Creamy Peanut Butter Mousse with Chocolate Ganache – Easy No-Bake Dessert

There’s something magical about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate. The rich, nutty depth of peanut butter meets the silky, bittersweet taste of chocolate in a way that feels both comforting and indulgent. Now imagine those flavors coming together in a luscious, airy mousse topped with a smooth, glossy chocolate ganache. Peanut Butter Mousse is the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes after the first bite, savoring every spoonful.

This peanut butter mousse with chocolate ganache is a no-bake dream. It’s creamy, rich, and absolutely irresistible, yet so simple to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dessert, a fancy treat for guests, or just an excuse to satisfy your peanut butter cravings, this recipe is here for you.

One of the best things about this mousse is that it comes together with just a few ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s completely plant-based, making it a great option for those who are dairy-free. With coconut cream replacing traditional heavy cream, you still get that thick, velvety texture without any dairy. The chocolate ganache, made with melted dark chocolate and coconut milk, adds an extra layer of richness that balances the peanut butter mousse perfectly.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortless yet elegant it is. It takes less than 15 minutes of active prep, and then the fridge does the rest of the work. Whether you’re serving it in small mason jars, ramekins, or even fancy martini glasses, it looks and tastes like a gourmet dessert—without any complicated techniques.

So, if you love peanut butter, chocolate, and easy desserts, this is your new go-to treat. Let’s dive into why this peanut butter mousse deserves a spot in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this peanut butter mousse, and once you try it, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along. Here’s what makes this dessert absolutely irresistible:

1. It’s No-Bake and Super Easy – No need to turn on the oven or fuss with complicated techniques. Everything comes together in one bowl and a saucepan, making it perfect for beginners.
2. Rich, Creamy, and Fluffy – The combination of whipped coconut cream and peanut butter creates a light yet indulgent texture. It’s creamy without being too heavy, making each bite melt in your mouth.
3. Chocolate and Peanut Butter Perfection – There’s a reason why peanut butter and chocolate are one of the most beloved dessert pairings. The nutty, slightly salty peanut butter balances beautifully with the deep, bittersweet chocolate ganache.
4. Plant-Based and Dairy-Free – This recipe is completely dairy-free, making it a great choice for those who avoid milk or follow a plant-based lifestyle. The coconut cream provides the same luxurious texture as whipped cream.
5. Customizable and Versatile – You can easily tweak this recipe to fit your preferences. Want it extra sweet? Add more maple syrup. Prefer almond butter instead? Go for it! You can even swap in white chocolate for a fun twist.
6. Make-Ahead Friendly – This mousse actually gets better as it chills. You can make it a day ahead, making it an ideal dessert for dinner parties or meal prep.
7. Minimal Ingredients – You only need five ingredients for the mousse and two for the ganache. That’s it! Simple yet so incredibly delicious.
8. Great for Any Occasion – Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a casual treat, or even a midnight snack, this mousse feels like a fancy indulgence without the effort.

Now that you know why this peanut butter mousse is a must-try, let’s talk about the health benefits that make this dessert even more exciting.

Health Benefits

While this peanut butter mousse is undoubtedly indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits thanks to its wholesome ingredients. Here’s why you can enjoy this treat with a little less guilt:

1. Peanut Butter is Packed with Protein and Healthy Fats – Peanut butter is a great source of plant-based protein and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. It provides long-lasting energy and helps keep you feeling satisfied.
2. Coconut Cream Contains Beneficial Fats – The healthy fats in coconut cream can support metabolism and provide a rich source of MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides), which can be an excellent energy source for the body.
3. Dark Chocolate is Full of Antioxidants – Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which have been linked to heart health, improved brain function, and reduced inflammation. The higher the cocoa content, the better!
4. Naturally Sweetened with Maple Syrup – Instead of refined sugar, this recipe uses maple syrup, which adds a touch of natural sweetness without causing a spike in blood sugar levels. Maple syrup also contains small amounts of minerals like manganese and zinc.
5. Dairy-Free and Vegan-Friendly – By using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, this dessert is completely dairy-free, making it a great option for those who are lactose-intolerant or following a plant-based diet.
6. Gluten-Free – Since there are no wheat-based ingredients, this mousse is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

While this dessert isn’t necessarily “low-calorie,” it’s made with real, wholesome ingredients that provide both flavor and nutritional value. That means you can enjoy it in moderation while still nourishing your body.

Now that you know why this recipe is both delicious and nutritious, let’s go over the preparation time, servings, and nutritional information so you can plan accordingly.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this peanut butter mousse is that it comes together quickly and requires very little effort. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes (or more for best texture)
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings:

• This recipe makes 4 generous servings or 6 smaller portions if you prefer lighter portions.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~350-400 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 10g

While the exact macros will vary based on your ingredients, this mousse is relatively high in healthy fats and protein, making it a more satisfying dessert. If you want a lower-calorie option, you can reduce the amount of peanut butter or use a sugar-free sweetener.

Now that we have everything planned out, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious, no-bake dessert.

Ingredients List

To make this creamy peanut butter mousse with a luscious chocolate ganache, you only need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

The Peanut Butter Mousse:

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy, natural, and unsweetened)
• 1 cup coconut cream (chilled overnight for best results)
• ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey, if not strictly vegan)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (balances sweetness and enhances flavor)

The Chocolate Ganache:

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed)
• ¼ cup coconut milk (or any plant-based milk)

Optional Toppings (Highly Recommended!):

• Chopped peanuts (for crunch)
• Shaved dark chocolate (for extra indulgence)
• Sea salt flakes (a touch of salt enhances the sweetness)

With just these simple ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth mousse that tastes like it came from a fancy dessert shop.

Now, let’s get to the fun part—the step-by-step instructions to bring this delicious mousse to life!

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have everything ready, let’s walk through the process of making this delicious peanut butter mousse with chocolate ganache step by step. It’s an easy recipe, but paying attention to small details will ensure the best texture and flavor.

 1: Prepare the Coconut Cream

1. Chill the coconut cream overnight. Place a can of full-fat coconut milk in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight. This helps separate the thick coconut cream from the liquid. If you’re short on time, at least 2-3 hours in the fridge can still help.
2. Scoop out the thick part. Open the chilled can and carefully scoop out only the solidified coconut cream into a mixing bowl. The leftover coconut water can be saved for smoothies or other recipes.

 2: Whip the Coconut Cream

1. Beat until fluffy. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the coconut cream on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. It should resemble the texture of softly whipped cream.
2. Set aside. Once whipped, set it aside while you prepare the peanut butter mixture.

 3: Make the Peanut Butter Mixture

1. Mix peanut butter and maple syrup. In a separate mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of creamy peanut butter with ¼ cup of maple syrup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly glossy.
2. Add vanilla and salt. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon of sea salt to enhance the flavor.
3. Fold in the whipped coconut cream. Gently fold the whipped coconut cream into the peanut butter mixture using a silicone spatula. Do not overmix—just stir enough to combine everything smoothly. The goal is to keep the mousse light and airy.

 4: Assemble the Mousse Cups

1. Spoon the mousse into serving cups. Divide the mousse evenly into 4 to 6 small ramekins, dessert cups, or mason jars. Smooth the tops with a spoon or spatula.
2. Chill for at least 30 minutes. Refrigerate the mousse for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour so it firms up slightly. If you have time, letting it chill for 2-3 hours will give you an even better texture.

 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. Warm the coconut milk. In a small saucepan, heat ¼ cup of coconut milk over low heat until it’s warm but not boiling. If using a microwave, heat it for about 30 seconds.
2. Melt the chocolate. Pour the warm coconut milk over ½ cup of dark chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for about 1 minute, then stir until completely smooth and glossy.
3. Let it cool slightly. Allow the ganache to cool for a couple of minutes before pouring it over the mousse.

 6: Add the Chocolate Ganache

1. Spoon the ganache over the mousse. Evenly divide the chocolate ganache between the mousse cups, gently spreading it to cover the top.
2. Chill again for at least 15 minutes. This allows the ganache to set slightly and create a smooth, fudgy layer.

 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Add toppings. Sprinkle chopped peanuts, shaved dark chocolate, or a pinch of sea salt flakes on top for extra flavor and crunch.
2. Serve chilled. This mousse tastes best when cold, so keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it.

That’s it! With just a few simple steps, you have a decadent, creamy dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Serve

This peanut butter mousse is incredibly versatile and can be served in different ways to suit your occasion. Here are some great serving ideas:

• Elegant Presentation: Serve the mousse in small glasses, ramekins, or martini glasses for a fancy dessert that’s perfect for dinner parties.
• Casual Treat: Spoon the mousse into mason jars for an easy, grab-and-go dessert.
• Layered Parfait Style: Alternate layers of mousse with crushed graham crackers, chopped peanuts, or crushed cookies for added texture.
• Frozen Mousse: If you love a firmer, ice-cream-like texture, freeze the mousse for 1-2 hours before serving.
• Whipped Cream Addition: If you’re not strictly dairy-free, add a dollop of whipped cream or dairy-free coconut whipped topping.
• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh strawberries, bananas, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mousse.

However you decide to serve it, this mousse is guaranteed to impress!

Pairing Suggestions

To make this dessert even more enjoyable, try pairing it with:

• A hot cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of coffee perfectly balances the rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
• Herbal tea, such as peppermint or chai. The warm spices complement the creamy texture of the mousse.
• A glass of almond or oat milk. This makes a simple yet delicious pairing, especially for kids.
• Crispy cookies or biscotti. Serve with vanilla wafers or crunchy cookies for a fun contrast in texture.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This peanut butter mousse stores beautifully, so you can make it ahead of time or save leftovers for later.

Refrigeration

• Store the mousse covered in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• You can freeze the mousse for up to 2 months. Just cover it tightly and let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
• If you prefer a firmer, ice-cream-like texture, eat it straight from the freezer!

Reheating (If Needed)

• This mousse is best enjoyed cold, but if it becomes too firm in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure the best results, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Using the wrong type of peanut butter. Stick to natural, creamy peanut butter without added sugars or oils.
2. Skipping the coconut cream chilling step. If the coconut cream isn’t chilled, it won’t whip properly.
3. Overmixing the mousse. Fold gently to keep the mixture light and airy.
4. Not allowing enough chilling time. The mousse needs at least 30 minutes to set properly.

Pro Tips

1. For extra fluffiness, whip the coconut cream separately before adding it to the peanut butter mixture.
2. Use a high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more) for the best ganache flavor.
3. Make ahead for the best flavor! The mousse develops even richer flavors when chilled overnight.
4. Experiment with different nut butters. Almond or cashew butter can be delicious substitutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes! Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

2. Can I use regular heavy cream instead of coconut cream?

Absolutely! If you’re not dairy-free, you can use whipped heavy cream instead.

3. Can I make this mousse sugar-free?

Yes! Replace maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup or stevia.

4. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes! Just double all ingredients and use a large mixing bowl.

5. Can I make this into a mousse pie?

Yes! Pour the mousse into a graham cracker crust and chill until firm for an easy peanut butter chocolate pie.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now that you have everything you need to make this creamy peanut butter mousse with chocolate ganache, it’s time to get in the kitchen and try it for yourself! Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this dessert is guaranteed to be a hit.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your experience, or tag me on social media with a photo of your mousse. Enjoy!

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