Description
This Salted Caramel Mousse is a luscious, creamy dessert combining rich caramel custard with a light whipped cream topping. The recipe involves making a smooth salted caramel base, tempering egg yolks for a custard-like mousse, and folding in whipped cream to deliver a decadent, airy dessert perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Sauce
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
Caramel Custard
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Make the caramel sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water, stirring gently to dissolve. Increase heat to bring to a boil without stirring until deep amber color forms, about 4-5 minutes. Immediately remove from heat; carefully add butter and salt, stirring until smooth. Gradually whisk in 1 cup heavy cream, being cautious of bubbling. Set aside to cool briefly.
- Temper and cook egg yolks: Whisk egg yolks in a bowl. Slowly add small amounts of warm caramel mixture to yolks while whisking to temper and avoid scrambling. Combine all caramel into yolks. Return mixture to saucepan; cook over medium heat, whisking for 3-5 minutes until thickened and coating the back of a spoon.
- Cool and refrigerate custard: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm.
- Make whipped topping: Beat 1 cup heavy cream, powdered sugar, and salt in a bowl until soft peaks form. Continue beating to stiff peaks without overwhipping.
- Combine mousse components: Gently fold whipped cream into chilled caramel custard until smooth and fully incorporated. Spoon mousse into serving dishes.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate mousse for at least 2 hours to set. Serve chilled, optionally topped with extra whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Notes
- Be cautious when handling hot caramel; it can cause severe burns.
- Temper egg yolks carefully to avoid scrambling.
- Use chilled heavy cream for best whipping results.
- Adjust salt amount to taste for the perfect balance of sweet and salty.
- For extra flair, garnish with sea salt flakes or caramel drizzle before serving.
