Introduction
The quest for high-protein, low-sugar desserts that genuinely satisfy a craving has led us to the glorious creation of Cottage Cheese Mousse. Forget everything you thought you knew about cottage cheese; when blended, its curds transform into a thick, airy, and creamy base perfect for dessert. This Peanut Butter Cup variation takes that blank canvas and infuses it with rich cocoa and salty-sweet peanut butter, mimicking the decadent flavor of your favorite candy bar, but delivering a massive punch of protein and significantly less sugar. It’s quick to prepare, requires zero baking, and is the ultimate guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240g) Small Curd Cottage Cheese (full-fat or 2%)
- 1/4 cup (60g) Natural Creamy Peanut Butter
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) Maple Syrup, Honey, or Sugar Substitute (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon (5g) Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) Vanilla Extract
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) Milk or Water (optional, only if needed for blending)
- 2 mini Peanut Butter Cups, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-step Preparation
- Combine the Base: Place the cottage cheese, peanut butter, sweetener of choice, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract into a high-speed blender or food processor.
Tip: Ensure the cottage cheese is fresh. Older cottage cheese can sometimes impart a slightly sour flavor that is harder to mask in dessert recipes.
- Blend Until Silky Smooth: Begin blending on low and gradually increase the speed. Scrape down the sides frequently. Blend for 2 to 3 minutes continuously until absolutely all curds have disappeared and the mixture has transformed into a thick, uniform, chocolate-colored mousse. If the mixture is struggling to blend, add the optional tablespoon of milk or water.
Tip: The key to the “mousse” texture is patience in blending. If it’s grainy, keep blending!
- Chill and Set: Transfer the mousse mixture into a sealable container or divide it into two small serving bowls. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours. Chilling is essential as it allows the mousse to firm up and achieve its characteristic airy, pudding-like consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Once chilled, the mousse will be significantly thicker. Before serving, sprinkle the top of the mousse with the chopped mini peanut butter cups. You may also drizzle a small amount of melted peanut butter or chocolate syrup for extra decadence.
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields two generous servings. Based on using 2% cottage cheese and maple syrup, each serving contains approximately 320-350 calories. Its primary health benefit is its extremely high protein content (approximately 25g per serving), making it an excellent post-workout snack or a satisfying, filling dessert that helps manage blood sugar levels. It provides essential calcium and is low in highly processed ingredients.
Storage
Store leftover Peanut Butter Cup Cottage Cheese Mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It maintains its creamy texture exceptionally well and will last for 3 to 4 days. Freezing is not recommended, as thawing can cause the mousse to separate slightly and become watery.
Conclusion
This high-protein mousse is versatile enough to be enjoyed as a decadent dessert or even a satisfying breakfast. For variations, try swapping the cocoa powder for a different flavor—a lemon zest and vanilla combination is excellent, or replace the peanut butter with almond butter. If you want an even higher protein boost, try adding half a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder during the blending stage. Enjoy this simple, creamy treat!