Decadent Chocolate Lovers Delight

Celebrate Valentine's Day with this rich and indulgent chocolate dessert. The combination of velvety chocolate mousse, fudgy brownies, and creamy whipped cream will satisfy any chocolate lover's sweet tooth. It's the perfect treat to show your loved one how much you care.

Ingredients

• For the brownie layer:
• - 1 cup unsalted butter
• - 2 cups granulated sugar
• - 4 large eggs
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• - 1 cup all-purpose flour
• - 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• - 1/4 teaspoon salt
• - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• For the chocolate mousse layer:
• - 1 cup heavy cream
• - 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the whipped cream topping:
• - 1 cup heavy cream
• - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• - Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar until well combined.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chopped nuts, if desired.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownie layer to cool completely.
6. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Pour the chocolate mousse mixture over the cooled brownie layer. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
8. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chocolate mousse layer.
9. Garnish with chocolate shavings. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Interesting Facts