Not Ice Cream: Greek Yogurt Chocolate Mousse

I love making ice cream that’s lower in sugar and higher in protein, but it’s still ice cream, with significant fat and sugar. Lately the husband and I have been on a health kick and wanted some dessert options that are better for us. Thus, a new series: “not ice cream.” I have a few great recipes to share for mousses and puddings based on Greek yogurt or silken tofu, which are lower in fat, sugar, and calories compared with my “improved” ice cream. I’m also adding nutrition information below the recipe. First up: Greek Yogurt Chocolate Mousse.

My recipe is based on Maria Speck’s recipe which appeared on Food 52. I’ve kept the backbone of the recipe, while changing the flavoring and nutritional profile. The basic recipe is only 3 ingredients: plain Greek yogurt, melted chocolate, and milk. After that, you can add sweetener, other flavorings, etc. I’ve written the recipe below the way I make it most of the time, but here are some ways you can customize the recipe for your own taste:

Chocolate — You can anything from milk to dark. If you use milk chocolate, you might not need to add sweetener. With dark chocolate, you will probably need a little.

Milk — I use unflavored, unsweetened almond milk, but use anything you like, dairy or non-dairy.

Greek yogurt — The yogurt must be Greek style and plain. Vanilla yogurt might work, although it would be sweeter, and I haven’t tried it. The original recipe says not to use non-fat yogurt, but I always use it and it’s fine. Use any Greek-style yogurt you choose, from non-fat up to full-fat.

Sweetener — I use maple syrup, but many options would work. I avoid granulated sugar, because I don’t think it will fully dissolve. Honey, agave syrup, or powdered sugar should also work well.

Flavorings — The original recipes calls for orange liqueur and orange marmalade. I’m not a fan of the chocolate-orange combo, so I skip that option, but you might like it. Some other flavorings to consider are:

• Liquor (spiced rum, whiskey, etc.) or liqueur (Irish cream, Khalua, Grand Marnier, etc.)
• Espresso powder
• Cinnamon, cardamom, or other spices
• Caramel topping (try my vegan caramel recipe here)
• Almond, maple, or vanilla extract
• Peanut butter (a spoonful melted with the chocolate)
• Olive oil (it’s great with chocolate)

A note on the texture… This is not a fluffy, airy mousse. This is a rich, dense mousse (which I love).

I hope you enjoy customizing this super-easy, healthy, rich, chocolate dessert!