Step 1

In a large bowl, heat chocolate chips and ½ cup cream until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. I do this in the microwave in 20 seconds increments, stirring well between each. Set aside to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally (this took about 15 minutes).

Step 2

In the bowl of a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat remaining 1¼ cups chilled cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

Step 3

Divide the whipped cream in half, transferring half to the refrigerator to use for topping the mousse. Fold* the remaining whipped cream into the melted chocolate in two additions. Once fully combined, transfer the mousse into individual serving dishes and chill for a couple hours. The colder it is, the more firm it will be. If you'd like it softer you can leave it at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Top each serving with some of the reserved whipped cream.