There is something truly irresistible about a dessert that feels both indulgent and light, and this Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe fits that bill perfectly. Combining the rich, comforting flavor of creamy peanut butter with a fluffy, cloud-like texture, this mousse is a delightful treat that comes together quickly and easily. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert fix or an impressive make-ahead option for guests, this recipe will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each plays a vital role in creating the luscious, airy texture and balanced flavor of this Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe. From creamy peanut butter providing bold taste, to whipped cream lending lightness, every element is essential to the magic.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup, chilled): This is the base of the mousse’s airy texture, whipping up into soft peaks that provide volume and creaminess.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): The star ingredient that delivers that classic nutty richness and velvety flavor.
- Powdered sugar (1/3 cup): Adds just enough sweetness without graininess, helping the mousse stay smooth and delicate.
- Milk or additional heavy cream (2 tablespoons): Used to loosen the peanut butter mixture for easy folding and a perfectly smooth consistency.
- Optional toppings: Shaved chocolate, chocolate chips, roasted peanuts, Nutter Butter cookies, or extra whipped cream to add texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream to Soft Peaks
Start by pouring your chilled heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the cream until soft peaks form—this means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds its shape but the tips slightly droop. This usually takes just 2 to 3 minutes. To keep it perfectly cold (and stable), pop the whipped cream into the fridge while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Combine Peanut Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, blend the creamy peanut butter with the powdered sugar. Add 1 tablespoon of milk or heavy cream at a time, stirring after each addition. This helps to soften and loosen the mixture, making it smooth and ready to incorporate with the whipped cream.
Step 3: Fold in Half the Whipped Cream
Gently fold half of the whipped cream into your peanut butter mixture. Use a spatula and move carefully—folding means you cut through the mixture and turn it over, keeping as much air in as possible. This step is key to achieving that light, mousse-like texture.
Step 4: Fold in the Remaining Whipped Cream
Once the first half is combined, fold in the remaining whipped cream slowly until the mixture is uniform in color and texture. Be careful not to overmix here, or the mousse could deflate and lose its beautiful fluffiness.
Step 5: Portion into Serving Cups
Divide the mousse evenly into four 6-ounce cups or glasses. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon for a clean finish, or for a playful twist, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create elegant swirls.
Step 6: Chill for the Perfect Set
Cover each serving with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the mousse to set beautifully, melding the flavors and firming up the texture just right.
Step 7: Add Your Favorite Toppings
Before serving, elevate your Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe with optional toppings like shaved chocolate, crunchy roasted peanuts, chocolate chips, Nutter Butter cookie crumbles, or a swirl of whipped cream. These add delightful texture contrasts and a stunning visual touch.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe
Garnishes
The best part about this mousse is how perfectly it pairs with simple yet delicious garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts offers a wonderful crunch, while chocolate shavings or chips bring that extra hint of decadence. For a nostalgic touch, crumbled Nutter Butter cookies add texture and a bit of peanut butter cookie magic on top.
Side Dishes
This mousse stands well on its own but can be wonderfully accompanied by fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries, which add bright, juicy contrast to the rich peanut butter flavor. A delicate cookie or biscotti on the side also makes for a refined presentation and adds textural complexity.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the mousse in elegant martini glasses or mini parfait jars layered with crushed cookies for an ambitious twist. You can even make mini mousse pops by spooning the mousse into molds and freezing them, creating a fun handheld dessert experience for summertime gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to cover it well to keep it from absorbing any other fridge odors and to maintain the mousse’s airy texture.
Freezing
Though mousse is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a sealed container. Freeze for up to one month, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly less airy after freezing but still delicious.
Reheating
Since mousse is served cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, let any frozen mousse thaw fully in the refrigerator before serving to preserve its creamy, silky integrity.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Sure! Using crunchy peanut butter will give your mousse extra texture and nutty bites. Just be mindful it may make the mousse a bit less smooth than with creamy peanut butter.
Is there a substitute for heavy whipping cream?
Heavy whipping cream is ideal for the light, airy texture of mousse, but you can try whipping coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative. The flavor will change slightly but still be delicious.
Can I make this mousse without an electric mixer?
While possible, whipping heavy cream by hand requires some elbow grease and patience. An electric mixer makes the process much easier and gives a better, more stable whip faster.
How long does it take to set properly?
Ideally, refrigerate the mousse for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up and develop its full flavor and texture. Overnight chilling is even better if you have the time.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe scales up well; just make sure to use a large enough bowl to whip your cream properly and fold ingredients gently to maintain the mousse’s fluffiness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a straightforward dessert that tastes indulgent but feels light and airy, this Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe is waiting to become your new favorite. It’s quick to whip up, wonderfully flexible, and perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stress. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the bowl faster than you’d expect!
Print
Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Peanut Butter Mousse is a light, airy, and creamy dessert that combines rich peanut butter flavor with fluffy whipped cream. Perfectly sweetened and chilled to set, this mousse makes a delightful treat for peanut butter lovers, topped with optional chocolate, peanuts, or cookie crumbles for added texture and indulgence.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tablespoons milk (or additional heavy cream)
Optional Toppings
- Shaved chocolate
- Chocolate chips
- Roasted peanuts
- Nutter Butter cookies
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: Pour the chilled heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside in the fridge to keep cold.
- Mix Peanut Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar. Add milk or heavy cream one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition until the mixture is smooth and spreadable.
- Fold in Whipped Cream (Part 1): Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture using a spatula, folding slowly to maintain the light and airy texture.
- Fold in Whipped Cream (Part 2): Fold in the remaining whipped cream gently until the mixture is uniform with no streaks, careful not to deflate the mousse.
- Divide and Smooth: Spoon the mousse evenly into four 6-ounce serving cups or glasses. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon or use a piping bag with a star tip for decorative presentation.
- Chill: Cover each serving with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set properly.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Just before serving, decorate each mousse with your choice of toppings such as shaved chocolate, chocolate chips, roasted peanuts, a dollop of whipped cream, or crumbled Nutter Butter cookies.
Notes
- Use chilled heavy whipping cream for best whipping results and mousse texture.
- Be gentle when folding the whipped cream to keep the mousse light and fluffy.
- Adjust powdered sugar amount to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet mousse.
- Optional toppings add texture and flavor contrast but can be omitted for a simpler dessert.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
