RECIPE: HEHP Chocolate Mousse
Dessert should be something to look forward to, and this High Energy High Protein (HEHP) Chocolate Mousse proves that nourishing food can be every bit as indulgent as a traditional sweet treat. Light, airy and decadently chocolatey, this mousse is layered with a silky smooth chocolate ganache and served alongside fresh strawberries, creamy custard and vanilla ice cream to create a dessert that is both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying.
Mousse Without Raw Egg Whites
One of the key advantages of this recipe for aged care is that it provides the light, airy texture of a traditional mousse without relying on raw egg whites. Traditional mousse recipes commonly use raw or lightly processed egg whites to create their characteristic airy consistency. In aged care environments, raw egg products can present a food safety risk, particularly for older adults who may be more vulnerable to foodborne illness.
By using an alternative method to achieve its smooth and airy texture, this HEHP Chocolate Mousse provides an indulgent mousse-style dessert while supporting the food safety requirements that are so important when preparing meals for older adults. This makes it a practical option for aged care menus where both nutrition and food safety need to be carefully considered.
Making Dessert Count in Aged Care
Designed specifically for aged care settings, this recipe offers far more than great taste. Many older adults experience reduced appetite, making it difficult to consume enough energy and protein to maintain their health. By incorporating full cream milk, milk powder, cream and chocolate into a smooth, easy to enjoy dessert, this recipe provides valuable nutrition in a relatively small serving. With over 10 g of protein per serve, it contributes towards maintaining muscle mass and strength, supporting mobility, independence, and overall quality of life.
Nutrient-Dense Ingredients
The addition of fresh strawberries not only introduces a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate but also contributes vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural sweetness, helping to balance the dessert while adding colour and freshness to the plate. Custard and vanilla ice cream provide extra energy, protein, and calcium, making this an ideal option for residents with increased nutritional requirements or those needing nutrient-dense menu choices.
Soft, Smooth and Texture-Friendly
Its soft, smooth consistency also makes it particularly suitable for many older adults who may have dental concerns or require texture-modified meals. The recipe includes clear guidance for adapting the dessert to various IDDSI texture levels, allowing residents with swallowing difficulties to safely enjoy the same delicious dessert as everyone else. This helps promote dignity, inclusion, and a more enjoyable dining experience.
Bringing Variety to the Aged Care Menu
From a menu planning perspective, this dessert adds valuable variety by moving beyond traditional puddings and cakes. Its elegant presentation creates a café-style experience that can encourage food intake while making mealtimes feel more special. The combination of creamy mousse, glossy ganache, and vibrant strawberries offers an appealing contrast of colours and flavours that stimulate appetite.
Nutrition Without Compromising Indulgence
Rich, comforting and beautifully balanced, this HEHP Chocolate Mousse is proof that nutrition and indulgence can go hand in hand. It delivers the energy and protein residents need while offering a dessert that feels like a genuine treat. One that many will look forward to enjoying again and again.
HEHP Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Serves 50
Ingredients
Mousse | |
1.6 Kg | Plain Chocolate |
220g | Milk, full cream |
56g | Full Cream Milk Powder |
2.4 kg | Thickened Cream |
Chocolate Ganache | |
400g | Dark Chocolate |
500mL | Thickened Cream |
To Serve | |
2.7 L | Custard |
6.25 L | Ice-cream, vanilla |
4 kg | Strawberries, cut in halves |
ALLERGENS: Milk (Dairy)
Method
Place chocolate, full cream milk and full cream milk powder in a heat safe bowl.
Heat over a double boiler mixing continuously until mixture is completely smooth. Take off the heat and allow mixture to cool down to room temperature.
Using a mixer, beat thickened cream into another bowl until stiff peaks form.
Pour half of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture and fold until combined. Repeat this process with the remaining whipped cream. Divide mousse into serving cups about 70ml per serve.
To make the chocolate ganache. In a heat safe bowl, place chocolate and cream and microwave in 15 second intervals, mixing each interval until full combined or heat the chocolate & cream over a double boiler.
Allow mixture to cool down to room temperature before pouring and dividing evenly between serving cups.
Place mousse in the refrigerator for approximately 2 hours.
Serve mousse with chopped strawberries, custard, and ice-cream on the side.
Texture Modification Suitability for these HEHP Chocolate Mousse
This recipe is suitable for the regular diet. Further modifications are required if serving with strawberries to ensure they are safe for the other levels.
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