If you’re searching for a dessert that’s equal parts luscious and playful, this Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts is about to become your new obsession. Imagine impossibly fluffy clouds of peanut butter cream, perfectly balanced by a scattering of crunchy roasted peanuts in every bite. With no baking required and just a handful of pantry staples, it’s a treat you can whip up in minutes but that tastes like something you’d find at a fancy bistro. Whether you serve it in elegant little glasses or scoop it straight from the bowl, you’re in for a sweet, nutty delight that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts truly shine is its simplicity—each ingredient adds a special touch, from the creaminess of the whipped cream and peanut butter to the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts. Gather these essentials and let them work their magic!
- Heavy whipping cream (cold): The backbone of mousse, this creates a dreamy lightness and silky texture.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds body and a subtle tang that balances the sweet and nutty flavors.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star player—smooth, rich, and loaded with peanut flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens everything just right and dissolves seamlessly for a smooth finish.
- Vanilla extract: A little vanilla rounds out the flavors and brings a warm, aromatic note.
- Chopped roasted peanuts (plus extra for garnish): This is where the “crunchy” part comes in—adding texture and a deep, toasty nut flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Just a touch amplifies all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
How to Make Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start by pouring the cold heavy whipping cream into a mixing bowl. Beat it on medium-high speed until you see stiff peaks forming—this means the cream will stand up on its own when you lift the whisk. Set it aside (but try not to eat it all with a spoon just yet!).
Step 2: Beat the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a separate large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a tiny pinch of salt. Using an electric mixer, beat until the mixture is ultra-smooth, creamy, and a little bit glossy. This is where all that peanut butter flavor gets concentrated and ready for mousse magic.
Step 3: Fold Everything Together
This is the fun part! Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture, doing it in batches with a spatula. Take your time and use a light hand—you want to keep that fluffy, airy texture. Once it’s mostly combined, sprinkle in the chopped roasted peanuts and give it one more gentle fold. The result should be light, cloud-like, with delightful bits of crunchy peanuts throughout.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Spoon the finished mousse into small serving glasses or bowls. For best results, pop them in the fridge for at least an hour to set up and get beautifully cold. Just before serving, scatter extra chopped peanuts on top to double down on the crunch and make things look extra inviting.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts
Garnishes
The finishing touch is always extra chopped roasted peanuts sprinkled over each serving, giving that signature crunch and a pretty, rustic look. For a little extra flair, you can add a drizzle of melted chocolate, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Side Dishes
Since Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts is rich and satisfying, keep sides light and fresh. Sliced strawberries or banana, a crisp apple salad, or wafer cookies for dipping make wonderful complements without overshadowing the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For extra wow factor, layer the mousse with crushed graham crackers, chocolate shavings, or even a swirl of fruit jam in parfait glasses. Serve in tiny jars for a picnic, or pipe into chocolate cups for a party-ready treat. The possibilities for Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts are as endless as your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts (lucky you!), simply cover the serving glasses tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. The mousse will stay delightfully fluffy and fresh for up to 3 days, though the peanuts on top may soften slightly.
Freezing
This dessert actually freezes beautifully! Spoon any extra mousse into airtight containers and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer to the fridge to thaw for a few hours. The mousse will be a little firmer, almost like ice cream—so fun for a summer treat.
Reheating
No need to reheat Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts, since it’s meant to be served chilled. If it’s been frozen, just let it thaw gently in the fridge until it’s soft and creamy again. Serve straight from the fridge for that perfect, refreshing texture.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular?
Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works well, just make sure to stir it thoroughly to mix in any separated oil. The texture may be slightly less smooth, but the flavor is fantastic and a bit earthier.
Is there a dairy-free option for this mousse?
You can make a dairy-free version by swapping in coconut cream for the heavy cream and using a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. The result is just as creamy, with a hint of coconut that pairs nicely with peanut butter.
Can I make this mousse ahead for a party?
Yes, Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts is an ideal make-ahead dessert! Prepare up to 24 hours in advance, keep chilled, and garnish right before serving for the freshest crunch and best presentation.
What can I use instead of chopped roasted peanuts for crunch?
If you prefer something different, try chopped honey-roasted peanuts, toasted almonds, or even mini chocolate chips for an added twist. Each brings its own delicious texture and flavor to the party.
Does this recipe work as a cake filling?
It sure does! Spread the mousse between cake layers or use it to fill cupcakes for a decadent, peanut buttery surprise. Just be sure to keep the cake refrigerated so the mousse stays firm and fluffy.
Final Thoughts
If you love creamy, dreamy desserts with a little bit of crunch, you owe it to yourself to try this Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts. It’s a breeze to make, endlessly adaptable, and sure to be a hit whether you’re whipping it up for yourself or sharing with friends. Grab your spoon and dive in—you’ll want to savor every single bite!
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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-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts is a rich, creamy, and fluffy no-bake dessert perfect for peanut butter lovers. Combining smooth peanut butter, whipped cream, and cream cheese, it offers a luscious texture with a delightful crunch from roasted peanuts.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Toppings
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will help create the mousse’s light and airy texture. Set aside.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated for balanced flavor and texture.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in batches using a spatula. This folding technique preserves the fluffiness. Stir in the chopped roasted peanuts to add crunch throughout the mousse.
- Chill the Mousse: Spoon the mousse into small serving glasses or bowls. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, top each mousse with extra chopped roasted peanuts to add an appealing crunchy texture and nutty flavor contrast.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use light cream cheese and natural peanut butter to reduce fat content.
- For extra texture and flavor, layer the mousse with crushed graham crackers or chocolate shavings to create a parfait-style dessert.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
