Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Protein Mousse Recipe
Introduction
This Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Protein Mousse is a deliciously creamy and nutritious dessert that’s perfect for fall or any time you crave something light and flavorful. Combining pumpkin puree with protein-rich cottage cheese creates a smooth, satisfying treat that’s easy to make and enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 1/4 cups pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup protein powder
- 1/4 cup sweetener (or more to taste)
- 1/2 tbsp gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the gelatin powder with water. Stir until fully dissolved, then let it bloom for about 5 minutes.
- Step 2: In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Add the pumpkin puree, protein powder, sweetener, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and the bloomed gelatin to the blender. Blend until everything is well combined.
- Step 4: Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if needed. Blend again if you add more sweetener.
- Step 5: Pour the mousse into serving cups or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until set.
- Step 6: Once chilled, garnish with whipped cream if desired, and enjoy your creamy pumpkin mousse!
Tips & Variations
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a different texture.
- Swap the sweetener for honey or maple syrup to add natural sweetness.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warm spice notes.
- For a vegan version, replace gelatin with agar-agar powder following package instructions.
Storage
Store the mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, consume it chilled. If the mousse thickens too much after storage, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving or gently stir to soften.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin, but make sure it is smooth and well-drained to avoid extra moisture affecting the mousse consistency.
What protein powder works best in this recipe?
Whey, casein, or plant-based protein powders all work well. Choose a mild-flavored powder to avoid overpowering the pumpkin and spices.
Print
Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Protein Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Protein Mousse is a creamy, protein-packed dessert perfect for fall. Combining smooth cottage cheese with pumpkin puree and warm pumpkin pie spices, it’s lightly sweetened and set with gelatin for a satisfying, fluffy texture. Ideal as a healthy snack or dessert, it offers a delicious way to enjoy seasonal flavors while boosting your protein intake.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 1/4 cups pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup protein powder
- 1/4 cup sweetener (or more to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Setting Agent
- 1/2 tbsp gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp water
Instructions
- Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, combine the gelatin powder with water. Stir until fully dissolved, then let it bloom for about 5 minutes to activate the gelatin.
- Blend cottage cheese: In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy to create a consistent base texture.
- Add remaining ingredients: Add the pumpkin puree, protein powder, sweetener, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and bloomed gelatin to the blender. Blend everything until well combined and smooth.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the mixture and add more sweetener if desired. Blend again to incorporate any additional sweetener thoroughly.
- Refrigerate to set: Pour the mousse mixture into serving cups or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until the mousse is fully set and chilled.
- Serve and garnish: Once chilled, optionally garnish with whipped cream or your favorite topping before serving for an extra touch of indulgence.
Notes
- You can substitute the protein powder with your favorite type such as whey, plant-based, or collagen protein.
- For a vegan version, use agar-agar powder instead of gelatin and plant-based cottage cheese alternatives, though texture may vary.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or a low-calorie sweetener.
- Make sure the cottage cheese is well blended to avoid grainy texture in the mousse.
- Refrigeration time is crucial to allow the mousse to properly set and achieve the right texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin mousse, cottage cheese dessert, protein mousse, healthy pumpkin dessert, high protein dessert, fall recipes, low fat dessert
