Name: Chocolate Lemon Mousse Dome
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-486187H36S
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 6 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons gelatin (or agar-agar for a vegetarian option); 1 1/2 cups crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers (optional); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (optional)

This decadent chocolate lemon mousse dome features a velvety chocolate mousse base topped with a refreshing lemon mousse, creating a perfect balance of rich and citrus flavors. A show-stopping dessert for any special occasion, it combines the richness of chocolate with the tangy brightness of lemon, delivering a treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Mousse:

6 oz dark chocolate, chopped

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Mousse:

1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

2 teaspoons lemon zest

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 teaspoons gelatin (or agar-agar for a vegetarian option)

For the Base (Optional):

1 1/2 cups crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse:

Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a simmering pot of water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate until fully combined. Set the mixture aside to cool.

Prepare the Lemon Mousse:

In a small saucepan, gently heat the lemon juice and zest over low heat. Once warm, dissolve the gelatin in the lemon mixture (if using agar-agar, follow the package instructions for the same step).

Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Slowly fold the cooled lemon mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined.

Prepare the Base (Optional):

Combine the crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers with the melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a round mold or dome-shaped pan to form a crust.

Chill the crust in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to set.

Assemble the Mousse Dome:

Once the base is set (if using), layer the chocolate mousse into the mold, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Gently spoon the lemon mousse on top of the chocolate mousse, smoothing the surface.

Refrigerate the mousse dome for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.

Serve:

Once fully set, carefully unmold the mousse dome onto a serving platter.

If desired, garnish with additional lemon zest, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 4+ hours (including chilling)

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Use white chocolate: For a lighter version, substitute the dark chocolate with white chocolate to create a different flavor profile.

Fruit flavors: If you’re not a fan of lemon, you can easily swap the lemon mousse for a berry mousse, such as strawberry or raspberry, to give it a fruity twist.

Gluten-Free Base: If you want to keep it gluten-free, use gluten-free cookies or omit the crust entirely.

Add a liqueur: For a grown-up twist, you can add a tablespoon of a liqueur like Grand Marnier or Chambord to the chocolate mousse for a richer, more complex flavor.

Storage/Reheating

To store the mousse dome, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It should be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The mousse should be served cold and does not need to be reheated. The texture will remain smooth and creamy when stored correctly.

FAQs

How long can I store the mousse dome?

I recommend storing the mousse dome in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The mousse layers will stay fresh, but it’s best to enjoy it within a few days for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this mousse dome ahead of time?

Yes! I actually prefer making it the night before. This allows the mousse layers to set properly and the flavors to develop. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for parties or special occasions.

Can I use a different flavor for the mousse?

Absolutely! While I love the combination of chocolate and lemon, you can swap the lemon mousse for another fruit-flavored mousse, like raspberry, strawberry, or even passionfruit. Just make sure to adjust the acidity and sweetness accordingly.

Do I need to use gelatin in the lemon mousse?

Gelatin helps the lemon mousse set and gives it that perfect texture. However, if you’re vegetarian, you can use agar-agar as a substitute for gelatin, which works just as well for setting the mousse.

Can I freeze the mousse dome?

Yes, you can freeze the mousse dome. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly change the texture of the mousse.

Conclusion

This chocolate lemon mousse dome is a luxurious and elegant dessert that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its layers of creamy, velvety chocolate mousse and tangy lemon mousse, it strikes the perfect balance between rich and refreshing. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or simply treating yourself, this mousse dome is the perfect choice for a sophisticated dessert.

Recipe: