- Combine avocado, dates, honey, and coconut milk in a food processor. Blend until completely smooth.
- Add cocoa powder, espresso powder, coconut extract, salt, and vanilla extract. Process until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Transfer mixture to a mixing bowl and whip for 4-5 minutes until light and fluffy. (An electric mixer is recommended for best results.)
- Divide into serving glasses, garnish with berries and mint. Chill for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.
- Calories:435 kcal25%
- Energy:1820 kJ22%
- Protein:5 g28%
- Carbohydrates:63 mg40%
- Sugar:48 mg8%
- Salt:162 g25%
- Fat:23 g20%
Last Updated on 1 month by Neha Deshmukh
Avocado Chocolate Mousse Recipe – Easy Coconut & Espresso Delight
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a dessert that feels indulgent but doesn’t leave you with a mountain of guilt. Well, let me tell you, this Avocado Chocolate Mousse is it! It’s unbelievably creamy, rich, and chocolatey – and you’d never guess the secret ingredient. Seriously, don’t tell anyone it’s avocado until after they’ve devoured it! I first made this when I was trying to sneak more healthy fats into my family’s diet, and it’s been a hit ever since.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This mousse is a game-changer. It’s ready in just 5 minutes (plus chilling time, of course!), requires no baking, and is surprisingly good for you. It’s the perfect quick dessert for a weeknight treat, a fancy dinner party, or just when you need a little chocolate pick-me-up. Plus, the coconut and espresso add a lovely depth of flavour that takes it beyond your average chocolate mousse.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this dreamy mousse:
- 1 ripe avocado, pitted
- 4 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat recommended)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- Pinch of salt (about 1/8 teaspoon)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients! Getting these right will make all the difference.
Avocado: Choosing the Right Ripeness
You want an avocado that yields to gentle pressure but isn’t mushy. Think perfectly ripe – it should feel a little soft but not overly squishy. A slightly soft avocado blends beautifully and gives the mousse that incredible creamy texture.
Medjool Dates: The Key to Natural Sweetness
Medjool dates are the best for this recipe. They’re soft, caramel-like, and provide a natural sweetness that complements the chocolate perfectly. If your dates are a little dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using.
Coconut Milk: Full-Fat vs. Light & Regional Variations
Full-fat coconut milk is highly recommended for the richest, creamiest mousse. The fat content is what gives it that luxurious texture. You can use light coconut milk if you prefer, but the mousse won’t be quite as decadent. In India, you’ll find many brands of canned coconut milk – I personally like using one that’s a bit thicker.
Cocoa Powder: Dutch-Processed vs. Natural
You can use either Dutch-processed or natural cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa has a smoother, less acidic flavour, while natural cocoa has a more intense chocolate flavour. I usually use Dutch-processed for this recipe, but feel free to experiment!
Espresso Powder: Enhancing the Chocolate Flavor
Don’t skip the espresso powder! It doesn’t make the mousse taste like coffee, but it really enhances the chocolate flavour. It adds a subtle depth that you won’t get otherwise.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get blending!
- First, combine the avocado, dates, honey, and coconut milk in your food processor. Blend away until everything is super smooth and creamy. You might need to scrape down the sides a couple of times.
- Next, add the cocoa powder, espresso powder, coconut extract, salt, and vanilla extract. Process again until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture is a beautiful, even chocolate colour.
- Now, transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl. This is where the magic happens! Whip it with an electric mixer for 4-5 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. You’ll notice it gets noticeably lighter in colour and texture.
- Divide the mousse into serving glasses. I love using small, pretty glasses for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with your favourite berries and a sprig of mint.
- Finally, chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours before serving. This allows the flavours to meld and the mousse to set properly. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Expert Tips
- For an extra smooth mousse, make sure your avocado is perfectly ripe.
- Don’t over-blend the mixture, or it might become too liquidy.
- If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a high-powered blender.
Variations
This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:
Vegan Adaptation
To make this mousse vegan, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Chili)
My friend Priya loves adding a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. It’s surprisingly delicious!
Festival Adaptations (Valentine’s Day, Diwali Sweet Treat)
For Valentine’s Day, I like to decorate with heart-shaped sprinkles. During Diwali, a sprinkle of chopped nuts and a tiny silver leaf (vark) makes it a festive treat.
Gluten-Free Confirmation
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it.
Serving Suggestions
This mousse is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:
- Fresh berries
- A sprinkle of chopped nuts
- A dollop of coconut whipped cream
- A few chocolate shavings
Storage Instructions
Store leftover mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It might thicken slightly as it sits, but it will still be delicious!
FAQs
Let’s answer some common questions:
Is this mousse healthy?
Compared to traditional chocolate mousse, yes! It’s packed with healthy fats from the avocado, natural sweetness from the dates, and antioxidants from the cocoa powder.
Can I make this mousse ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have espresso powder?
You can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of instant coffee granules.
Can I use a different type of milk?
You can try almond milk or oat milk, but the flavour and texture will be different. Coconut milk really is the best option for this recipe.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the mousse?
Add more or less honey to taste. You can also use a different sweetener, like maple syrup.
What is the best way to garnish this mousse?
Fresh berries and mint are always a classic choice. You can also get creative with chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Enjoy! I hope you love this Avocado Chocolate Mousse as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!