These triple-layered no-bake chocolate mousse bars are a dream dessert for any chocolate lover. They feature a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, a creamy and airy mousse filling, and a silky chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for any occasion, these indulgent bars come together effortlessly without needing an oven!
Why I Love This Recipe
No baking required – perfect for warm days or when I don’t feel like turning on the oven.
Rich and creamy texture – the combination of mousse and ganache creates an ultra-smooth bite.
Simple ingredients – everything needed is easy to find at the grocery store.
Great for make-ahead – since these need time to chill, they’re ideal for preparing in advance.
Customizable toppings – I can add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or even fresh berries.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
½ cup melted butter
For the Mousse Filling:
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Layer:
¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream
For the Topping:
½ cup whipped cream
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Crust:
In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish.
Refrigerate while preparing the mousse filling.
Make the Mousse:
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, melted chocolate, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
Spread the mousse evenly over the chilled crust.
Refrigerate while preparing the next layer.
Add the Chocolate Layer:
Heat the heavy cream until warm but not boiling.
Pour the warm cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the mousse layer, spreading evenly.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Garnish & Serve:
Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Slice into bars and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Calories per bar: 320 kcal
Variations
Dark Chocolate Twist – Swap semisweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Mint Chocolate – Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the mousse for a refreshing twist.
Nutty Crunch – Mix in finely chopped hazelnuts or almonds into the crust for added texture.
Coffee Infused – Stir a teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the mousse for a mocha version.
White Chocolate Option – Replace the mousse chocolate with white chocolate for a lighter variation.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Serving Tip: If the bars are too firm straight from the fridge, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.
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FAQs
How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?
Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass. Chilling it well before adding the mousse helps it hold together.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate?
Yes, but it will make the bars slightly sweeter. If using milk chocolate, I recommend reducing the powdered sugar slightly in the mousse.
How do I make these bars firmer?
For a firmer mousse texture, whip the heavy cream separately before folding it into the melted chocolate mixture. This will create a more structured mousse.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars actually taste better after chilling overnight, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
What can I use instead of chocolate cookie crumbs?
Graham cracker crumbs, crushed Oreos (without the filling), or even digestive biscuits work well as substitutes.
Conclusion
These no-bake chocolate mousse bars are a decadent and effortless treat, perfect for chocolate lovers. With their rich layers and creamy texture, they’re great for special occasions or as a simple indulgence. Whether making them ahead for a gathering or enjoying them as a personal treat, these bars are sure to satisfy any sweet craving.
📖 Recipe:
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No-Bake Chocolate Mousse Bars
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (Plus chilling)
- Yield: 12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These triple-layered no-bake chocolate mousse bars are a dream dessert for chocolate lovers! With a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, an airy mousse filling, and a silky ganache topping, these indulgent bars come together effortlessly—no oven required. Perfect for parties, make-ahead desserts, or satisfying sweet cravings!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
½ cup melted butter
For the Mousse Filling:
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Layer:
¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream
For the Topping:
½ cup whipped cream
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter.
- Press firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish.
- Refrigerate while making the mousse filling.
- Make the Mousse:
- Beat heavy cream, melted chocolate, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy.
- Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
- Refrigerate while making the chocolate layer.
- Add the Chocolate Layer:
- Heat heavy cream until warm (not boiling).
- Pour over chocolate chips, let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
- Spread evenly over the mousse layer.
- Chill for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings (optional).
- Slice into bars and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 bars
- Calories: 320 kcal
