Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 ½ cups (187.5 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ⅓ cup (39 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks / 170 g) unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Mousse Layer
- 1 ½ cups (357 g) heavy whipping cream, cold, divided
- 1 cup chocolate chips, semi-sweet (or your preference)
- chocolate curls, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix Dry Ingredients for Brownie Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, baking powder, and kosher salt. Set aside.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients for Brownies: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the eggs, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep brownies tender.
- Bake the Brownie Layer: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges appear set but the center is still shiny or slightly moist, indicating fudgy brownies.
- Cool Brownies: Remove brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature before adding the mousse layer.
- Prepare Chocolate Mousse – Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat ½ cup of the heavy cream for about 50 seconds, or until hot but not boiling. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir until smooth and melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Whip Remaining Cream: In a medium bowl, whip the remaining 1 cup of cold heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer until soft peaks form, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form to create a stable mousse base.
- Fold Chocolate Mixture into Whipped Cream: Gently fold the cooled chocolate mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined, preserving the airy texture.
- Assemble Mousse Layer: Spread the chocolate mousse evenly over the cooled brownies, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Garnish and Chill: Optionally, sprinkle chocolate curls on top for decoration. Refrigerate the brownies for at least 2 hours or up to overnight to set the mousse before serving.
Notes
- For fudgier brownies, slightly underbake and check for the characteristic shiny, moist center.
- Chocolate curls can be substituted with shaved chocolate or omitted entirely for a simpler presentation.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for a richer mousse flavor.
- Ensure heavy cream is cold before whipping to achieve best volume and texture.
- Brownies can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American