Name: Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ½ cup creamy peanut butter; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; ⅓ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: pinch of salt if using unsalted peanut butter; ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts

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If you’re in the mood for a show-stopping yet unbelievably easy treat, Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts is about to become your new obsession. This rich, creamy, no-bake dessert celebrates everything we love about peanut butter: its velvety texture, nutty flavor, and a glorious hint of salt. Fluffy whipped cream folded into peanut butter and cream cheese creates a mousse that’s light as air but deeply indulgent, all crowned with plenty of roasted peanuts for that perfect, irresistible crunch. It’s the kind of dessert you crave after dinner or dream about at midnight — simple to whip up, but the flavors make it feel extra special. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be making Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts for every occasion.

Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients: you might be surprised at how a handful of kitchen staples can transform into something this luxurious. Each component brings its own magic — from the creaminess of peanut butter and cream cheese, to the billowy lightness of whipped cream, to the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts. Here’s exactly what you’ll need, and why each choice matters:

Heavy whipping cream: This is what gives our mousse its dreamy, cloud-like texture — be sure to whip until stiff peaks for maximum fluffiness.
Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show; choose your favorite brand for maximum flavor and ultra-smooth mouthfeel.
Cream cheese (softened): Adds tang and keeps the mousse thick and luscious without overwhelming the peanut flavor.
Powdered sugar: Gives sweetness and helps everything blend seamlessly; granulated sugar just doesn’t dissolve as smoothly here.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth, bringing out all those nutty notes.
Chopped roasted peanuts (plus extra for garnish): For the signature crunch that sets Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts apart from the rest.
Pinch of salt (optional): Only if your peanut butter is unsalted — just a little sharpness enhances every bite.

How to Make Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Start by pouring the heavy whipping cream into a medium mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer on high speed, beat the cream until stiff peaks form — you want it nice and thick, like a puffy pillow. This is the backbone of your mousse’s airy texture, so don’t skimp on time or elbow grease here. Once done, pop it in the fridge while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Blend the Peanut Butter Base

In a separate large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat this mixture together until smooth and completely lump-free. If you’re using unsalted peanut butter, now’s the moment to add a small pinch of salt. The result should be silky, glossy, and irresistible — don’t be surprised if you want to sneak a little taste.

Step 3: Fold the Mixtures Together

Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter base in two parts. The first addition can be brisk to lighten things up, while the second should be gentle, ensuring you keep as much air in the mixture as possible. The goal is an even, fluffy, and pale mousse without streaks or dense spots.

Step 4: Add Crunchy Peanuts

Once the mixtures are smoothly united, scatter in the chopped roasted peanuts and carefully fold them in. This crucial step makes Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts unforgettable — every bite will have a delightful, satisfying crunch. Reserve a few peanuts for garnish!

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Spoon the mousse into small serving glasses or bowls. Let them chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour (longer is fine!) so the flavors meld and the mousse sets into its perfect texture. Before serving, don’t forget to top with those extra roasted peanuts for an eye-catching finish and all that satisfying crunch.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way in making Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts look utterly decadent. Pile on extra chopped roasted peanuts for sparkle and crunch, or sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, cocoa nibs, or a drizzle of warm chocolate ganache. Even a tuft of freshly whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder will elevate the presentation and bring different flavors to each spoonful.

Side Dishes

Since this mousse is rich and indulgent, it pairs beautifully with sides that lighten things up or offer contrast. Think fresh berries for tartness, thin butter cookies for a textural twist, or even a simple shot of espresso to complement the nutty, creamy flavors. Serve it after a lighter dinner or alongside fresh fruit to round out the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your imagination roam! Layer Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts in parfait glasses with crumbled chocolate cookies or brownie cubes for a show-stopping dessert. Try piping mousse into little tart shells, or go big and spoon it into a trifle dish with alternating layers of chocolate ganache and roasted nuts. However you serve it, don’t forget an extra pinch of roasted peanuts on top for that golden, finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Cover any remaining Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts with plastic wrap or transfer into an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The mousse stays fluffy and flavorful, and the peanut crunch remains pleasantly crisp. Just keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid any flavor surprises.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts if you make more than you need. Spoon the mousse into freezer-safe containers, press a layer of plastic wrap onto the surface, and seal tightly. It will keep for about one month. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before garnishing and serving — it might lose a little fluff, but the flavor and crunch will still shine through.

Reheating

Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, there’s no reheating required! If you’ve frozen your mousse, simply let it thaw in the fridge until it returns to its velvety, mousse-like texture. Give it a gentle stir if needed to revive its lightness, then top with fresh peanuts for that perfect finishing touch.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts?

Yes, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter is looser and may separate more easily, so your mousse might be a touch softer. Give it a good stir before using, and if it’s extra runny, consider reducing the amount by a tablespoon or adding a touch more cream cheese for body.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the core ingredients in Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts are naturally gluten-free. If you add cookies or other mix-ins, double-check the labels to be sure they’re gluten-free as well.

Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Definitely! This dessert is actually at its best after it’s had a chance to chill for at least an hour, or even overnight. All the flavors meld together, and the mousse sets into that crave-worthy, cloud-like state — just keep it covered and chilled until serving.

Can I double or halve the recipe?

Yes to both! Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts is very forgiving and adapts well to smaller or larger batches. Use the same method, just adjust the ingredient quantities as needed. If making a big batch, whip the cream in two rounds so it stays fluffy.

What other toppings can I add?

Beyond extra roasted peanuts, try swirls of chocolate or caramel sauce, chopped candy bars, toasted coconut, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Every addition brings a new layer of flavor and fun — feel free to customize each serving to suit your favorite cravings!

Final Thoughts

Take it from someone who can’t resist a creamy, nutty dessert: Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts is pure joy in a cup. It’s a sweet treat you can whip up in minutes and share with friends and family (or keep all to yourself!). Don’t wait — grab those ingredients and treat yourself to the peanutty, cloudlike happiness you deserve.

Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts Recipe

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4.6 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy decadence of this Peanut Butter Mousse with Crunchy Peanuts. A luscious dessert that combines the richness of peanut butter with the lightness of whipped cream, topped with a satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mousse:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup creamy peanut butter
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: pinch of salt if using unsalted peanut butter

For Garnish:

¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts

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Instructions

Beat Heavy Cream: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In another bowl, beat together the peanut butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add a pinch of salt if using unsalted peanut butter.
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in two additions until fluffy. Fold in the chopped roasted peanuts for crunch.
Chill and Serve: Spoon the mousse into serving glasses, chill for at least 1 hour, and garnish with extra chopped peanuts before serving.