4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 ounces Neufchtel cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the Neufchtel cheese, confectioners' sugar, and peanut butter. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. Set this mixture aside.

Step 2: In another bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream and whip it until medium peaks form.

Step 3: Gently fold the peanut butter mixture into the whipped cream. Continue to whip just until both mixtures are fully combined.

Step 4: Divide the mousse evenly into two serving glasses.

Step 5: You can serve immediately, or if you prefer, cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cook's Note

If you dont have Neufchtel cheese, regular cream cheese can be used as a substitute.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	517
Total Fat	44g	56%
Saturated Fat	20g	102%
Cholesterol	88mg	29%
Sodium	265mg	12%
Total Carbohydrate	24g	9%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Total Sugars	18g
Protein	11g	23%
Vitamin C	0mg	0%
Calcium	90mg	7%
Iron	1mg	4%
Potassium	291mg	6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Story Behind 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Mousse

The 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Mousse is a modern twist on classic peanut butter desserts, blending simplicity with indulgence. Its origins trace back to mid-20th century America, when peanut butter became a staple in households due to its affordability and nutritional value. Early recipes often combined peanut butter with cream or sugar, but the mousse variant emerged as a light, airy alternative to denser peanut butter pies and frostings. This particular recipe, using only four ingredients, exemplifies the minimalist approach to dessert-making while maintaining rich flavor and creamy texture.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

Although peanut butter is widely associated with American cuisine, the mousse has subtle regional differences. In the Southern United States, chefs may incorporate a touch of bourbon or honey to enhance the nutty flavor, whereas in Northern regions, the mousse is often paired with chocolate or berries for contrast. Some coastal areas favor whipped cream made from local dairy, giving the mousse a fresher, lighter taste. Despite these variations, the core ingredientspeanut butter, Neufchtel or cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy creamremain constant, preserving its creamy and slightly tangy profile.

Distinctive Features Compared to Similar Desserts

What sets this mousse apart from similar peanut-based desserts is its light texture and restrained sweetness. Unlike peanut butter pie, which is rich and dense, or peanut butter fudge, which is solid and heavily sugary, this mousse offers a delicate, fluffy experience. The combination of Neufchtel cheese and whipped cream creates an airy consistency while maintaining a slight tang, balancing the natural sweetness of peanut butter. Its simplicity in ingredients also makes it faster and easier to prepare, making it accessible for quick home desserts without compromising on taste.

Typical Serving Occasions

This mousse is versatile in presentation and consumption. It is commonly served in small individual glasses or ramekins at dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers. Due to its light nature, it often appears as a finishing touch after heavier meals. Cafs and dessert bars sometimes feature it as a mini-dessert option or part of a sampler menu, highlighting its rich peanut flavor without overwhelming diners. Refrigeration allows it to be prepared in advance, making it ideal for entertaining.

Interesting Facts About Peanut Butter Mousse

• The mousse leverages the creamy texture of Neufchtel cheese, which contains less fat than traditional cream cheese, making the dessert slightly lighter yet still rich.
• Peanut butter was first introduced at the 1904 Worlds Fair, and its popularity has led to countless innovative recipes, including this mousse.
• Despite its simplicity, this dessert has become a favorite among home bakers for its minimal cleanup and quick preparation.
• Some variations add a pinch of sea salt or a drizzle of chocolate on top to accentuate the nutty flavor, creating a gourmet feel with minimal effort.
• Its creamy texture makes it suitable for layering with fruits, cookies, or chocolate, expanding its versatility in more elaborate dessert creations.

FAQ about 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Mousse Recipe

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