Sunday, December 14, 2014

Chocolate Whiskey Mousse

I brought this dessert to a dinner party last night.  It is simple, elegant and rich in flavor.

Ingredients

4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 Tablespoons butter
2 Tablespoons strong coffee
2 Tablespoons whiskey
2 large eggs, separated
4 Tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream

Optional Garnish Suggestions:
Whipped cream
Cocoa powder
Chocolate shavings
Dried cherries soaked in sweet vermouth (1:1 combination, allowed to soak for several hours)

Instructions

Melt chocolate with butter and coffee in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water.
When melted and combined, remove from heat and stir in whiskey.

Whisk egg yolks with 2 Tablespoons sugar in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water, just to cook them slightly.  Whisk constantly until the mixture is foamy.

Beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually beat in 2 Tablespoons sugar.
Fold into chocolate mixture.

Beat whipping cream until soft peaks form and fold into the mixture
Combine well and divide among serving glasses. Refrigerate 1 - 2 hours before serving.
Garnish right before serving.

This recipe serves four. For a special presentation, serve in martini glasses.