If you can still find some cherries this summer...DO!

CHOCOLATE CHERRY MOUSSE

Plump, gorgeous jewels luxuriating in a creamy-dreamy dark chocolate mousse.

Swoon....

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2 ounces semi-sweet solid chocolate, chopped

1 cup + 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream, divided

2 tablespoons cherry liqueur or cherry syrup, optional (if not using, add 2 more tablespoons cream)

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon almond extract

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2/3 cup diced fresh cherries

6 whole cherries with stems for garnish

In a medium bowl heat the chopped chocolate, the 2 tablespoons heavy cream (4 tablespoons total, if not using liqueur or syrup) and the liqueur or syrup in the microwave at 30 second intervals, whisking in between, until melted and very until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

In a large bowl combine the remaining cream, powdered sugar, almond, and vanilla extract and beat with an electric mixture until peaks that barely hold their shape.

Beat 1/2 cup of the WHIPPED cream into the chocolate mixture until well blended. Carefully fold the chocolate mixture into the remaining whipped cream until no white streaks remain. Gently fold in diced cherries.

Divide into 6 dessert glasses and chill for at least one hour. Garnish with a whole, fresh cherry. Makes six servings.

(A no-sugar-added version of this recipe can be found on my other blog, Eating Well...Living Thin.)