Kayla LaManna's Chocolate Mousse

The Dessert Everyone Asked About

When Melbourne cook Kayla LaManna set her table with our Dinnerware Collection, the pasta got the photos. The chocolate mousse got the questions.

So here it is, as promised. It's the dessert Kayla makes the night before, sets in one big bowl and carries to the table at the end of the night - rich, airy and finished with strawberries, cream and a pinch of flaky sea salt.

If you missed it, catch up on Kayla's Dinner Party hosting tips first.

Why It Works for Hosting

Kayla's number one hosting tip is to prep a day or two ahead, and this mousse is built for exactly that. Made ahead, set overnight, served in one bowl.

It means the oven's free for mains, the bench is clear by the time guests arrive, and dessert is already done before the first glass is poured. When it's time, the whole bowl comes to the table and everyone helps themselves (seconds encouraged).

Ingredients

• 450 ml thickened cream
• 6 large eggs, separated
• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
• 80 g caster sugar
• 300 g milk chocolate
• 300 g dark chocolate
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Optional: 200g chopped chocolate 
  

To serve 

• Whipped cream
• Strawberries

Method

1. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and set aside.

2. In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites with the cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add the caster sugar and continue whisking until stiff and glossy.

3. Melt the milk and dark chocolate together until completely smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.

4. Add a generous spoonful of the whipped cream to the chocolate, followed by the egg yolks, vanilla and salt. Whisk until combined.

5. Fold through the remaining whipped cream.

6. Gently fold through half the whipped egg whites, then the remaining half, taking care not to knock out all that air.

7. If using, gently fold in your chopped chocolate.

8. Spoon into a large serving bowl, cover and refrigerate overnight to set. 

9. Bring the whole bowl to the table and serve generous spoonfuls into your Hommey bowls, with flaky sea salt, strawberries and cream. 

Find Kayla

Find Kayla on Instagram and TikTok at @whatwouldkaylacook, and find more of her recipes over on her website.

There's no right way to set the table, as long as it feels like you. Set the table. Start the show.