Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan) Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that feels luxurious yet is completely plant-based, let me introduce you to this amazing Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan). It’s a delightfully silky-smooth mousse made from ripe avocados and creamy hazelnut butter, delivering an indulgent but light texture that melts in your mouth. The natural sweetness from maple syrup and the rich depth of cacao powder combine beautifully to create a dessert that feels both decadent and nourishing, perfect for sharing with friends or a quiet moment of self-indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of this ingredient list fool you; each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect taste, texture, and color of your Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan). With just a few wholesome pantry staples, you’ll craft an irresistible treat that feels both elegant and comforting.

• Ripe avocados: These provide the creamy, smooth base with healthy fats and a subtle richness that mimics traditional mousse texture.
• Hazelnut butter: Adds nutty depth and natural sweetness, elevating the flavor profile brilliantly.
• Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that balances the cacao’s bitterness without overpowering the mousse.
• Cacao powder: Gives the mousse its rich chocolate flavor and intense color, ensuring a truly decadent experience.
• Coconut cream: Enhances the silkiness and lends a gentle tropical note, making the mousse even more luscious.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors for a well-balanced dessert.
• Pinch of sea salt: Elevates all the flavors, bringing out the subtle nuances in each ingredient.
• Toppings (optional): Crushed roasted hazelnuts, dark chocolate shavings, and fresh raspberries add delightful textures and bursts of flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan)

Step 1: Blend the Mousse

Start by placing your ripe avocados, hazelnut butter, maple syrup, cacao powder, coconut cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt into a food processor. Blend everything together until you achieve a perfectly smooth and airy texture. This step is crucial because the blending creates the mousse’s signature silkiness, and you’ll want to scrape the sides occasionally to ensure no lumps remain.

Step 2: Adjust Sweetness

Give the mousse mixture a little taste test. Depending on your preference and the ripeness of your avocados, you might want to add a bit more maple syrup to reach that just-right sweetness. It’s all about balancing the rich chocolate with a gentle sweetness that complements rather than overwhelms.

Step 3: Chill

Once the mousse is blended to creamy perfection, spoon it into small glass cups or serving bowls. Refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the mousse to set slightly and develop a cool, refreshing texture, making each spoonful decadent yet light.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Right before serving your Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan), sprinkle with your choice of toppings—crushed roasted hazelnuts for crunch, dark chocolate shavings for extra decadence, and fresh raspberries for a pop of color and tartness. These garnishes not only make the mousse look irresistible but add delightful layers of flavor and texture.

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan)

Garnishes

Garnishes truly make your mousse shine. I love using freshly crushed roasted hazelnuts to echo the hazelnut butter inside and provide a wonderful crunch. Dark chocolate shavings add elegance and an intense chocolate hit, while fresh raspberries bring a splash of vibrant color and a burst of tangy brightness that perfectly balances the richness.

Side Dishes

While this mousse shines on its own, pairing it with light side dishes can create a complete dessert experience. Try serving it alongside a crisp mint-infused fruit salad, some crunchy biscotti, or even a dollop of coconut whipped cream to complement the creamy texture. These pairings keep the dessert feeling fresh and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fancy dinner party, serve the Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan) in clear glass cups or martini glasses so the luscious layers are visible. You can also layer the mousse with vegan cookie crumbles or fruit compote to create a beautiful parfait. If you’re feeling playful, consider piping the mousse into chocolate cups or onto mini tart shells for individual bites that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan) keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container or cover the serving cups tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other flavors. Before enjoying leftovers, give it a gentle stir to restore its creamy texture if needed.

Freezing

If you wish to enjoy this mousse later, freezing is an option, though the texture might change slightly after thawing. Place the mousse in airtight containers with some space left for expansion. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight. It’s best enjoyed chilled rather than fully frozen to keep its smooth character.

Reheating

This mousse is best served cold, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer it slightly less chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften gently without losing that perfect mousse texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute hazelnut butter with another nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond or peanut butter works well as alternatives if you don’t have hazelnut butter on hand. Each nut butter will bring its own flavor twist but will still create a creamy, delicious mousse.

Is this mousse really healthy despite being indulgent?

Yes! The base of ripe avocados provides healthy fats and fiber, while natural sweeteners like maple syrup replace refined sugars. It’s a dessert indulgence that feels clean, nourishing, and satisfying.

Can I make this mousse nut-free?

You can try substituting the hazelnut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. The texture might vary slightly, but the mousse will still be creamy and tasty.

How long should I chill the mousse before serving?

Chilling for at least one hour in the refrigerator is perfect to allow it to thicken and set properly. If you have more time, letting it chill longer enhances flavors and texture even more.

Can I add other flavors to this Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan)?

Definitely! Adding a tablespoon of espresso powder creates a decadent mocha version, or you might incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a spicy twist. Experimenting is half the fun!

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (vegan) has quickly become one of my all-time favorite treats to whip up whenever I want something indulgent yet wholesome. It’s incredibly simple, deeply satisfying, and always impresses anyone lucky enough to try it. I truly encourage you to make this your go-to dessert for gatherings or cozy nights in—you won’t regret it!