Easy Chocolate Mousse Cups (Just 3 Ingredients!)

These easy chocolate mousse cups are so easy to make and a dessert that everyone will love. It's such a simple dessert to put together and perfect for all you chocolate lovers out there. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced baker looking for a quick sweet treat, this no-bake dessert will satisfy your chocolate cravings in no time!

You'll love these chocolate mousse cups

They're easy to make. Just 3 ingredients are all you need for this rich chocolate mousse. It's such a decadent dessert with little to no effort. Who doesn't love that? No double boiler, no egg yolks—these 3-ingredient chocolate mousse cups come together in no time. Perfect for those who love an indulgent dessert without the hassle of traditional mousse recipes.

They can be customized. These chocolate mousse cups are great on their own, or you can really dress them up with fresh berries, whipped cream, and more! I've included some creative topping and mix-in ideas below to help you make this dessert your own.

They're perfect for any occasion! Whether you're looking for a Valentine's Day dessert, a date night sweet treat, a holiday party dessert, or just because, these are the perfect treat! They look elegant when served in small dessert cups and make an excellent make-ahead option for entertaining.

Ingredients

With a few simple ingredients, this will soon be your favorite chocolate mousse recipe. 

Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix. Jell-O brand works great, but any instant chocolate pudding mix will do.

Cold Milk. Helps the pudding set and creates the perfect mousse texture

Cool Whip. Adds that light and fluffy consistency we love in mousse.

Crushed Oreos (Optional). For an extra layer of texture and crunch!

How to make chocolate mousse cups

1. Whisk together the Jell-O chocolate pudding mix and cold milk in a mixing bowl for about 2 minutes until it thickens. 
2. Gently fold the Cool Whip into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated and has a fluffy texture. I recommend using a rubber spatula. 
3. Spoon some crushed Oreos into the bottom of serving cups (if using). Layer the chocolate mousse on top.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. I recommend placing all the small cups on a baking sheet and covering the baking sheet with plastic wrap.
5. Before serving, top with whipped cream and extra crushed Oreos if desired.

Best cups to serve chocolate mousse cups in?

I served these mini chocolate mousse cups in these plastic square dessert cups! It's a 5 oz cup, the perfect serving size! Other great serving options include:

• Small glass cups or plain glass shot glasses
• Mason jars for a rustic touch
• Martini glasses for a fancy dinner party vibe

Topping ideas for chocolate mousse cups

• Chocolate Shavings: Use a vegetable peeler to shave chocolate from a chocolate bar.
• Cocoa Powder: Lightly dust the top for a classic look.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a fresh contrast.
• Cookie Crumbles: Crushed Oreos, graham crackers, or Biscoff cookies for extra crunch.
• Chopped Nuts: Almonds, peanuts, or hazelnuts for texture.
• Caramel or Chocolate Drizzle: Elevates the mousse with extra richness.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop on top makes everything better!

Substitutions and variations

There are so many different ways you could switch up this chocolate mousse recipe. Here are some of my favorites!

White Chocolate Mousse. Instead of milk chocolate pudding, use white chocolate instant pudding mix for a sweet and creamy twist.

Dark Chocolate Mousse. If you love a richer taste, swap out milk chocolate pudding for dark chocolate instant pudding mix.

Peanut Butter Mousse. I love the idea of making both chocolate mousse and peanut butter mousse so you have a peanut butter chocolate dessert cups moment. You can top with Reese's or Reese's Pieces to really elevate things!

Jam or Jelly. You can layer the chocolate mousse with strawberry or raspberry jelly for a little chocolate fruity moment. 

Peppermint Chocolate Mousse. This is my FAVORITE holiday flavor.  Add a splash of peppermint extract to your mousse for a refreshing chocolate-mint flavor, and then top with whipped cream, a chocolate syrup drizzle and chunks of peppermint candy. 

Storing leftover chocolate mousse cups

Chocolate mousse will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also store them in the freezer. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Simply let them thaw in the fridge before serving.

​Can I make this chocolate mousse ahead of time? 

Absolutely! These mousse cups can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I mix chocolate pudding with cool whip?

You can! I recommend mixing instant pudding powder with Cool Whip to get that desired mousse consistency. 

What's the difference between chocolate mousse and pudding?

Mousse is must lighter and airier whereas pudding is more dense. 

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Want more easy dessert recipes?

• This s'mores snack mix is another great no-bake recipe that is such a crowd-pleaser! 
• Who doesn't love pizza and Nutella? How about together? This strawberry Nutella pizza is so easy to make!
• For my white chocolate lovers out there, you have to try this copycat Nothing Bundt Cake white chocolate raspberry recipe.