Dreamy Chocolate Mousse

A coworker shared this recipe. I made half a batch last night, and now that I know how simple it is to make...it might be dangerous.

It's decadent, smooth, creamy and delicious. I'm dreaming up ways to tweak it a little. Like drizzling in a little amaretto liquor, slathering it between layers of chocolate cake, topping the cake with chocolate ganache sprinkled with almond slivers. Or dolloping onto angel food cake with strawberries. Or mixing in a little strong, cold coffee for mocha mousse.

Or, most likely, I'll enjoy it just as it is. A spoonful or two is really all you need for a chocolate fix. (Or maybe just a few more spoonfuls). To balance things out, I'm glad to have picked my first zucchini and squash from the garden this afternoon! :)

Dreamy Chocolate Mousse
Makes 4 1/2 cups

1 envelope unflavored gelatin
3 tablespoons cold water
1/4 cup boiling water
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups heavy whipping cream

1. In a small bowl, soften gelatin in 3 tablespoons cold water. Let stand for 2 minutes. Add 1/4 cup boiling water, stirring until gelatin dissolves. Set aside.

2. In a small bowl, combine sugar and cocoa powder.

3. In a medium bowl, beat cream at medium speed with an electric mixer until foamy. Gradually add sugar mixture, beating until stiff peaks form. Stir (or beat) in gelatin mixture. Cover and chill 4 hours. (The waiting was the hardest part)!