Dark chocolate avocado mousse

• 2 ripe avocadospeeled and pitted
• 160 ml full-fat coconut creamchilled overnight, solids only
• 40 g unsweetened cocoa powdersifted
• 80 g dark chocolate70% or higher, melted and cooled slightly
• 60 ml pure maple syrupadjust to taste
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp flaky sea salt
• ½ tsp espresso powderoptional but deepens chocolate flavor

1. 1

   Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a small saucepan of barely simmering water (or in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each), until just smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool for 5 minutes — it should feel just warm to the touch, not hot.

   Tip: If the chocolate is too hot when blended with the avocado, it can turn grainy. Let it cool until it's around body temperature.

2. 2

   Add the avocado flesh, chilled coconut cream solids, sifted cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, flaky sea salt, and espresso powder (if using) to a food processor. Blend for 30 seconds, then scrape down the sides.

3. 3

   Pour the melted chocolate into the food processor and blend again for 1–2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides once, until the mousse is completely smooth, glossy, and no green streaks remain. It should look like a thick, silky pudding.

   Tip: Don't rush this step — a full blend ensures no avocado flavor comes through. Taste and add a little more maple syrup if you want it sweeter.

4. 4

   Divide the mousse evenly between 4 ramekins or small glasses, smoothing the tops with the back of a spoon. Cover each with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin forming.

5. 5

   Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, until the mousse is firm, set, and cold all the way through. It will hold its shape when you run a spoon through it and the surface will look matte rather than shiny.

   Tip: Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days — the flavor actually deepens overnight, making this a great make-ahead dessert. Do not freeze, as the texture becomes grainy after thawing.

• food processor (full-size)
• mixing bowl
• rubber spatula
• fine mesh strainer

Per serving

Nutritional values are estimates only.