Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seasonal Flavors: The warm spices of pumpkin pie spice combined with the richness of pumpkin puree make this dessert a true fall favorite.
Protein-Packed: Cottage cheese provides a boost of protein, making this mousse a filling, nutritious dessert.
Quick and Easy: Made in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients and no baking required, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something sweet but simple.
Creamy and Light: The smooth texture of cottage cheese blends beautifully with the pumpkin, creating a light and fluffy mousse that’s just the right amount of indulgent.

Ingredients

2 cups cottage cheese
1 cup pumpkin puree
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream and cinnamon for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Blend the Mousse:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, honey or maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. The result should be thick and velvety.
Spoon and Chill:
- Spoon the mousse into four serving glasses or bowls.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Garnish and Serve:
- Just before serving, garnish the mousse with a dollop of whipped cream and a light sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Spiced Pumpkin Mousse:
- Add extra spices like nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for a more intense spice flavor.
Vegan Version:
- Replace cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like tofu or cashew cream. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan option.
Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse:
- For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder or a handful of dark chocolate chips to the blend for a rich and decadent flavor.
Crunchy Topping:
- Add some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy contrast to the creamy mousse.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- This mousse is best served fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating:
- This mousse is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply let it chill until it’s nice and cool for the perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s cooked and pureed to the right consistency.

Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this mousse a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can use any sweetener you prefer, such as agave nectar, stevia, or coconut sugar. Adjust the sweetness to taste.

What can I use instead of whipped cream for a lighter option?

You can skip the whipped cream garnish or use Greek yogurt or coconut cream as a lighter alternative.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Mousse is a perfect dessert for the fall season, blending the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. It’s an easy-to-make, nutritious treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether served as a standalone dessert or with your favorite fall meal, this mousse will quickly become a fall favorite in your household!