Hey y'all! If you crave creamy, chocolatey desserts with a kick of coffee, these No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups will totally win your heart. They're rich, smooth, and come together without turning on the oven—perfect for parties, potlucks, or weeknight sweet cravings. Ready to wow your friends and family with an effortless yet impressive treat? Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups Recipe
- Rich, decadent chocolate-coffee flavor that's totally irresistible.
- No oven needed—perfect for warm weather or quick desserts.
- Super easy to prepare with only a few everyday ingredients.
- Elegant presentation makes them ideal for entertaining.
- Customizable—add your favorite toppings or swap in flavors you love!
Ingredients for No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups
- 1 cup (170g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream, divided
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: chocolate shavings, whipped cream, cocoa powder, espresso beans
How to Make No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the semisweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted (about 1-2 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Dissolve Espresso
In a small bowl, whisk together the instant espresso powder and hot water until dissolved. Stir this espresso mixture into the melted chocolate until thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat on medium-high until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 4: Fold and Assemble
Gently fold the chocolate-espresso mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the mousse. Mix until just combined and no white streaks remain.
Step 5: Pipe and Chill
Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving cups or ramekins. For best texture, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, whip the remaining ½ cup cream to soft peaks and pipe or spoon on top of each mousse cup. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or an espresso bean for a lovely finish. Enjoy chilled!
Notes for Perfect No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups
- For best results, use high-quality chocolate chips for a rich, smooth flavor. Learn more about choosing the best chocolate.
- Dissolving espresso powder fully ensures no gritty texture—use hot (not boiling) water for smooth results.
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for faster and fluffier peaks. For more tips, visit how to whip cream.
Variations on No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups
- Spiked Mocha Mousse: Add 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur or Irish cream to the chocolate mixture before folding into the cream.
- Vegan Mocha Mousse: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free chocolate.
- Mocha Mousse Parfait: Layer the mousse with crushed cookies or brownie bites for a fun twist.
Required Equipment for No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (hand or stand mixer)
- Spatula
- Piping bag (optional)
- Serving cups or ramekins
Storage Instructions for No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups
Cover the mousse cups tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Serving Recommendations for No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups
- Top each cup with lightly whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for a classic look.
- Pair with fresh berries or a biscotti for a delightful dessert platter.
- Serve alongside a shot of espresso or your favorite after-dinner coffee.
Pro Tips for No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups
- Let the mousse set for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better for extra creamy texture.
- Fold gently and thoroughly for a silky, airy mousse—over-mixing can deflate the cream.
- Want to learn about mousse textures? Check out this guide to making mousse.
No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups FAQ
- Can I make No-Bake Mocha Mousse Cups in advance?
- Absolutely! Prepare up to 2 days ahead and keep them chilled until ready to serve.
- Can I use brewed coffee instead of espresso powder?
- Espresso powder is best for concentrated flavor, but you can substitute 2 tablespoons of very strong brewed coffee—just reduce the added water slightly.
- What chocolate works best for this recipe?
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips melt smoothly and offer the perfect balance of sweetness and depth.
Prep time: 15 minutes | Chill time: 2 hours | Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for garnish
Instructions
-
1In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and milk. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.
-
2In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and instant espresso powder until smooth and creamy.
-
3Add the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined.
-
4In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mocha mixture until fully incorporated.
-
5Spoon or pipe the mousse into 4 serving cups. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
-
6Garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!