Healthy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Lemon Mousse (3-Ingredient Recipe)

I had a lemon, a tub of cottage cheese, and a sweet craving I couldn’t ignore. Thirty minutes later? This mousse happened—and it’s been on repeat ever since.

It’s creamy, bright, and loaded with protein. Just three ingredients, no baking, no waiting (unless you want it chilled, which honestly makes it even better).

This is one of those recipes that feels fancy, but comes together in seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Mousse

• Tangy
• Creamy
• Protein-packed
• Quick

Cottage Cheese Lemon Mousse Recipe

Here’s everything needed for the mousse, listed in order

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Description
Cottage cheese (2% fat)	2 cups	Forms a creamy, protein-rich base.
Maple syrup	3 tablespoons	Adds natural sweetness with caramel notes.
Lemon juice	1 tablespoon	Brings bright, tart flavor.
Lemon zest	From one lemon	Infuses intense citrusy aroma.

Optional Add-Ons

• 1 tbsp toasted coconut – Sprinkles on a tropical crunch.
• 1 tsp crushed pistachios – Adds nutty texture.
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances with subtle warmth.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• High-powered blender – Blends mousse to silky smoothness.
• Fine mesh strainer – Drains cottage cheese for thicker texture.
• Spatula – Scrapes and transfers mousse cleanly.
• Microplane zester – Grates lemon zest finely.
• Small dessert bowls – Presents mousse elegantly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Strain Cottage Cheese (Optional)

For a thicker mousse, place 2 cups 2% fat cottage cheese in a fine mesh strainer over a bowl—let drain in the fridge for 4-6 hours or overnight to remove whey. Press gently with a spatula to speed up draining, ensuring a creamy base. Skip if you prefer a lighter texture or are short on time.

Step 2: Add Ingredients

Add 2 cups cottage cheese (strained or unstrained), 3 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and zest from one lemon to the blender. Spread ingredients evenly around the blade to promote uniform blending—avoid clumping for a faster, smoother mix.

Step 3: Blend to Smooth

Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no cottage cheese curds—pause at 20 seconds to scrape sides with a spatula for even blending. The mousse should look velvety, like whipped yogurt, with a bright lemon scent.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Scoop a small spoonful to taste—add 1 tsp more maple syrup for extra sweetness or 1/2 tsp lemon juice for more tartness, blending for 10 seconds after each addition. Adjust gradually to balance flavors without overpowering the delicate lemony profile.

Step 5: Check Texture

Test the mousse with a spoon—it should be thick yet airy, like soft whipped cream. If too dense, add 1 tsp milk and blend briefly; if too thin, add 1 tbsp cottage cheese. Re-blend for 5-10 seconds to achieve a perfect, scoopable consistency.

Step 6: Transfer to Bowls

Use a spatula to divide the mousse into 3-4 small dessert bowls, about 1/2 cup per serving—smooth the tops for a neat presentation. Tap bowls lightly to settle the mousse evenly, ensuring an appealing look for serving.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the mousse for 30-60 minutes to chill and set, enhancing its refreshing texture and flavor. Serve cold with optional toasted coconut or pistachios sprinkled on top for crunch, enjoying the tangy, protein-packed treat with a spoon.

How to Store It (If There’s Any Left)

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days—stir gently before serving if separated. Freeze for 1 month, thawing in the fridge overnight. Serve chilled as a dessert, snack, or light breakfast.

Pro Tips for Perfect Mousse

• Strain for thicker mousse—removes excess liquid.
• Blend thoroughly—ensures a silky texture.
• Chill before serving—enhances flavor and firmness.

Fun Twists and Ingredient Swaps

• Sweetener Swap – Use honey or agave instead of maple syrup.
• Citrus Twist – Swap lemon for lime zest and juice for a different zing.

Nutritional Breakdown

Nutrient	Per Serving (4 servings total)
Calories	160 kcal
Fat	4g
Protein	12g
Total Carbs	18g
Fiber	0g
Net Carbs	18g

Note: Values are approximate and vary by brands.

Pairing Suggestions

• Top with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a sweet-tart finish.
• Sprinkle with crushed pistachios or toasted coconut for crunch. 
• Crumble a graham cracker over each bowl for a pie-like touch.
• Swirl in a little Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use full-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, it’s creamier—use the same amount, but strain for best texture.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate up to 24 hours before serving—stir before portioning.

What if I don’t have a blender?

Use a food processor or immersion blender, blending carefully to ensure smoothness.

Can I make it vegan?

Swap cottage cheese for plant-based yogurt and maple syrup for agave—blend as directed.

Can I add fruit?

Yes, fold in 2 tbsp mashed berries after blending for a fruity twist.

Final Words

Spoon it up straight from the blender or let it chill for that extra-cool, velvety finish. It’s quick, satisfying, and just the right mix of sweet and tart.

Keep it simple or top it with berries, a dollop of yogurt, or crushed graham crackers or any topping of choice. Either way, it’s a solid dessert move—no effort, big reward.