If you love dessert that feels indulgent yet surprisingly wholesome, the Chocolate Strawberry Cottage Cheese Mousse Recipe is about to become your new go-to treat. This luscious mousse combines the rich, velvety taste of dark chocolate with the fresh, bright burst of strawberries, all balanced by the creamy tang of cottage cheese. It’s a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that comes together quickly, making it perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself on a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this mousse comes from a handful of simple, approachable ingredients that each play an essential role in the flavor, texture, and appearance. These staples create a perfect balance between richness, freshness, and smooth creaminess that will have you coming back for more.
- Dark chocolate chips: Use high-quality chips for a rich, deep chocolate flavor that’s the base of this mousse.
- Coconut oil: Helps melt the chocolate smoothly and adds a subtle tropical note.
- Cacao powder: Adds an intense chocolate punch and deepens color naturally.
- Cottage cheese: The secret creamy ingredient that gives mousse its silky texture with a healthy protein boost.
- Honey: Optional but wonderful, it adds just the right touch of natural sweetness to highlight flavors.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity for a rounded flavor profile.
- Fresh chopped strawberries: Burst of freshness and slight acidity to cut through the richness perfectly.
- Bee pollen, melted chocolate, flaky salt, and additional fresh chopped berries: Lovely finishing touches that enhance texture, flavor, and presentation.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Cottage Cheese Mousse Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Coconut Oil
Start by melting the dark chocolate chips together with the coconut oil. I like to do this in short bursts – 30 seconds at a time in the microwave – stirring in between to make sure everything melts smoothly without burning. This step is crucial because the coconut oil helps keep the chocolate silky and pourable for blending.
Step 2: Blend Ingredients Until Smooth
Next, add the melted chocolate mixture to a blender or food processor along with the cottage cheese, cacao powder, honey (if using), and vanilla extract. Blend thoroughly until you get a smooth, creamy mousse. If you’re using a blender, stop occasionally to scrape down the sides so everything blends evenly. For the best texture, a food processor works wonders here.
Step 3: Fold in Fresh Strawberries
Once you have your silky chocolate mixture, transfer it to a bowl and gently fold in the fresh chopped strawberries. This little step ensures the berries keep their freshness and texture, offering a beautiful contrast to the mousse’s creaminess.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
Now chill the mousse to let it set up to that perfect spoonable consistency. You can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes or pop it in the freezer for 15 minutes for a firmer texture. Either way, you can serve it straight from the bowl or divide it immediately into individual servings to store.
Step 5: Add Your Favorite Toppings and Serve
Finally, don’t be shy to jazz up your mousse with some extra lovely toppings. More on those next!
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Cottage Cheese Mousse Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of flaky salt or bee pollen adds a delightful crunch and subtle complexity that makes every bite unforgettable. Drizzling some melted chocolate over the top brings an elegant finish while a few extra fresh berries add pops of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This mousse pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments like a crisp biscotti, delicate almond tuile, or even a few pieces of toasted nuts. These sides add textural contrast and make the dessert feel even more special without overpowering the delicate balance of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the mousse in clear glass jars or elegant parfait glasses layered with extra strawberries or cookie crumbs. You can also create individual parfaits by alternating the mousse with layers of granola or whipped cream, making an irresistible visual and taste sensation perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra mousse covered tightly in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, so you can easily prepare it in advance for weeknight treats or weekend indulgences.
Freezing
This mousse freezes well for up to one month. Just be sure to place it in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture without losing its luscious creaminess.
Reheating
This mousse is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If it’s firm from the fridge or freezer, simply let it sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Low-fat cottage cheese will reduce the calorie count while still providing the creamy texture needed for the mousse. Just keep in mind it might be slightly less rich.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the cottage cheese for a plant-based yogurt or silken tofu, and choose dairy-free dark chocolate. Keep in mind that the texture will be different but still delicious.
Is honey necessary?
The honey is optional but recommended as it brings a lovely natural sweetness that balances the tartness of strawberries and bitterness of the cacao powder. You can omit it or substitute with maple syrup if preferred.
Can I substitute fresh strawberries with frozen?
Frozen strawberries tend to release more water when thawed, which could make the mousse a bit watery. It’s best to use fresh strawberries, but if you must use frozen, drain any excess liquid before folding them in.
How long does the mousse take to set?
Typically, refrigerating for 30 minutes is enough for a creamy set, while freezing for 15 minutes will give you a firmer texture. Adjust times according to your texture preference.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Chocolate Strawberry Cottage Cheese Mousse Recipe that makes it more than just a dessert — it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients blending into a smooth, delicious treat. I’m so excited for you to try it because it’s not only easy and quick but irresistibly tasty. Whether it’s a weeknight indulgence or something to impress your friends, this mousse is guaranteed to brighten any occasion.
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Chocolate Strawberry Cottage Cheese Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Chocolate Strawberry Cottage Cheese Mousse is a creamy, protein-packed dessert blending rich dark chocolate with fresh strawberries and smooth cottage cheese. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for a healthy treat or snack, boasting a delightful balance of sweetness and fresh berry flavor enhanced with a hint of vanilla and honey.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon cacao powder
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
- 2 teaspoons honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup fresh chopped strawberries
Toppings
- Bee pollen
- Melted chocolate
- Flaky salt
- Additional fresh chopped berries
Instructions
- Melt chocolate and coconut oil: Combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 3 intervals of 30 seconds, stirring after each interval, until fully melted and smooth.
- Blend ingredients: Add the melted chocolate mixture, cacao powder, cottage cheese, honey, and vanilla extract to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides as needed. A food processor works best for even blending.
- Fold in strawberries and chill: Transfer the mousse to a bowl and gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes until set. You can also portion it out into individual serving dishes before chilling.
- Add toppings and serve: Once set, garnish with bee pollen, extra melted chocolate, flaky salt, and more fresh berries as desired. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For a smoother mousse, use a high-speed blender or food processor.
- Honey is optional; adjust sweetness to taste or substitute with preferred sweetener.
- Refrigeration time can be extended if you prefer a firmer texture.
- Make sure to fold strawberries gently to avoid breaking them down too much.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American

