If you live in a two-person household, making a full-size dessert may not be practical. Plus, making a recipe designed for just two people is a great way to maintain portion control—no tempting leftovers beckoning to you. This elegant little dessert fits perfectly into two small coffee cups, with no leftovers.
Chocolate Orange Mousse for Two
Dessert with Sentiment
Notice the china cups in the photo. I inherited my mother’s china when she died years ago. Sunday dinners (usually roast beef and all the trimmings) were served in our dining room in our circia-1900 Craftsman-style house. Afterwards, the inevitable dishwashing and drying at the kitchen sink led to more conversation with my mother. So, I look for memorable reasons to use this china—even if it is only the coffee cups for dessert—to feel my mother’s presence.
Chocolate-Orange Mousse for Two
I love the combination of chocolate and orange, so use either Clementine zest or regular orange zest. Or, leave it out if citrus is not your thing and add a drop of mint extract.
Desserts are so pretty served in cute little portions because they are so much more personal. Plus, they are already plated so there is no last-minute cutting or slicing. These chic little treats are ready whenever you are. And, you have control over portions (although no one will mind if you double the recipe and indulge again tomorrow or invite guests to share with you).
Healthy Chocolate Mousse
There are many ways to make mousse but this so-simple way is a healthy dessert with its tofu base and cocoa powder and of course, it is gluten-free. You choose the sweetener and the amount that suits you. Since soy is a legume, this dish is technically grain-free and you can opt for a coconut yogurt for a garnish to make it dairy-free. You can also dress it up with a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur that complements chocolate and orange. In other words, you’re in charge. Enjoy!
Chocolate-Orange Mousse for Two
Reprinted with permission from www.GFreeCuisine.com by Carol Fenster
5 to 6 ounces (half-package, undrained) soft silken tofu (use remainder in a smoothie next morning)
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (I like Dutch/alkali for its darker color)
3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup or agave nectar or coconut nectar, to taste
1 tablespoon grated Clementine or orange zest, plus more for garnish
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
2 teaspoons whipped cream or whipped topping or yogurt of your choice
In a blender, puree tofu, cocoa powder, honey, and vanilla until very, very smooth. (Add a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur for a festive note. I like Kahlua—but orange or chocolate liqueurs also work well.) Stir in zest and divide mousse between two small coffee cups, wine goblets, or martini glasses and chill at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve, each garnished with a teaspoon of whipped cream and grated zest.
Calories: 185; 4g fat, 2g fiber; 5 g protein, 34g carbohydrates, 1g cholesterol, 13 g sodium
