This recipe for chocolate mousse is luxurious ... I flavor the custard base with vanilla extract and a bit of instant espresso powder, which helps bring out the richness of the dark chocolate.

The mousse filling is light and airy, while the fudge frosting adds a decadent ... 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Beat in the cooled chocolate mixture. Frost the cake with a knife or offset spatula.

Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set. Once chilled, top the mousse with the reserved whipped cream. Add chocolate shavings or crushed hazelnuts ...