This elegant Grand Marnier Mousse combines the luxurious flavor of the famed orange liqueur with a silky, airy texture created by whipped cream and stiffly beaten egg whites. Inspired by French culinary traditions and once featured in Gourmet magazine, it’s a timeless dessert often served in lined molds with ladyfingers. The dish is light, fragrant, and perfectly balanced between citrusy brightness and creamy indulgence, making it an ideal finish for special dinners and festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 env unflavored gelatin
- ¼ cup cold milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ cup Grand Marnier
- 3 egg whites (stiffly beaten)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped)
- Ladyfingers (enough to line a 1-quart mold)
Instructions
Step 1: Soften the Gelatin
- In a small bowl, sprinkle 1 envelope gelatin over ¼ cup cold milk.
- Place bowl over hot water to gently dissolve the gelatin.
Step 2: Prepare Egg Mixture
- Beat 3 egg yolks with 3 tbsp sugar until thick and pale.
- Stir in ½ cup Grand Marnier.
Step 3: Combine Components
- Gently fold in the stiffly beaten egg whites.
- Add 1 cup whipped cream and the softened gelatin mixture. Fold until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble in Mold
- Line a 1-quart mold with ladyfingers.
- Pour in the mousse mixture and smooth the top.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Unmold onto a serving plate before serving.
Tips
- Use soft ladyfingers (savoiardi) for easier mold lining.
- Add a bit of orange zest to boost the citrus aroma.
- Replace Grand Marnier with Cointreau for a brighter flavor.
- Fold in a handful of finely chopped candied orange peel for texture.
- For a lighter mousse, use half-whipped cream and half-whipped egg whites.
- Freeze the mousse for 1 to 2 hours to serve as a semifreddo.
- Serve with chocolate shavings or orange curls for presentation.
- Use individual ramekins instead of a large mold for easy unmolding.
- Reduce Grand Marnier slightly if serving to children (alcohol flavor remains strong).
Nutrition
Calories: 330kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 160mgSodium: 70mgPotassium: 90mgSugar: 24gVitamin A: 750IUCalcium: 45mgIron: 0.5mg
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