Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of freshly baked chocolate fills the air as I remember that first bite of the Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart—it was love at first taste! This dessert is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful marriage of smooth minty mousse and a rich chocolate graham crust, effortlessly making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. What makes this tart truly special is how easy it is to whip up while impressing your guests without breaking a sweat. Perfect for cozy nights or festive celebrations, this creation guarantees smiles all around. Are you ready to indulge in a slice of chocolatey mint paradise? Let’s dive in! Why is this tart a must-try? Decadent Delight: This Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart is an indulgent dessert that balances rich chocolate with refreshing mint, making it perfect for any occasion. Easy to Make: The straightforward process means you don’t need to be a professional chef—if you can mix and fold, you’re good to go! Versatile Variations: Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option or want to switch up the crust with an Oreo base, this recipe is adaptable to your preferences. Impressive Presentation: With its glossy glaze and fluffy mousse, this tart is sure to steal the show at your next gathering, leaving your guests asking for seconds. For a fun pairing, consider serving with a warm mug of Pink Hot Chocolate for a delightful twist on classic flavors! Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart Ingredients For the Chocolate Crust Chocolate Graham Crackers – Base for the crust, providing delightful chocolate flavor; if unavailable, substitutable with an Oreo crust recipe. Melted Butter – Binds the crust together, ensuring it holds its shape. Sugar – Adds sweetness and enhances the flavor of the crust. For the Peppermint Mousse Unflavored Gelatin – Stabilizes the mousse, giving it that dreamy texture. Cold Water – Activates the gelatin for proper blooming. White Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and a creamy texture, complementing the dark chocolate. Milk/Half and Half/Cream – Creates a silky, smooth consistency for the mousse. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the mousse, balancing the rich flavors. Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds volume and richness, whipped to medium-stiff peaks for fluffiness. Pure Peppermint Oil – Infuses the mousse with a refreshing mint flavor; adjust quantity if using extract based on its potency. For the Dark Chocolate Glaze Heavy Whipping Cream – Forms the base of the glaze, adding luxurious richness. Bittersweet or Dark Chocolate (70% cocoa) – Provides a deeply indulgent chocolate flavor that melts in your mouth. Light Corn Syrup – Adds shine to the glaze, making it visually appealing. Very Warm Water – Adjusts the consistency for easy pouring, ensuring an even coat. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart Step 1: Prepare the Crust Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed chocolate graham crackers with melted butter and sugar, mixing until the crumbs are moistened. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a tart pan, forming a compact layer. Bake for 10 minutes until set, then allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before filling. Step 2: Make the Mousse In a small bowl, bloom unflavored gelatin by sprinkling it over cold water; let it sit for 5 minutes. Gently heat the mixture until the gelatin fully dissolves, ensuring not to boil it. Melt white chocolate chips in short bursts in the microwave, stirring in warm milk until smooth, then mix in the dissolved gelatin and pure peppermint oil. Cool this mixture to about 85°F (29°C). Step 3: Whip Cream In a clean mixing bowl, beat heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until medium-stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled chocolate-peppermint mixture in three stages, being careful not to deflate the airy texture. The luxurious mousse for your Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart is now ready to transfer! Step 4: Assemble Spoon the fluffy peppermint mousse into the cooled chocolate crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure the mousse is evenly distributed for a beautiful presentation. Cover the tart lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours or, ideally, overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to set perfectly. Step 5: Prepare Glaze In a saucepan, heat heavy whipping cream until it’s just boiling, then remove from heat. Stir in bittersweet or dark chocolate until fully melted and smooth. Mix in light corn syrup and very warm water to adjust the consistency, ensuring it’s pourable. This glossy glaze will provide a luxurious finish for your Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart. Step 6: Set & Serve Once the glaze is ready and the mousse is set, gently pour the chocolate glaze over the refrigerated tart, covering it evenly. Allow the glazed tart to sit at room temperature for about an hour to let the glaze set properly. When ready to serve, slice the tart into wedges and enjoy the heavenly combination of flavors and textures. Make Ahead Options These luxurious Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tarts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the chocolate crust and peppermint mousse up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake and cool the crust, then make the mousse and transfer it into the crust, covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating it overnight. For optimal quality, ensure the mousse is tightly sealed to avoid air exposure, which can affect its texture. When you’re ready to serve, whip up the glaze, pour it over the chilled tart, and allow it to set at room temperature for about an hour—creating an effortlessly stunning dessert that tastes just as delightful as when freshly made! Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart Variations Feel free to mix things up and make this delectable dessert even more your own—let your creativity shine! Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the mousse and glaze, creating a rich, dairy-free version. Gluten-Free: Switch to gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust; this way, everyone can enjoy a slice without worry. Vegan: Substitute unflavored gelatin with agar-agar to achieve a plant-based dessert. Adjustments may influence the texture slightly, but the taste remains delightful. Flavor Boost: Add a splash of milk or cream liqueur to the mousse for an adult twist that enhances the rich chocolate flavor. Spicy Kick: Consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the chocolate glaze for an unexpected heat that complements the sweetness. Minty Twists: Instead of peppermint, experiment with other extracts like orange or almond; each offers a unique flavor profile that still pairs beautifully with dark chocolate. Decorative Touch: Top your tart with fresh mint leaves or shaved dark chocolate for a stunning visual and added texture, making it truly eye-catching. Serving Suggestions: Pair your tart with a warm mug of Pink Hot Chocolate or complement with Chocolate Chip Cookie bars for a festive vibe! With these variations, you’re sure to create an unforgettable dessert that reflects your personal taste and style. Happy baking! What to Serve with Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart Let the celebrations begin with splendid pairings that elevate your chocolate mint creation to new heights! Fresh Berries: A handful of juicy raspberries or strawberries adds a bright tartness that beautifully complements the sweet richness of the mousse. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delicious contrast, balancing the dark chocolate and mint flavors with its smooth sweetness. Espresso or Coffee: The robust flavors of a freshly brewed cup enhance the chocolate notes, making each bite even more indulgent. Peppermint Tea: A cup of soothing peppermint tea can serve as a refreshing palate cleanser, tying together the dessert’s minty essence. Chocolate Dipped Cookies: Pair with chocolate moon pies or shortbread cookies for an added crunch and delightful texture alongside the creamy tart. Whipped Cream: Adding a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top creates a light and airy touch that complements the tart’s richness. Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love layered flavors, the nutty sweetness of pecan pie bars brings a perfect contrast to the minty mousse. Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly enhances the festive feel, featuring lively acidity that cuts through the mousse’s creaminess and richness. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy delights add a different texture and mild sweetness, balancing the depth of the dark chocolate. Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: A playful nod to your tart’s flavor, these cookies make for an exciting and thematic dessert alongside your masterpiece! Expert Tips for Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart Gelatin Check: Ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved without boiling; this ensures the mousse has the perfect texture. Gentle Folding: When combining whipped cream with the mousse mixture, fold gently to maintain the light and airy quality of the mousse. Cool Completely: Allow the tart to cool fully before adding the glaze; this prevents the glaze from melting and losing its sheen. Room Temperature Slicing: Let the tart sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting to avoid condensation on the glaze and achieve cleaner slices. Flavor Adjustments: For a more intense peppermint flavor, feel free to tweak the amount of peppermint oil. Just remember to adjust based on the strength of the extract if you use that instead. Storage Tips: This Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart can be made a day in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, but allow it to sit out briefly before serving to bring out the flavors. How to Store and Freeze Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart Fridge: Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow it to rest at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to enhance its flavors. Freezer: If you need to freeze it, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Serving Tips: For best results, enjoy the tart soon after making. If necessary, allow a little time for the mousse to regain its optimal texture after refrigeration or freezing. Room Temperature: If refrigerated, let the tart sit out for about 15-20 minutes before slicing to prevent the glaze from sweating and to ensure a clean cut. Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart Recipe FAQs What type of chocolate graham crackers should I use for the crust? I recommend using regular chocolate graham crackers for the crust, as they provide a delightful chocolate flavor. If you can’t find them, an Oreo crust works beautifully as a substitute. Simply crush the Oreos and mix them with melted butter and sugar! How should I store the Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart? Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I find that letting it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving enhances the flavors and prevents the glaze from sweating. Can the Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart be frozen? Yes! To freeze the tart, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving! What should I do if my mousse doesn’t set properly? If the mousse doesn’t set, it may be due to insufficient gelatin. Ensure you allow the gelatin to bloom for at least 5 minutes before dissolving it gently. Additionally, make sure the mix is cooled to about 85°F (29°C) before folding in the whipped cream; this is crucial for achieving that airy texture. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Absolutely! You can easily make a gluten-free version of the Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart by using gluten-free chocolate graham crackers or Oreos for the crust. Just check the packaging to ensure they meet gluten-free standards. Indulge in Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart Bliss This Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart is a delightful blend of rich chocolate and refreshing mint, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsRefrigeration Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Chocolate Crust1 cup Chocolate Graham Crackers If unavailable, substitutable with an Oreo crust recipe.5 tablespoons Melted Butter Binds the crust together.2 tablespoons Sugar Adds sweetness to the crust.Peppermint Mousse1 packet Unflavored Gelatin Stabilizes the mousse.2 tablespoons Cold Water Activates the gelatin.1 cup White Chocolate Chips Adds sweetness and creamy texture.1 cup Milk/Half and Half/Cream Creates a creamy consistency.1 cup Powdered Sugar Sweetens the mousse.1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Whipped to medium-stiff peaks.1 teaspoon Pure Peppermint Oil Infuses the mousse with mint flavor.Dark Chocolate Glaze1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Base of the glaze.6 ounces Bittersweet or Dark Chocolate (70% cocoa) Adds deep chocolate flavor.2 tablespoons Light Corn Syrup Adds shine to the glaze.3 tablespoons Very Warm Water Adjusts the consistency. Equipment Mixing bowlTart PanSaucepanMicrowaveSpatula Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed chocolate graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until moistened. Press evenly into a tart pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool for at least 15 minutes.In a small bowl, bloom unflavored gelatin in cold water for 5 minutes. Gently heat until fully dissolved. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave, stir in warm milk, then mix in dissolved gelatin and peppermint oil. Cool to about 85°F.Beat heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until medium-stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes). Fold whipped cream into the chocolate-peppermint mixture in three stages.Spoon the mousse into the cooled crust, smooth the top, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.In a saucepan, heat heavy whipping cream until boiling, remove, and stir in chocolate until smooth. Mix in corn syrup and warm water until pourable.Pour the glaze over the tart when set, let sit at room temperature for about an hour to set before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 5gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, enjoy the tart soon after making. If refrigerated, let sit out for 15-20 minutes before slicing to prevent sweating. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!