There is something irresistibly delightful about the Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe that makes it a standout treat whenever you crave a creamy yet crunchy dessert. This mousse perfectly balances the velvety smoothness of whipped cream and cream cheese with the nostalgic crunch of chocolate sandwich cookies, creating a luscious, no-bake indulgence that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a casual weekend treat, or to impress guests, this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying, delivering comfort and elegance in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward achieving that dreamy texture and classic flavor in your Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe. Each item plays a crucial role, from the rich creaminess to the delightful cookie crumbles that provide contrast and depth.
- Chocolate sandwich cookies (12, crushed, plus extra for topping): These bring the iconic cookies and cream flavor and add crunchy texture to the smooth mousse.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Essential for whipping into stiff peaks, it forms the light and airy foundation of the mousse.
- Cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Adds a tangy richness and creamy body, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the mousse delicately without any graininess.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- Pinch of salt: Elevates the flavors and keeps the sweetness from overpowering the dessert.
How to Make Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream to Stiff Peaks
Begin by pouring the heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial because the whipped cream introduces lightness and volume, making your mousse airy and fluffy. Don’t rush this part; patience pays off in a mousse with perfect texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, then mix until everything is perfectly combined. This mixture provides a silky tang that balances the sweetness from the sugar and the cookie crumble.
Step 3: Fold Whipped Cream into Cream Cheese
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Folding, rather than stirring vigorously, ensures you keep as much air in the mousse as possible for that light, fluffy texture. Take your time with this part and use a spatula to incorporate the two without deflating the cream.
Step 4: Add in the Crushed Cookies
Carefully fold the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies into the mousse base, reserving some crumbs for garnish. The crushed cookies add bursts of texture and the classic cookies and cream character that makes this dessert so beloved. When folded in, the cookies soften slightly but still provide that delightful crunch.
Step 5: Chill and Garnish
Spoon the mousse into serving dishes or glasses and place them in the refrigerator. Let them chill for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to firm up beautifully. Right before serving, sprinkle extra crushed cookies on top to add an inviting crunch and enhance the presentation.
How to Serve Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe without overwhelming the flavors. Additional crushed cookies on top are a classic choice, but fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of chocolate sauce add a fresh, elegant touch. Whipped cream dollops also complement the mousse perfectly while adding extra creaminess.
Side Dishes
This mousse pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries, whose tartness balances the richness of the dessert. A light cookie or biscuit on the side can enhance the cookies and cream theme further. For a beverage companion, a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk completes the experience superbly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the mousse alternately with cookie crumbles or whipped cream in clear parfait glasses for a stunning cookies and cream parfait. You can also serve it as a filling between cookie layers for a decadent trifle. Individual mini jars or mason jars make the mousse perfect for parties or to-go treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe stays fresh when stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Keep the garnish separate if possible to maintain its crunch, adding it just before serving again. The mousse will retain its creaminess and continues to taste fresh when properly chilled.
Freezing
You can freeze this mousse for a fun alternative texture that resembles an ice cream treat. Transfer the mousse into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw briefly before eating to soften slightly and reclaim the luscious mouthfeel.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow frozen mousse to thaw gently in the fridge to maintain its texture and flavor integrity. This approach keeps the mousse fluffy and indulgently creamy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cookies for this mousse?
Absolutely! While chocolate sandwich cookies are the classic choice for the Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe, you can experiment with other cookies like chocolate chip or even peanut butter cookies for a unique twist. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will change accordingly.
Is it possible to make this mousse dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping heavy cream and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives such as coconut cream and a vegan cream cheese, you can create a dairy-free version of this dessert. Just ensure these replacements whip up well to maintain the mousse’s fluffy texture.
How long should I chill the mousse before serving?
To achieve the perfect consistency, chilling the mousse for at least one hour is key. This allows the flavors to meld and the mousse to set properly. If you prefer a firmer texture, chilling longer or lightly freezing works great too.
Can I prepare the mousse a day in advance?
Yes, preparing the mousse a day ahead is ideal since it needs chilling anyway. This not only saves you time on the day of serving but also gives the dessert more time for the flavors to develop fully, making it even more delicious.
What if the mousse becomes too thick or stiff?
If your mousse feels too thick, gently folding in a little extra whipped cream can lighten it up. Temperature and mixing methods can affect texture, so adjust carefully to keep the perfect balance of fluffy yet scoopable mousse.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s effortlessly elegant, unbelievably creamy, and bursting with nostalgic flavor, this Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe is your new go-to. It’s quick to make, fun to share, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. Don’t wait to whip up this delightful treat and enjoy every luscious bite.
Print
Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cookies and Cream Mousse is a delightful no-bake dessert combining crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with a creamy blend of whipped cream and cream cheese. Perfectly fluffy and rich, it’s an easy-to-make treat that can be served chilled or frozen for a cool, ice cream-like texture.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 12 chocolate sandwich cookies (crushed, plus extra for topping)
Mousse Base
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, which means the cream holds firm peaks when the beaters are lifted.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Then, add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is fully combined and creamy.
- Fold Mixtures Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Mix slowly and carefully to keep the mousse light and fluffy.
- Add Crushed Cookies: Fold in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, reserving some crumbs for garnish. This adds texture and the signature cookies and cream flavor.
- Chill the Mousse: Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to set properly.
- Serve: Just before serving, top the mousse with the reserved crushed cookies for an attractive and tasty garnish.
Notes
- For a fun twist, layer the mousse with extra cookie crumbles or whipped cream to create parfait-style desserts.
- You can freeze the mousse for a firmer, ice cream-like treat—just thaw slightly before serving for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
