If you’re craving a dessert that feels like the perfect sweet hug, you simply must try this Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe. It’s delightfully airy and rich, blending crunchy Oreo cookie bits with a luscious, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. This no-bake treat effortlessly elevates the classic cookies and cream flavor into a dreamy mousse that’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a quiet moment of pure joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe just right comes down to using a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a star role — from the velvety cream to the unmistakable crunch and flavor of Oreos.
- Oreo cookies (12, crushed, divided): These bring the iconic cookies and cream taste and satisfying crunch that defines the dessert.
- Heavy whipping cream (1½ cups): Whipped to stiff peaks, it creates the mousse’s signature light and fluffy texture.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Adds richness and a slight tang that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the mousse just enough while keeping it ultra-smooth.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and adds a warm, comforting undertone.
- Extra crushed cookies or cookie halves for garnish: A pretty finishing touch that hints at the deliciousness inside.
How to Make Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start by pouring the heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream until stiff peaks form—this is what gives the mousse its beautifully airy and cloud-like texture. Set the whipped cream aside for the next step.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds the rich base that balances the lightness of the mousse while giving it that slight tang that makes every bite more interesting.
Step 3: Combine Whipped Cream and Cream Cheese
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. The key here is to be gentle so you don’t deflate the whipped cream — fold just until everything is combined, resulting in a fluffy, velvety mousse.
Step 4: Add Crushed Oreos
Fold in 8 of the crushed Oreos carefully into the mousse mixture. These cookie pieces provide delightful texture and bursts of classic Oreo flavor throughout.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Spoon or pipe the mousse into your serving glasses or bowls for a neat presentation. Top each serving with the remaining crushed cookies or an Oreo half as a garnish. Chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set beautifully before serving.
How to Serve Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate this recipe instantly. Crushed Oreos sprinkled on top offer extra crunch, while a whole or halved Oreo cookie on the rim of the glass adds a charming touch that hints at what’s inside.
Side Dishes
This mousse pairs wonderfully with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries, which bring a bright contrast to the richness. A light dusting of cocoa powder on the side or even a small scoop of vanilla ice cream can make the experience feel even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, layer this mousse with cookie crumbs in clear parfait glasses to show off the gorgeous textures. You could also pipe the mousse into edible chocolate cups or use it as a decadent filling inside mini tart shells for a fancy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep garnishes separate if possible to maintain their crispness. The mousse will stay creamy and fresh, ready for a second round of indulgence.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this mousse since the texture can change, losing the light, airy quality that makes it so special. It’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled.
Reheating
Because this is a chilled mousse, reheating is unnecessary. Serve it straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cookie instead of Oreos?
Absolutely! While Oreos give this mousse its classic cookies and cream flavor, you can experiment with chocolate chip cookies, chocolate wafers, or even gluten-free cookies to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based whipping cream, and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make this mousse vegan-friendly. Just be mindful that the texture may vary slightly.
How long does it take to prepare this dessert?
The active preparation time is about 15 minutes, but you’ll need to let the mousse chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to achieve the perfect firmness and flavor meld.
Can I make this mousse ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! This Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it the day before your event and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have an electric mixer?
Using an electric mixer makes whipping the cream easier and faster, but you can also whisk the cream by hand vigorously. It will take more arm power and time, but you can still get stiff peaks if you’re patient!
Final Thoughts
This Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe is a delightful treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent all at once. Its creamy texture, combined with the beloved Oreo crunch, makes it a sure favorite for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this dessert as much as I do — it’s a simple joy that genuinely brightens any day.
Print
Cookies and Cream Mousse Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cookies and Cream Mousse is a delightful, no-bake American dessert combining the rich flavors of Oreo cookies with a creamy whipped mousse. Perfect for an easy yet indulgent treat that requires minimal prep time and is sure to impress with its light, fluffy texture and classic cookies and cream taste.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 12 Oreo cookies (crushed, divided)
Mousse
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- Extra crushed cookies or cookie halves for garnish
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This creates the light and airy base for your mousse. Set aside.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. This folding should be done carefully to maintain the fluffy texture without deflating the whipped cream.
- Add Oreos: Stir in 8 of the crushed Oreo cookies evenly into the mousse mixture, distributing the cookie bits throughout.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving glasses or bowls, filling them evenly for presentation.
- Garnish and Chill: Top each serving with the remaining crushed cookies or place a half Oreo cookie on top for an attractive finish. Chill the mousse for at least 1 hour before serving to set the texture and flavors.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute part of the heavy whipping cream with whipped topping to reduce richness.
- This mousse can be layered with crushed cookie crumbs for a parfait-style dessert, adding texture and visual appeal.
