When it comes to festive desserts that feel indulgent yet elegant, few creations compare to a Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart. This dessert brings together everything we crave during the colder months: rich chocolate flavor, a cool burst of peppermint, and a silky-smooth mousse nestled inside a crisp chocolate crust. Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner, a winter celebration, or simply want a dessert that feels luxurious without being overly complicated, this tart delivers on all fronts.

Chocolate and peppermint are a timeless pairing, especially popular during the holiday season. The bitterness of dark chocolate balances the refreshing brightness of peppermint, creating a dessert that feels both decadent and refreshing at the same time. Unlike heavy cakes or overly sweet pies, a mousse tart feels light on the palate while still offering deep, satisfying flavor.

This recipe is designed to be approachable for home bakers while still yielding bakery-worthy results. With a no-fuss crust, a luscious chocolate peppermint mousse filling, and simple garnishes, this tart looks impressive without requiring advanced pastry skills.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart

This dessert isn’t just beautiful—it’s practical, versatile, and crowd-pleasing.

First, the texture contrast is irresistible. The crisp chocolate cookie crust provides structure, while the mousse filling is airy, creamy, and smooth. Each bite melts in your mouth with a cool peppermint finish.

Second, it’s an ideal make-ahead dessert. The tart needs time to chill and set, which means you can prepare it the day before your event and focus on entertaining rather than last-minute baking.

Finally, it’s incredibly flexible. You can make it as a full tart for slicing, mini tarts for individual servings, or even as a layered dessert in jars using the same components.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Crust

Chocolate sandwich cookies (finely crushed)
Unsalted butter, melted

For the Chocolate Peppermint Mousse

High-quality dark chocolate, chopped
Heavy whipping cream, divided
Powdered sugar
Pure peppermint extract
Vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For Garnish (Optional but Recommended)

Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Chocolate curls or shavings
Cocoa powder or powdered sugar
Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Prepare the Crust
In a bowl, combine finely crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom and sides of a tart pan, creating an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to set.
Melt the Chocolate
Place chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Warm half of the heavy cream until just beginning to steam, then pour it over the chocolate. Let sit for one minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the remaining heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as the mousse should remain light and airy.
Flavor the Mousse
Stir peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the cooled chocolate mixture. Taste and adjust peppermint carefully—it should be refreshing, not overpowering.
Fold the Mousse
Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture in two additions, using a spatula and light motions to maintain volume.
Fill the Tart
Spoon the mousse into the chilled crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula. Tap gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Chill Until Set
Refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. For best texture, overnight chilling is recommended.
Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, decorate with crushed peppermint, chocolate curls, and a light dusting of cocoa powder. Slice with a warm knife for clean edges.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

Use quality chocolate: The flavor of this dessert relies heavily on chocolate, so choose a good-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa.
Peppermint restraint is key: Peppermint extract is potent. Start with a small amount and add gradually.
Chill thoroughly: Proper chilling ensures clean slices and a mousse that holds its shape.
Warm your knife: For bakery-style slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts.

Variations and Creative Twists

White Chocolate Peppermint Tart: Substitute dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier version.
Mocha Peppermint Mousse: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the melted chocolate for depth.
Mini Tarts: Use individual tart pans or muffin tins for party-ready portions.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart pairs beautifully with coffee, espresso, or hot chocolate. For an elegant presentation, serve with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on the plate.

It’s an ideal dessert for Christmas dinners, winter parties, or any occasion where you want something festive yet refined.

Fun Fact: Why Chocolate and Peppermint Work So Well

Peppermint enhances the perception of chocolate’s richness by activating cooling receptors on the palate. This contrast makes chocolate taste deeper and smoother, which is why this pairing has remained a holiday favorite for generations.

Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Tart

A rich chocolate tart filled with airy peppermint mousse and finished with festive toppings.

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Prep Time 25

Total Time 4 25

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Autumn

Calories: 320