Ever get hit with a dessert craving that’s so specific you can practically taste it? Creamy, nutty, rich—but you still want to feel good about it? Same here.
Lucky for all of us, there’s cottage cheese and peanut butter just waiting in the fridge to save the day.
This Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Mousse is your answer. Silky, protein-packed, and absolutely bursting with peanutty flavor
All you need is a few minutes and a blender. You get a treat that tastes like a total splurge, but still checks the “healthy-ish” box.
Why You’ll Love This Mousse
- Creamy
- Protein-packed
- Nutty
- Quick
Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe
For this delicious 5-minute mousse, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Full-fat cottage cheese | 1 cup |
| Creamy natural peanut butter, sugar-free | 4 tbsp |
| Honey or maple syrup | 2 tbsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Salt (optional) | 1/4 tsp |
| Milk (if needed) | 1–2 tbsp |
Optional Add-Ons
- 1 tbsp chopped peanuts – Sprinkles on a crunchy texture.
- 1 tbsp dark chocolate chips – Adds melty, sweet bursts.
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon – Mixes in a warm, spicy note.
Tools You’ll Need
- Food processor or blender – Blends ingredients into a smooth mousse.
- Small strainer – Drains cottage cheese for a thicker texture.
- Spatula – Scrapes and portions mousse evenly.
- Serving bowls – Presents the mousse beautifully.
- Measuring spoons – Ensures precise ingredient ratios.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Strain Cottage Cheese
Place 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese in a small strainer—gently press with a spatula for 1-2 minutes to remove excess liquid, preventing a watery mousse. This step ensures a thick, creamy base and takes just a moment. Set the strained cheese aside in a small bowl, ready for blending.
Step 2: Prep Food Processor
Set up a food processor or high-speed blender with at least a 4-cup capacity—ensure the blade is secure for safe, efficient blending. A clean processor prevents flavor contamination, and a smaller size works well for this batch. This quick prep keeps the process smooth and hassle-free.
Step 3: Add Core Ingredients
Add the strained cottage cheese, 4 tbsp creamy natural peanut butter, 2 tbsp sweetener (Monk fruit, honey, or maple syrup), 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp salt (if using) to the food processor. Spread ingredients evenly around the blade to promote balanced blending—avoids clumping on one side.
Step 4: Blend to Smooth
Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no visible cottage cheese curds—stop halfway to scrape down the sides with a spatula for even consistency. The mousse should look velvety, like a thick pudding, with a rich peanut butter aroma.
Step 5: Check Texture
Test the mousse by scooping a small amount with a spoon—it should be thick yet spreadable, like whipped frosting. If too thick and dense, add 1 tbsp milk and blend for 10 seconds; if still too thick, add another 1 tbsp milk and blend again. Adjust carefully to avoid a runny texture.
Step 6: Chill for Best Texture
Transfer the mousse to a bowl using a spatula—cover with a lid or wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to let it set and flavors meld. Chilling enhances the creamy texture and makes it easier to scoop, giving a cool, refreshing finish to the dessert.
Step 7: Portion into Bowls
Scoop the chilled mousse into 2-4 small serving bowls or jars, depending on portion size—use a spatula to smooth the tops for a neat presentation. Aim for about 1/4 to 1/2 cup per serving, perfect for a quick snack or dessert that feels indulgent.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Serve the mousse chilled, topping with optional add-ons like chopped peanuts or dark chocolate chips for extra crunch and flavor. Drizzle with a thin stream of peanut butter for a fancy touch, if desired. Enjoy with a spoon for a protein-packed treat.
Storage and Serving
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days—stir gently before serving if separated. Freeze for up to 1 month, thawing in the fridge and re-blending for smoothness. Serve as a dessert, snack, or post-workout boost.
Substitutes and Variations
- Sweetener Swap – Use Monk fruit instead of honey.
- Nut Butter Twist – Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4 servings total) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Fat | 12g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Total Carbs | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Net Carbs | 13g |
Note: Values are approximate and vary by brands.
Pairing Suggestions
- Top with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a fruity finish.
- Add chocolate chips on top for extra decadence.
- Pair with crunchy granola or crushed graham crackers for texture.
- Top with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a fruity finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Early batches had hiccups, so here’s how to avoid those traps with extra clarity:
- Skipping the cottage cheese strain and getting a runny mousse – Unstrained cottage cheese adds excess liquid, thinning the texture; a watery spoonful was a letdown—press out liquid for a thick base.
- Under-blending and ending with a grainy texture – Not blending long enough leaves cottage cheese curds, ruining the silky feel; a gritty bite was disappointing—blend until completely smooth.
- Adding too much milk and making it too thin – Overdoing the milk turns the mousse into a smoothie-like liquid; a soupy batch was frustrating—add milk 1 tbsp at a time and check.
- Serving without chilling and missing the creamy set – Immediate serving results in a soft, unset texture; a loose scoop was underwhelming—chill for 15-20 minutes for best results.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, but it’s less creamy—full-fat is best.
Too thick?
Add 1-2 tsp more milk and blend briefly.
Can I skip salt?
Yes, it’s optional—still tastes great without.
Final Thoughts
And that’s it – a creamy, dreamy mousse that feels way fancier than it actually is.
Spoon it up for dessert, serve it as a snack, or just enjoy it straight from the blender (zero judgment, honestly). It’s quick, satisfying, and guaranteed to hit that peanut butter craving right where it counts.
Sometimes simple wins. And this mousse? It’s a win you’ll want on repeat.
