If you are a devoted peanut butter fan and crave a dessert that feels both light and decadently creamy, let me introduce you to the Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe. This delightful treat combines the smooth richness of peanut butter and cream cheese whipped together with airy heavy cream, all studded with crisp roasted peanuts for a perfect crunchy contrast. It’s an effortless, no-bake indulgence that hits every note from silky to crunchy, sweet to nutty, making it one of my absolute favorite desserts to whip up any time I want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its beautifully simple and straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the mousse’s rich, creamy texture and balanced flavor—from the luscious peanut butter that lends depth to the dish, to the whipped cream that keeps things light and fluffy, to the roasted peanuts that add that irresistible crunch.
- Heavy whipping cream: Use 1 cup to create the light, airy base that makes this mousse melt-in-your-mouth.
- Creamy peanut butter: ½ cup is key for that unmistakable, nutty richness that defines this dessert.
- Cream cheese, softened: 4 ounces bring a subtle tang and velvety texture that perfectly complements the peanut butter.
- Powdered sugar: ⅓ cup adds just the right touch of sweetness while blending seamlessly into the mousse.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon enhances the overall flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
- Chopped roasted peanuts: ¼ cup mixed in and extra for garnish, providing irresistible crunch and a roasted flavor boost.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Perfect if your peanut butter is unsalted, it rounds out and balances the sweetness beautifully.
How to Make Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start by pouring the heavy whipping cream into a medium mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on high speed to beat the cream until it forms stiff peaks—this means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds its shape firmly without collapsing. This airy whipped cream is what gives the mousse its delightful lightness, so be patient to get those perfect peaks before moving on.
Step 2: Blend the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat these together on medium speed until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. If your peanut butter lacks salt, add a tiny pinch now to enhance all the flavors. This luscious base will be folded into the whipped cream for that dreamy mousse texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Whipped Cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into your peanut butter mixture in two additions. Use a large spatula and carefully fold, rather than stir vigorously, to maintain the light, fluffy texture. The folding technique ensures the mousse stays airy and delicate rather than dense.
Step 4: Add Crunchy Peanuts
Now fold in the chopped roasted peanuts evenly to distribute that delightful crunch throughout the mousse. These little bits add incredible texture and a roasted depth that takes the dessert to a whole new level.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Spoon the mousse into small serving glasses or bowls, cover, and chill for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. This chilling step helps the mousse set beautifully and lets the flavors meld together. Just before serving, sprinkle some extra chopped peanuts on top to add a fresh, crunchy finish.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation by garnishing the mousse with a sprinkle of extra chopped roasted peanuts. For a pop of color and flavor contrast, try adding a few fresh mint leaves or a light drizzle of chocolate syrup. Each garnish adds a unique flair and makes your Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe look as stunning as it tastes.
Side Dishes
While this mousse shines brightly on its own, you can serve it alongside some crisp, buttery shortbread cookies or chocolate-dipped pretzels for a delightful textural contrast. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced bananas make vibrant, refreshing companions that balance the mousse’s richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the mousse with crushed cookies or a thin chocolate ganache at the bottom of clear glasses for a stunning visual effect. You can also pipe the mousse using a large star tip into small cups for an elegant touch at dinner parties or special occasions. The versatility of this Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe allows you to get creative and impress your guests with flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This mousse keeps wonderfully well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered tightly. Just be sure to keep it chilled in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the mousse’s texture may change slightly once thawed because of the dairy content. If you must freeze it, place it in a sealed container and thaw in the fridge overnight. Give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the fluffiness as much as possible.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. It’s best enjoyed cold and freshly served to savor the full creaminess and crunch of the peanuts.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
You can substitute crunchy peanut butter, but keep in mind it will add extra texture inside the mousse itself. If you want the mousse silky smooth with defined crunchy bits only from the roasted peanuts, stick with creamy peanut butter.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this mousse?
For a dairy-free option, you can try substituting coconut cream for heavy whipping cream and use vegan cream cheese. The flavor will differ slightly but can still be delicious with the same peanut butter and peanut crunch elements.
How can I make this mousse sweeter or less sweet?
You can easily adjust sweetness by altering the powdered sugar amount. Use more if you like it sweeter or reduce it slightly if you prefer a more nut-forward, less sugary dessert.
What’s the best way to fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture?
Use a large spatula and a gentle folding motion—cut through the center, sweep around the bowl, and lift the mixture over the top. Repeat slowly to keep as much air in the whipped cream as possible for that fluffy light mousse.
Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?
Absolutely! Simply double all ingredients and follow the same steps. Just make sure your mixing bowls are large enough to handle the increased volume and maintain the right folding technique.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, the Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both indulgent and surprisingly light. It’s a joy to make and even more delightful to savor, proving that simple ingredients can create spectacular desserts. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes for a quick, no-fuss, utterly delicious sweet treat.
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Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts is a luscious, no-bake dessert that combines creamy peanut butter with whipped cream and cream cheese for a rich and satisfying treat. Enhanced with chopped roasted peanuts for an irresistible crunch, it’s perfect for peanut butter lovers looking for an easy yet indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
Mousse Base
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, if using unsalted peanut butter)
Crunchy Peanuts
- ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, then set aside to maintain its volume and texture.
- Mix Peanut Butter Base: In another bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. If your peanut butter is unsalted, add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in two additions. Use a spatula to carefully incorporate the whipped cream without deflating it, resulting in a light and fluffy mousse.
- Add Crunchy Peanuts: Fold in the chopped roasted peanuts to add texture and crunch to the mousse.
- Chill the Mousse: Spoon the mousse into small serving glasses or bowls and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to set and the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish each serving with extra chopped peanuts for added visual appeal and crunch.
Notes
- This mousse is rich and satisfying, making it perfect for peanut butter lovers.
- For additional indulgence, serve layered with chocolate ganache or crumbled cookies.
- Store the mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
