Name: Vegan Peanut Butter Mousse (with a Chocolate Ganache!)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: PT-485912H37M27S
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter (smooth); 1/2 cup coconut cream (from a can of full-fat coconut milk); 1/4 cup maple syrup (or any liquid sweetener); 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons coconut oil; 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for the ganache)

If you’re looking for a sweet and indulgent dessert that’s both creamy and rich without any dairy, then this vegan peanut butter mousse with chocolate ganache is exactly what you need. It’s a dreamy combination of silky peanut butter mousse layered with a decadent chocolate ganache, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up and doesn’t require any baking, which makes it a great option when I want a quick and satisfying dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan peanut butter mousse is everything you could ask for in a dessert – it’s smooth, velvety, and full of flavor. The best part is that it uses simple plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for anyone following a vegan or dairy-free diet. The mousse has a rich, nutty flavor from the peanut butter, while the chocolate ganache adds a luxurious finish with its silky, smooth texture. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and richness that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter (smooth)
1/2 cup coconut cream (from a can of full-fat coconut milk)
1/4 cup maple syrup (or any liquid sweetener)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup (for the ganache)

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

Directions

Begin by making the peanut butter mousse. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, coconut cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Use a hand mixer or whisk to mix everything together until smooth and creamy.
Once the mousse is well combined, set it aside.
Next, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a small saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup.
Now it’s time to assemble. In small serving glasses or bowls, layer the peanut butter mousse first, followed by a drizzle of chocolate ganache on top. You can repeat the layers for a more decadent dessert.
Chill the mousse in the fridge for at least 2 hours, allowing it to set and the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes

Variations

Nut Butter Swap: You can swap the peanut butter for other nut butters like almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor.
Sugar-Free Option: For a sugar-free version, you can substitute the maple syrup with a sugar-free liquid sweetener like stevia or monk fruit syrup.
Toppings: Add toppings like crushed peanuts, shredded coconut, or even fresh berries for extra texture and flavor.
Add Espresso: For a mocha twist, add a teaspoon of instant espresso to the ganache to complement the chocolate flavor.
Chocolate Mousse: If I want to skip the peanut butter, I can make a rich chocolate mousse by omitting the peanut butter and adding extra chocolate to the mousse mix.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The mousse will keep its creamy texture, and the flavors will continue to develop. It’s best to enjoy it cold, so there’s no need to reheat. However, if you want to enjoy it at room temperature, just let it sit out for about 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

How long does the mousse need to chill?

I recommend chilling the mousse for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up. The longer it sits, the firmer the mousse will become.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this mousse is perfect for making ahead of time! I often prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight in the fridge.

Can I use almond milk instead of coconut cream?

Coconut cream gives the mousse its rich, creamy texture, so I wouldn’t recommend substituting it with almond milk. If you prefer a lighter option, I suggest using a coconut milk substitute that is similar in consistency.

Is this recipe nut-free?

Unfortunately, this recipe is not nut-free due to the peanut butter. However, I can easily swap the peanut butter for sunbutter (sunflower seed butter) to make it nut-free.

Can I freeze the mousse?

While I prefer enjoying this mousse chilled from the fridge, I can freeze it if needed. The texture may change slightly once frozen, but it will still taste delicious. I just allow it to thaw for a few minutes before serving.

Conclusion

This vegan peanut butter mousse with chocolate ganache is a delightful dessert that’s sure to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth. It’s rich, creamy, and so easy to make, which makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special celebration. Plus, the combination of peanut butter and chocolate is always a winner! Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or just a fan of delicious desserts, this mousse is guaranteed to impress.