If you’re searching for a dessert that balances creamy richness, a touch of salty sweetness, and a cloud-like texture, look no further than this Peanut Butter Mousse. Imagine velvety peanut butter swirling with whipped cream and a hint of tangy cream cheese, all topped with decadent chocolate and crunchy peanuts if you fancy. Each bite is pure bliss, and the best part is, you don’t need to turn on your oven. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply need a treat after dinner, this Peanut Butter Mousse is comfort in a cup—ready to win over both peanut butter lovers and anyone who craves a no-fuss, show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Peanut Butter Mousse comes from a short, classic list of ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in building the mousse’s dreamy texture and irresistible flavor. Here’s what to gather, along with why they matter:
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped into soft, billowy peaks, this is what gives the mousse its delightful lightness.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds just the right amount of tang and body, making the mousse decadently smooth and rich.
- Creamy peanut butter: The heart of the recipe; choose a smooth, good-quality variety for that classic peanut buttery taste.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the dessert while dissolving easily to keep the texture silky and light.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and gives a little aromatic warmth to the finished mousse.
- Pinch of salt: A tiny amount sharpens all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Optional toppings (whipped cream, chocolate shavings, crushed peanuts): These add flair and texture—feel free to get creative!
How to Make Peanut Butter Mousse
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start with super cold cream and a chilled bowl (if you have time) to help it whip up quickly. Beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form—if you lift the beater, the cream should stand up tall without drooping. This whipped cream is crucial for the mousse’s light-as-air finish, so don’t rush this part!
Step 2: Cream the Cream Cheese
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and lump-free. This little step ensures your Peanut Butter Mousse is luxuriously silky, with no sneaky chunks.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter, Sugar, Vanilla, and Salt
To the bowl of cream cheese, add the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it’s velvety and evenly blended. The mixture should look thick and dreamy—almost like frosting that you’ll want to dive into with a spoon.
Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Cream
Now for the most satisfying step—folding the fresh whipped cream into the peanut butter base. Do this gently, in two batches, turning your spatula in wide arcs to keep as much air as possible in the mousse. The goal is a unified, pillowy mix with no streaks.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Spoon your finished Peanut Butter Mousse into pretty glasses or bowls. Pop them in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This resting time makes the texture even silkier and lets the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, go wild with your favorite toppings!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Mousse
Garnishes
Dress up your Peanut Butter Mousse with fluffy whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, or a scattering of crunchy, salted peanuts. Each garnish adds its own unique texture, turning every spoonful into a delightful surprise. Feel free to get playful—chopped Reese’s cups or a drizzle of honey never hurt anyone!
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded dessert plate, offer fresh berries—their tartness cuts through the mousse’s richness—alongside crisp cookies or even thin biscotti for dipping. Coffee or a dessert wine also pairs perfectly, balancing the sweet, nutty notes of the mousse.
Creative Ways to Present
This mousse shines in individual shot glasses for a party, layered in a trifle dish with brownies or cake crumbs, or even piped into mini tart shells for bite-sized treats. You can also spoon it atop waffles or pancakes for a breakfast twist that feels like pure luxury. No matter how you present it, this Peanut Butter Mousse steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Mousse tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The mousse maintains its luscious texture, and the flavors actually deepen a little, making it extra decadent on day two!
Freezing
Good news: Peanut Butter Mousse freezes beautifully! Simply spoon it into an airtight container, smooth the top, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. It’s almost like a semifreddo when partially frozen—a fun summer treat!
Reheating
No reheating needed for this dessert. In fact, keeping it cold is the secret to its perfect texture. If you’ve frozen it, just let it thaw in the fridge until it’s soft and creamy once more.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to stir it well before measuring, as natural peanut butter tends to separate. The texture may be slightly less creamy, but the flavor stays top-notch.
Is there a dairy-free version of Peanut Butter Mousse?
Yes, you can swap in coconut cream for the heavy cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. The outcome is still fluffy, creamy, and deliciously nutty.
Can I make Peanut Butter Mousse ahead of time?
Definitely! In fact, making it several hours or even a day ahead allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set up even better. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Will crunchy peanut butter work?
Crunchy peanut butter can be used if you love a little extra texture in your mousse. Just know that the final result will have pieces of peanuts throughout instead of a completely smooth finish.
Can I use this mousse as a cake or pie filling?
Yes, this Peanut Butter Mousse makes a fabulous filling! Try it in a chocolate cookie crust, layered in a trifle, or spread between cake layers for a decadent treat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about making a dessert that feels both nostalgic and truly impressive. I hope you give this Peanut Butter Mousse a spot on your table—whether for a cozy night in or a celebration with friends. Each bite is creamy, dreamy, and guaranteed to go fast!
Print
Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy decadence of Peanut Butter Mousse, a luscious dessert that combines the richness of peanut butter with the lightness of whipped cream. This no-bake treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
For the Mousse:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Crushed peanuts
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mousse: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Combine the Ingredients: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in two additions until smooth.
- Chill and Serve: Spoon the mousse into serving dishes or glasses. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Top with whipped cream, chocolate, or peanuts if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter texture, consider using half mascarpone or Greek yogurt.
- This mousse is versatile and can be used as a pie or parfait filling.
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