Quick Description:
This Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse is a healthier twist on traditional mousse, using cottage cheese to add protein and create a rich, creamy texture. It’s simple to make, low in sugar, and perfect for when you’re craving something chocolatey but still want a nutritious snack or dessert.
Servings and Timing:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: ~1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
WW Points per Serving: Approx. 4–5 points (depends on sweetener and portion size)
Nutrition per Serving (Approximate for 4 servings):
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 8g
-
Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
-
Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sugar: 3g
- Net Carbs: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
Ingredients List:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sweetener of choice (such as stevia, erythritol, or honey)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- A pinch of salt (optional, to enhance the chocolate flavor)
Instructions:
-
Blend the Cottage Cheese:
In a food processor or blender, blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy. This step is key to eliminating any curds and achieving a mousse-like texture. -
Add the Cocoa Powder and Sweetener:
Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, sweetener, and vanilla extract to the blender with the cottage cheese. Blend until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. -
Add Cream (Optional):
For an even creamier mousse, add the heavy cream and blend again until smooth and velvety. The cream adds richness but can be skipped for a lighter version. -
Chill:
Transfer the mousse into serving bowls or ramekins and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. The chilling time helps the mousse thicken and enhances the flavor. -
Serve:
After chilling, serve as-is or garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, shaved chocolate, or a few fresh berries for added flavor and texture.
Additional Notes:
- Texture Tip: If you prefer a lighter texture, you can fold in whipped cream (instead of blending) for an airier mousse.
- Sweetener Tip: Adjust the sweetness based on your personal preference or the type of sweetener you use. Start with a little and taste-test.
- Chocolate Flavor Boost: Add a small amount of instant coffee powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Dietary Info:
- Low-Carb
- High-Protein
- Can be made Dairy-Free (use dairy-free cottage cheese and whipped coconut cream)
- Keto-Friendly (with sugar substitute)
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide:
- Be sure to blend the cottage cheese well for a smooth consistency — this is crucial for a mousse-like texture.
- If you want a smoother mousse, feel free to strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve before chilling.
- For extra decadence, top with whipped cream or a few chocolate shavings.
Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips:
- Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese will give you the richest texture, but low-fat or fat-free will also work.
- Sweetener: Use your favorite sweetener (stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol) to suit your dietary needs.
- Cream: If you want to keep it lighter, omit the heavy cream or replace it with almond milk.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions:
- Add-ins: Add a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty twist.
- Toppings: Top with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup.
- Layered Dessert: Layer this mousse with crushed nuts or berries in a parfait glass for a beautiful presentation.
Storage and Make-Ahead Information:
- Storage: Store any leftover mousse in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended for freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This mousse is perfect for meal prep. Make it the night before for an easy, protein-packed dessert the next day.
