Easy Peanut Butter Mousse

This silky peanut butter mousse transforms simple pantry ingredients into a luxurious dessert that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant. The light, airy texture combined with rich peanut butter flavor creates a perfect balance that will satisfy any sweet tooth without hours in the kitchen.

I first made this mousse when unexpected dinner guests were arriving in less than an hour. The speed and simplicity saved the evening, and now it's my go-to impressive dessert when time is tight but I still want to wow my friends.

Ingredients

• Smooth peanut butter: Provides the rich flavor foundation. Choose a high quality brand with minimal additives for the best taste and texture.
• Cream cheese: Adds tanginess that balances the sweetness. Make sure it's fully softened for a lump-free mousse.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens while maintaining the silky texture. Regular granulated sugar would create an unpleasant grittiness.
• Heavy cream: Creates the airy texture when whipped. Use cold cream straight from the refrigerator for the best volume.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the base:

Combine peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar in a large bowl. Beat until completely smooth and no streaks remain. This creates your flavor foundation so take time to ensure everything is well incorporated and silky.

Whip the cream:

In a separate clean bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This usually takes about 3 minutes with an electric mixer. The cream should hold its shape firmly when you lift the beaters but still look glossy not dry or grainy.

Combine carefully:

Add about a quarter of your whipped cream to the peanut butter mixture and beat gently to lighten the base. This first addition makes it easier to fold in the remaining cream without deflating it. Then fold in half the remaining cream with a rubber spatula using a gentle down and over motion until just combined.

Finish the mousse:

Add the final portion of whipped cream and fold just until no white streaks remain. Overmixing will deflate your mousse so be gentle but thorough. The texture should be light and fluffy with a smooth appearance.

Pipe and serve:

Transfer your finished mousse to a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip. Pipe into serving glasses or mason jars for an elegant presentation. You can enjoy immediately but the texture improves after chilling for at least 30 minutes.

Pin it

The first time I served this mousse to my mother she insisted I had spent hours making it. The smile on her face when I revealed how easy it was remains one of my favorite kitchen memories. Now she makes it regularly for her bridge club gatherings.

Texture Perfection

The secret to achieving the perfect mousse texture lies in two crucial steps. First, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing otherwise you will end up with tiny lumps throughout your mousse. Second, properly whip your heavy cream to stiff peaks but not beyond. Overwhipped cream becomes grainy and will ruin the silky texture of your finished dessert. If you are new to whipping cream by hand, stop frequently to check your progress.

Creative Variations

This versatile mousse recipe welcomes creative adaptations. For a chocolate peanut butter version, fold in 1/4 cup of melted and cooled dark chocolate. Almond butter creates a more sophisticated flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of sea salt on top. For a festive touch, layer the mousse with crushed graham crackers and a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a deconstructed PB&J experience that will delight guests of all ages.

Pin it

Elegant Serving Ideas

Transform this simple mousse into an impressive dessert by considering the presentation. Layer it in clear glasses with fresh berries and crushed peanuts for textural contrast. For dinner parties, serve in espresso cups with a tiny chocolate-covered pretzel as garnish. During summer months, freeze the mousse in popsicle molds for a refreshing frozen treat that children and adults will equally enjoy. The possibilities are endless for this chameleon dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, you can replace peanut butter with smooth almond butter or even tahini for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store peanut butter mousse?

Store the mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to keep it fresh.

→ Can this mousse be frozen?

Yes, the mousse can be frozen for up to six months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What is the best way to serve peanut butter mousse?

You can pipe the mousse into mason jars or glass jars for an elegant presentation. Serve chilled.

→ Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Absolutely! The mousse can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prepping or special occasions.

→ What type of cream should I use?

Heavy cream works best for this recipe, as it whips to stiff peaks, ensuring the mousse is light and airy.