Caramel mousse is an absolute delight—rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. With just three ingredients, this silky dessert comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re throwing a dinner party or craving something sweet for yourself, this mousse offers a luxurious texture and indulgent flavor that will please anyone.
The velvety combination of white chocolate, heavy cream, and caramel creates a heavenly treat that melts in your mouth. It’s also an excellent make-ahead dessert; you can prepare it the night before and let it set, freeing you up to enjoy your company or relax in the evening.
Why you’ll love caramel mousse
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Rich and decadent flavor
- Perfect for special occasions
- Minimal cleanup required
- Make-ahead for convenience
What ingredients do I need for caramel mousse?
- 100 g white chocolate
- 300 ml heavy cream
- 60 g caramel (or dulce de leche)
- ⅓ cup caramel (or dulce de leche)
- 20 g white chocolate
Ingredient notes & swaps
- White chocolate: Provides a sweet, creamy base but can be swapped with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Heavy cream: Essential for a light, airy texture; alternatives like coconut cream can work for a non-dairy option.
- Caramel: Caramel and dulce de leche are interchangeable, adding a sweet, caramelized flavor.
How do I make caramel mousse step-by-step?
To make caramel mousse, melt the white chocolate, whip the cream, and fold them together with caramel. This simple process delivers a dreamy dessert in just a few steps.
- Melt 100 g of white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, beat 300 ml heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the melted chocolate and 60 g caramel (or dulce de leche) into the whipped cream until combined.
- Spoon the mixture into serving dishes and chill in the refrigerator until set.
- For extra presentation, drizzle ⅓ cup caramel (or dulce de leche) on top and sprinkle with grated 20 g white chocolate before serving.
Pro Tip: If you want a decorative touch, use a piping bag to add the mousse to the serving dishes for a more refined look.
How should I serve it?
Serve your caramel mousse in individual glasses or bowls, drizzled with caramel sauce. You might also consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the flavor. Pair with fresh berries for a pop of color and a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Yes, caramel mousse is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir if it separates slightly before serving, and add fresh caramel sauce or toppings.
How do I fix common issues?
If your mousse is too runny, it may be that the cream wasn’t whipped enough or the chocolate didn’t cool properly when combined. To thicken it up, try chilling it longer. If it tastes bland, consider a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
What variations can I try?
You can enhance your caramel mousse by adding a splash of espresso for a mocha flavor or folding in crushed cookies for added texture. Experiment with flavored extracts like vanilla or almond to customize it to your taste.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead?
Yes, milk chocolate can be used instead of white chocolate, but it will alter the flavor and sweetness level, making the mousse less creamy.
How long can I keep it in the fridge?
Caramel mousse can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate texture.
Is this dessert suitable for kids?
Definitely! The sweet and creamy nature of caramel mousse makes it a favorite among children, but keep in mind the potential for allergies related to chocolate and dairy.
Caramel Mousse
Ingredients
Method
- Melt 100 g of white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, beat 300 ml heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the melted chocolate and 60 g caramel into the whipped cream until combined.
- Spoon the mixture into serving dishes and chill in the refrigerator until set.
- For extra presentation, drizzle ⅓ cup caramel on top and sprinkle with grated 20 g white chocolate before serving.