In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the chopped white chocolate, ¼ cup of the cream, and the butter.
6 ounces white chocolate baking bar, 1 ¼ cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon salted butter
Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and melted. Cool mixture to room temperature.
In a medium-sized bowl all the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream, whip until frothy with a whisk or electric hand mixer.
Sift the powdered sugar on top of the heavy cream and stir it in.
⅔ cup powdered sugar
Continue to whip until stiff peaks form.
Stir in the vanilla.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add ⅓ of the whipped cream to the white chocolate bowl and fold it in until there are no streaks left.
Add another ⅓ of the whipped cream and fold it in.
Add the last of the whipped cream and fold it in until completely smooth with no streaks.
Divide the mixture between 6 small serving bowls.
Cover with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator to set up for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
Serve as-is or with more whipped cream on top, chocolate curls, sprinkles, or all three!
Notes
Use High-Quality White Chocolate: The white chocolate flavor shines in this recipe, so choose a good brand with real cocoa butter.
Cool the Melted Chocolate: Allow the melted white chocolate mixture to cool to room temperature before folding in the whipped cream to prevent melting the cream.
Whip Cream Properly: Beat the cream to stiff peaks using an electric mixer with a whisk attachment for the best fluffy texture.
Gentle Folding: Use a rubber spatula to fold in the whipped cream gently. This keeps the mousse light and airy.
Serving Suggestions: Serve in small serving glasses or dessert cups. This mousse is rich, so a little goes a long way.
Add Flavors: Feel free to add a touch of orange zest or other flavor extracts to the mousse for a unique twist.