Chocolate Cheese and Strawberry Mousse Duet

Name: Chocolate Cheese and Strawberry Mousse Duet
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz (250 g) cocoa bittersweet chocolate chopped; 3/4 cup (175 mL) granulated sugar divided; 1/2 cup (125 mL) water; 8 oz (250 g) brick cream cheese softened; 2 cups (500 mL) 35% whipping cream divided; 2 tsp (10 mL) vanilla; 3 cups (750 mL) frozen strawberries thawed; 1 Envelope (7 g) unflavoured gelatin; Chocolate shavings

Rich chocolate cheese is the base for a refreshingly tasty strawberry layer. Each bite complements each other and makes for a perfect make-ahead dessert for family and friends.

Prep: 20 min
Cooking: 3 min
Refrigeration: 2 h

Yields 12 servings

chocolate cheese and strawberry mousse duet

Ingredients

8 oz (250 g) cocoa bittersweet chocolate chopped
3/4 cup (175 mL) granulated sugar divided
1/2 cup (125 mL) water
8 oz (250 g) brick cream cheese softened
2 cups (500 mL) 35% whipping cream divided
2 tsp (10 mL) vanilla
3 cups (750 mL) frozen strawberries thawed
1 Envelope (7 g) unflavoured gelatin
Chocolate shavings

READY FOR REWARDS?

Preparation

Place chocolate in a medium heat-proof bowl. In a small saucepan, bring 1/2 cup (125 mL) of the sugar and water to boil. Boil for 1 minute or until sugar is dissolved. Pour over chocolate and let stand for 1 minute. Whisk together until chocolate is smooth; set aside.

In a bowl, using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese, 1 cup (250 mL) of the whipping cream and vanilla until fluffy. Add chocolate and beat until smooth and combined. Spoon into dessert dishes and refrigerate.

In blender or food processor, purée strawberries and remaining sugar until smooth; transfer to large bowl. In a microwave-safe measuring cup, whisk gelatin into 1/2 cup (125 mL) of the whipping cream. Microwave on High (100%) power for 45 seconds or until dissolved. Stir into strawberry puree and add remaining whipping cream. With an electric mixer, beat until slightly thickened and spoon on top of chocolate cheese layer. Cover loosely and refrigerate until set, for about 2 hours or for up to 2 days.

Garnish with chocolate shavings to serve.