadent, and perfectly stable Chocolate Mousse Filling recipe. This easy, eggless mousse is designed to hold its shape, making it the perfect filling for layer cakes, tarts, and cupcakes.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 tsp unflavored gelatin
  • 2 tbsp cold water
  • 8 oz high-quality semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate (60-72% cacao) finely chopped
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream very cold
  • 0.5 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 1 Electric Mixer
  • 3 Mixing Bowls
  • 1 Spatula

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the cold water. Set aside for 5-10 minutes to bloom.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly for a few minutes.
  3. Microwave the bloomed gelatin for 5-10 seconds until it is fully liquid. Whisk it immediately into the melted chocolate until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the very cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  5. Gently fold about a third of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Add the remaining whipped cream and fold until just combined and no streaks remain.
  6. Use immediately for a softer mousse, or for a stable cake filling, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.

Notes

Tip 1: Ensure the heavy cream is extremely cold to achieve the best volume and stiffest peaks.
Tip 2: Use high-quality chocolate bars, not chocolate chips, for the smoothest, richest flavor.
Tip 3: Do not over-mix when folding the cream into the chocolate, as this will cause the mousse to lose its light, airy texture.