Cheesecake Mousse Recipe
Introduction:
Cheesecake mousse is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavor of cheesecake with the light, airy texture of mousse. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, offering a luxurious experience in every spoonful. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something sweet, this cheesecake mousse is sure to impress. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, with no need for baking. Let’s dive into this recipe and discover how you can create this indulgent dessert at home.
Ingredients:
For the mousse:
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional garnishes:
- Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Whipped Cream
Begin by preparing the whipped cream, which will be folded into the cream cheese mixture to create a light and airy mousse. In a large mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment to beat the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overwhip the cream, as it can turn into butter. Once the cream reaches the desired consistency, set it aside.
Step 2: Creaming the Cheese
Next, in a separate large bowl, add the softened cream cheese. It’s essential that the cream cheese is soft to ensure a smooth and lump-free mousse. Beat the cream cheese using a hand mixer on medium speed until it is light and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 3: Adding Flavor
Once the cream cheese and sugar are well combined, add the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and sour cream. These ingredients add depth to the mousse, balancing the richness of the cream cheese with a hint of tartness from the lemon juice and sour cream. Beat the mixture on medium speed until everything is well incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Folding in the Whipped Cream
Now it’s time to combine the whipped cream with the cream cheese mixture. Take the whipped cream you prepared earlier and gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Folding is a technique that helps maintain the airiness of the whipped cream, resulting in a light and fluffy mousse. To fold, gently scrape the bottom of the bowl and lift the cream cheese mixture over the whipped cream. Rotate the bowl as you fold, and continue until the whipped cream is fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the mousse.
Step 5: Chilling the Mousse
Once your cheesecake mousse is fully combined, spoon it into individual serving dishes. You can use small dessert cups, ramekins, or even wine glasses for a touch of elegance. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon or a small offset spatula. Cover the dishes with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mousse is set and chilled. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the mousse to firm up slightly, giving it the perfect texture.
Step 6: Preparing the Topping
While the mousse is chilling, prepare the whipped cream topping. In a clean bowl, add 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, just like you did in step 1. This sweetened whipped cream will add a lovely contrast to the rich cheesecake mousse.
Step 7: Garnishing and Serving
After the mousse has chilled, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Remove the mousse from the refrigerator and add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each serving. For a bit of texture and flavor, you can garnish the mousse with fresh berries, graham cracker crumbs, or chocolate shavings. The berries add a fresh, tangy bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy mousse, while the graham cracker crumbs give a nod to traditional cheesecake crust. Chocolate shavings add a touch of decadence, making this dessert truly special.
Conclusion:
This cheesecake mousse is a perfect combination of rich flavor and light texture, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion. Its no-bake nature means it’s easy to prepare, and with the right garnishes, it can be as elegant or as casual as you like. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or indulging in a midweek treat, this cheesecake mousse is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests. Enjoy!