Modern Speculoos Mousse Bars

Prepare the Base

1. 1Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. 2In a bowl, combine the finely crushed speculoos cookies and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. 3Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
4. 4Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

Make the Speculoos Mousse

1. 1In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. 2Add the speculoos cookie butter and powdered sugar. Beat until combined and smooth.
3. 3Gently heat the bloomed gelatin until dissolved. Stir it into the cream cheese mixture.
4. 4Fold in the whipped heavy cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. 5Pour the mousse mixture over the cooled cookie base and spread evenly.
6. 6Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the mousse is set.

Create the Chocolate Ganache

1. 1Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
2. 2Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until simmering. Pour it over the chocolate.
3. 3Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy.
4. 4Let the ganache cool slightly, then pour it evenly over the set mousse layer.
5. 5Chill the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the ganache is firm.

Serve

1. 1Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper.
2. 2Cut into 12 squares using a sharp knife.