Cream Cheese Mousse Recipe
Fluffy. Tangy. Irresistible
If you’ve never tried cream cheese mousse, you’re in for a treat. This dreamy dessert combines the richness of cheesecake with the elegance of mousse, all without turning on the oven. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a romantic date night, or just craving something indulgent and quick, this mousse delivers the perfect sweet treat at your table.
What Makes Cream Cheese Mousse So Special?
- Rich Flavor with a Tangy Twist: Thanks to cream cheese, it has a cheesecake-like depth that balances beautifully with sweetness.
- Light-as-Air Texture: The whipped cream folded in gives it that mousse-like softness.
- Quick & No-Bake: From prep to fridge in under 15 minutes.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: It gets better after chilling, making it perfect for parties.
Ingredient Breakdown:
Here’s what goes into the magic:
- Cream Cheese (full-fat): The heart of the mousse—smooth, tangy, and indulgent.
- Heavy Cream (cold): Whipped to soft peaks, it gives the mousse its signature fluff.
- Powdered Sugar: Dissolves easily and sweetens without grittiness.
- Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor with cozy, familiar warmth.
- Pinch of Salt: Optional, but it sharpens and balances the sweetness.
✨ Want to make it extra luxe? Add a spoonful of sour cream or mascarpone for even more depth.
Cream Cheese Mousse Recipe
Course: DessertCuisine: American6
servings10
minutes1
hrs1
hour10
minutesIngredients
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt (optional)
Directions
- Whip the cold heavy cream using a hand or stand mixer until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy and well combined.
- Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in batches. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving glasses or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and set.
- Just before serving, top with fruit, cookie crumbs, jam, or a drizzle of honey. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother texture.
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
- Fold gently to keep the mousse light and airy.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for make-ahead desserts.
- For an elegant touch, serve in clear dessert glasses or mini jars.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Mousse:
Here’s where it gets fun,this mousse is a chameleon. Try these creative ideas:
🍓 Layered Dessert Cups
Alternate layers of mousse with fresh berries, jam, or lemon curd. Serve in clear glasses for a beautiful, fuss-free dessert.
🍰 Trifle Magic
Layer it with cubes of pound cake, crumbled graham crackers, or brownie pieces. Add fresh fruit and you’ve got an instant crowd-pleaser.
🧁 Cupcake Filling or Frosting
This mousse pipes like a dream. Use it to fill cupcakes or as a soft, creamy frosting alternative for a light touch.
🥧 Tart or Pie Filling
Spoon it into pre-baked tart shells and chill for a stunning, no-bake tart. Top with fruit, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of honey.
🍑 Summer Parfaits
Pair it with grilled peaches or macerated strawberries in a jar. Add a sprig of mint, and you’re golden.
Flavor & Variations:
- Lemon Cream Cheese Mousse: Add lemon zest + a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
- Chocolate Cream Cheese Mousse: Fold in melted (cooled) dark chocolate before the whipped cream.
- Berry Bliss: Blend in a few tablespoons of raspberry or blueberry purée for a fruity version.
- Spiced Mousse: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg makes this mousse perfect for fall.
Pro tip: Want a firmer mousse? Add 1 tsp of gelatin bloomed in warm water before folding in the cream.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store mousse covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Great for making the night before a party or dinner—you’ll love how the flavor deepens after a chill.
Final Thoughts
Cream cheese mousse is one of those recipes that quietly becomes a staple in your dessert lineup. It’s humble but elegant. Simple but impressive. And once you make it, you’ll start seeing all the possibilities,from quick weeknight sweets to showstopper holiday spreads.
So grab a mixing bowl and a whisk,you’re only a few steps away from something truly delicious.
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Delicious Desserts Recipes Team
Mark is a passionate home baker and dessert enthusiast, dedicated to creating easy and indulgent sweet treats. From rich chocolate cakes to refreshing fruity delights, Mark loves experimenting with flavors and textures to bring joy to every occasion.
