Treat yourself to absolute decadence with this luscious Peanut Butter Mousse. It’s a dreamy dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and salty, light and rich, thanks to fluffy whipped cream and the bold, nutty flavor of peanut butter. In just a few simple steps, you’ll end up with a dessert that feels gourmet but is so easy to make, you’ll want to whip it up for every special occasion—or just because!

Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Peanut Butter Mousse is how such a short, easy ingredient list creates something so silky-smooth and luxurious. Each component plays a starring role, working together for creamy texture, full-bodied flavor, and a finish that’s impossible to resist.

Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, it brings airy lightness and a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Cream cheese (softened): Adds much-needed creaminess and subtle tang—don’t skip the softening for a smooth mousse.
Creamy peanut butter: The heart and soul of the mousse, this gives it depth, nuttiness, and a velvety texture.
Powdered sugar: Dissolves easily, lending just the right touch of sweetness.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with irresistible aroma and depth.
Pinch of salt: Intensifies the peanut flavor and balances the sweet perfectly.
Optional toppings: Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed peanuts add layers of flavor and that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Make Peanut Butter Mousse

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Grab your cold heavy whipping cream and pour it into a large bowl. Using a hand or stand mixer, whip it until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for getting that light, cloud-like texture that makes Peanut Butter Mousse so addictive. As soon as you see the peaks hold their shape, stop—you don’t want to over-whip and risk turning it into butter! Set the bowl aside for now.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Base

In another large mixing bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s super smooth and creamy. If your cream cheese isn’t soft enough, let it sit at room temperature a bit longer. This makes sure you won’t have any tiny lumps in your finished mousse, keeping every bite silky.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter, Sugar, Vanilla, and Salt

Now, add the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the cream cheese. Beat everything together on medium speed until the mixture is completely uniform and smooth. This is where the magic starts to happen—taste the mixture and swoon at that bold, peanutty flavor!

Step 4: Fold In the Whipped Cream

Take about half the whipped cream and gently fold it into the peanut butter base. Use a spatula and a soft touch—the key is to keep all that air you whipped in earlier. Once incorporated, fold in the remaining whipped cream until no streaks remain. Your Peanut Butter Mousse should now look fluffy and light.

Step 5: Chill

Spoon the mousse into individual serving dishes or glasses. Don’t worry about perfection—those swoops and peaks look delicious. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling not only firms up the mousse but also lets the flavors meld wonderfully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Just before serving, add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed peanuts as desired. That little bit of extra texture and chocolatey goodness? Pure heaven with Peanut Butter Mousse!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Mousse

Garnishes

Elevate your mousse game with simple garnishes. I love a big dollop of whipped cream (homemade if you have the time), a drizzle of melted chocolate, and a scatter of crushed roasted peanuts. Not only do these toppings make your Peanut Butter Mousse look irresistible, but they also add layers of crunch and flavor that really round out each creamy spoonful.

Side Dishes

You might not think a mousse needs a sidekick, but serving it alongside crisp cookies, fresh berries, or delicate ladyfingers is always a hit. The fruitiness of raspberries or sliced bananas is a wonderful contrast to the richness of the mousse, while a buttery shortbread offers crunch and adds elegance to your dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the bowl! Layer Peanut Butter Mousse in parfait glasses with crushed cookies and chocolate chips for a stunning trifle, or spoon it into tiny mason jars for a picnic treat. Feeling playful? Pipe it atop brownies for the ultimate no-bake frosting, or even use it as a cupcake filling for a dreamy surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though I promise, it’s rare!), cover the mousse tightly and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to three days, maintaining its fluffy texture and bold peanut flavor. Give it a gentle stir before enjoying again, just in case any separation occurs.

Freezing

Believe it or not, Peanut Butter Mousse freezes extremely well. Spoon portions into airtight, freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the refrigerator until it’s soft enough to scoop. It’s almost like enjoying a peanut butter ice cream!

Reheating

No reheating required for this dreamy dessert. If you’ve frozen your mousse, just allow it to thaw in the fridge. Don’t try to microwave it—it’ll lose its airy texture and could separate. Serve chilled, straight from the fridge for the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely, but keep in mind that crunchy peanut butter will add a slightly different texture. Expect some delicious nutty bits stirred through your mousse, which is fantastic if you love a little crunch in every bite!

Is it okay to substitute mascarpone or Greek yogurt for the cream cheese?

Yes, both mascarpone and Greek yogurt work beautifully. Mascarpone makes the mousse even richer and silkier, while Greek yogurt adds a subtle tang and lightness. Try substituting half or all the cream cheese, depending on what you have on hand or your flavor preference.

What’s the best way to fold in whipped cream?

Use a spatula and gentle, sweeping motions to fold the whipped cream in, turning the bowl as you go. The goal is to incorporate the cream without deflating the mixture, giving your Peanut Butter Mousse its signature airy lightness.

Can I make this dessert vegan?

With a few swaps, you can! Use whipped coconut cream in place of heavy cream, a vegan cream cheese alternative, and your favorite plant-based peanut butter. The result will still be delicious and satisfy any mousse cravings.

How do I know when the mousse has set properly?

After about an hour in the fridge, your mousse should be set—look for a consistency that holds its shape when spooned. If you prefer it extra firm, let it chill even longer. The texture will be smooth, creamy, and mousse-like, just as it should be!

Final Thoughts

If you love peanut butter, you owe it to yourself to try this Peanut Butter Mousse at least once—although I guarantee it’ll become a go-to favorite! Whip it up, get creative with toppings, and share the indulgence with someone who deserves a little sweet happiness today.

Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe

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4.5 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this Peanut Butter Mousse that is a perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors. This easy no-bake dessert is a delightful treat for peanut butter lovers!

Ingredients

Scale

Whipped Cream:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

Peanut Butter Mixture:

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

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Instructions

Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in two additions until fully combined.
Chill: Spoon the mousse into serving dishes or glasses and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Top and Serve: Add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed peanuts as desired.

Notes

For a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with mascarpone or Greek yogurt.
This mousse is versatile and can be used as a pie or parfait filling.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American