This High Protein Cottage Cheese Mousse is a creamy and tasty treat that’s super easy to make. It’s smooth, light, and packed with good protein to keep you feeling great!
Bored of the same old snacks? This mousse is your new best friend! I love having it for breakfast or dessert—it’s like enjoying a fluffy cloud of deliciousness anytime! ☁️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star ingredient! I recommend using low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter mousse. If you’re dairy-free, tofu could be a great alternative to maintain creaminess and protein.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the mousse a rich chocolate taste. If you’re in a pinch, you can use Dutch-processed cocoa, but keep in mind it can alter the flavor a bit.
Sweeteners: I prefer honey for its natural flavor, but maple syrup works wonderfully too! If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
Greek Yogurt: This adds a creamy texture and boosts protein content. If you want to keep it dairy-free, use a coconut yogurt instead for a hint of tropical flair.
Dark Chocolate Chips: These are perfect for topping your mousse, but if you’re avoiding refined sugar, look for dark chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa or use sugar-free chocolate chips instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Mousse is Smooth and Creamy?
A creamy texture is essential for this mousse. Here’s how to nail it:
- Use a high-powered blender or food processor to blend the ingredients. This helps break down any lumps in the cottage cheese.
- Start by blending the cottage cheese until smooth before adding the cocoa powder and other ingredients. This ensures a uniform texture.
- If using Greek yogurt, add it in small spoonfuls while blending to achieve the desired creaminess without overmixing.
- After blending, taste the mixture and adjust sweetness as needed. This is crucial to set the flavor right before serving.
Lastly, let the mousse chill! This helps all the flavors meld together and gives it a better texture. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Make High Protein Cottage Cheese Mousse
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mousse:
- 2 cups cottage cheese (preferably low-fat)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
- Pinch of sea salt (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful mousse takes about 10 minutes to prepare and needs 30 minutes in the fridge to set. In under an hour, you’ll have a delicious and healthy dessert ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Ingredients:
Start by placing the cottage cheese, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt (if you’re using it) into a blender or food processor. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, free of lumps. This will be the body of your mousse!
2. Adjust Sweetness:
Once blended, taste the mousse! If you think it could be sweeter, feel free to add more honey or maple syrup. Blend again to mix in any extra sweetener.
3. Portion the Mousse:
Next, scoop the cottage cheese mousse into serving bowls or glasses. Make sure to leave some space at the top for the chocolate layer!
4. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips. Heat them in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler on the stove. Once melted, let it cool slightly before pouring it on the mousse.
5. Add the Chocolate Topping:
Pour the melted chocolate gently over the mousse in each bowl, creating a delightful chocolate layer.
6. Garnish with Sea Salt:
To elevate the flavors, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate. It adds a nice contrast and enhances the chocolate taste!
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover your mousse bowls with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set. Once chilled, it’s ready to serve. Enjoy your creamy, high-protein dessert!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
While cottage cheese is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture. Just keep in mind that ricotta is creamier, which might result in a richer mousse!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you prefer a different sweetener, you can use agave syrup, stevia, or any other liquid sweetener of your choice. If using a powdered sweetener, like erythritol, start with a couple of tablespoons and adjust to your taste, remembering that some sweeteners are sweeter than others!
How Long Will This Mousse Last in the Fridge?
The mousse should be good for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Just give it a stir before serving if it thickens up!