Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) high-quality white chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, plus 2 tablespoons (30ml)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5ml) powdered gelatin
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy cream, very cold
- Pinch of salt
- White chocolate shavings (optional)
- Fresh raspberries (optional)
- Mint sprigs (optional)
Instructions:
- Sprinkle gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold milk in a small bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes to soften.
- Combine chopped white chocolate and 1/4 cup milk in a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over simmering water. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Microwave the gelatin mixture in 5 second intervals until melted, about 15 seconds. Stir the melted gelatin into the slightly cooled melted white chocolate until combined.
- Slowly drizzle the melted white chocolate mixture into the cream cheese, whisking continuously until smooth and thoroughly combined.
- In a separate, chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or hand mixer) until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the white chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then, gently fold in the remaining whipped cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the mousse evenly among serving glasses or ramekins. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the mousse to set completely.
- Before serving, garnish with white chocolate shavings, fresh raspberries, or mint sprigs, if desired.