Recipe: Red Velvet Mousse with Vanilla Whipped Cream (microwave)

RED VELVET MOUSSE WITH VANILLA WHIPPED CREAM

"Luxurious chocolate mousse with a red velvet tint is the perfect Valentine's Day dessert."

4 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate, coarsely chopped
2 1/4 cups heavy (whipping) cream, divided use
1 tablespoon red food color
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Vanilla Whipped Cream (recipe follows)

Microwave chocolate in medium microwaveable bowl on HIGH 1 minute; stir. Microwave additional 30 seconds at a time, stirring until chocolate is smooth and melted.

Add 1/4 cup heavy cream; stir until smooth. Stir in food color and vanilla. Let stand 10 minutes to cool slightly.

Beat the remaining 2 cups cream and granulated sugar in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form. Gently stir in 1/2 of the chocolate mixture with spatula until well blended. Gently stir in remaining chocolate mixture. Spoon into dessert dishes. Cover. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serve Vanilla Whipped Cream on the mousse.

VANILLA WHIPPED CREAM

1/2 cup heavy (whipping) cream
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Beat heavy cream, confectioners' sugar and vanilla in medium bowl with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.

Makes 8 servings
Source: McCormick