Easy No-Bake Mousse

Easy No-Bake Mousse is a creamy, airy dessert that comes together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients. I love how light yet indulgent it feels—perfect for when I want something sweet without turning on the oven. It’s elegant enough for guests and easy enough for everyday cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this mousse because it’s smooth, fluffy, and endlessly adaptable. I can flavor it with chocolate, coffee, fruit, or vanilla, and serve it in glasses, jars, or as a layered dessert. Best of all, it sets beautifully in the fridge and requires zero baking skills—just a whisk and a spoon.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Heavy whipping cream

• Cream cheese or mascarpone (softened)

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

• Optional: melted chocolate, fruit puree, cocoa powder, or espresso (for flavor variations)

• Optional toppings: berries, shaved chocolate, whipped cream, cookie crumbs

Directions

1. I beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

2. In a separate bowl, I whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

3. I gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.

4. I divide the mousse into serving glasses or bowls and chill for at least 1 hour.

5. Just before serving, I add my favorite toppings—fresh fruit, a dusting of cocoa, or curls of dark chocolate.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4–6 servings, depending on portion size. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 1 hour to chill.

Variations

Sometimes I fold in melted chocolate for a rich chocolate mousse, or swirl in raspberry puree for a fruity version. For a coffee twist, I add a teaspoon of instant espresso. I’ve also layered the mousse with crushed cookies or brownie bits for a no-bake parfait.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover mousse in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. It holds its texture well and makes a great make-ahead dessert. I don’t freeze or reheat it—just serve chilled.

FAQs

Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?

Yes, I’ve made it with store-bought whipped topping for convenience. It’s a little sweeter and less airy, but still tasty.

Is this mousse gluten-free?

Yes, the base mousse is naturally gluten-free. I just watch any add-ins or toppings if serving to someone with gluten sensitivity.

Can I make it dairy-free?

I use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream in place of whipping cream. It still whips beautifully and tastes great.

What’s the best way to flavor it?

Chocolate, vanilla, fruit puree, or instant coffee all work. I adjust the sugar depending on how sweet the added flavor is.

Can I pipe the mousse?

Yes. I chill it slightly, then pipe it into cups for a clean, elegant presentation.

Conclusion

Easy No-Bake Mousse is one of my favorite quick desserts—creamy, light, and endlessly customizable. I love how it feels fancy without any fuss, and how easy it is to adapt to any flavor or occasion. It’s the kind of dessert I turn to when I want something impressive but effortless.

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