PSA: Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week is from December 1 to 7. It brings inflammatory bowel diseases, which impact millions of Americans, into the spotlight. Of course, it's also the holiday season, meaning folks with digestive issues are potentially gearing up for a month-long stomachache (or worse, declining a host's holiday spread to spare themselves the trouble). To ensure everyone at your Christmas party can enjoy the meal—namely, dessert—try this holiday chocolate mousse cup recipe.
Rich, creamy and decidedly elegant, the mousse is lightly sweetened and gentle on the gut, thanks to canned coconut milk standing in for traditional dairy. The recipe is also free of eggs, gluten and refined sugar (shoutout to you, maple syrup). Most importantly, it comes together with minimal prep, no baking or cooking required. You'll need to chill the coconut overnight before you begin, then allow one to two hours for the mousse to set, but those are hands-off steps. Plus, you can make the mousse in advance and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
As for garnishes, we suggest a classic combination of whipped cream, dark chocolate shavings and fresh fruit. As long as you use a lactose- or dairy-free whip and a modest dose of chocolate (or better yet, vegan chocolate), it should be safe for folks with Crohn's, colitis and other digestive sensitivities. How's that for holiday magic?
