American Style Chocolate Mousse

Steps

1. Finely chop 6 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate.
2. Melt the chocolate using a double boiler (or microwave in 20-second increments).
3. Add 1/2 cup heavy cream to the melted chocolate and stir until fully smooth.
4. Remove from heat and let the chocolate cool to room temperature.
5. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of kosher salt until soft peaks form.
6. Add a third of the whipped cream to the cooled chocolate and stir to lighten.
7. Fold in the remaining whipped cream until smooth and silky with no streaks.
8. Portion the mousse into individual glasses or ramekins.
9. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably 2+ hours) until set.
10. Before serving, top with freshly whipped cream and optional garnishes such as chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or flaky sea salt.