If you’re on the hunt for an indulgent dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavor of cheesecake with the refreshing taste of mint and chocolate, look no further! This Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse is a delightful twist on classic flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, this airy and luscious mousse will steal the show. With its silky texture and a hint of mint, it’s an easy-to-make dessert that will impress your family and friends.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse stands out for several reasons. First, the combination of mint and chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser, providing a refreshing taste that is perfect for warm weather. Second, it utilizes Oreos for a simple and delicious crust that adds a delightful crunch to the creamy mousse. Lastly, the recipe is easy to follow and requires no baking, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The result is a stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes, with layers of flavor and texture that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Shopping List
- 13 (150g) regular Oreos, finely crushed
- 2 Tbsp (28g) butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) cold water
- 1 1/2 tsp gelatin powder
- 1 1/2 cups (350ml) heavy cream
- 2 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, softened
- Green and yellow food coloring (optional)
- 1 tsp mint extract
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups (200g) powdered sugar, divided
- 1 (3.5 oz) bar good quality semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped (or more to taste)
- Sweetened whipped cream, mint leaves, and finely chopped chocolate for garnish (optional)
Tools of the Trade
- Food processor: For crushing the Oreos into fine crumbs.
- Mixing bowls: To combine the ingredients seamlessly.
- Electric mixer: For whipping the heavy cream and blending the cream cheese.
- Saucepan: To heat the gelatin mixture.
- Spatula: For folding ingredients together gently.
- Serving glasses: To showcase your beautiful mousse.
Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust
Begin by finely crushing the 13 Oreos in a food processor until they resemble sand. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreos with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture into the bottom of serving glasses or a large dish to form a crust. Set aside.
Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin
In a small bowl, combine the cold water and gelatin powder. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it blooms and thickens. Once bloomed, gently heat the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip; the cream should be fluffy and light. Set aside.
Step 4: Beat the Cream Cheese
In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
Step 5: Add Flavorings
Mix in the mint extract, peppermint extract, and the slightly cooled gelatin mixture into the cream cheese until fully incorporated. If desired, add a few drops of green and yellow food coloring to achieve your preferred shade of mint green.
Step 6: Fold in the Whipped Cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful to maintain the light and airy texture. Once combined, fold in the finely chopped chocolate, distributing it evenly throughout the mousse.
Step 7: Assemble the Mousse
Spoon the mint chip cheesecake mousse over the prepared Oreo crusts in your serving glasses. Smooth the tops with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, top each mousse with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream, a sprinkle of finely chopped chocolate, and a sprig of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance. Enjoy your Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse!
Customize for Your Needs
- Use gluten-free Oreos for a gluten-free version of this dessert.
- Add crushed mint candies or chocolate chips for added texture.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, substitute the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate.
- Experiment with different flavor extracts—vanilla or chocolate can provide a unique twist.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of powdered sugar to suit your taste. If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, feel free to increase the mint and peppermint extracts slightly. Just be cautious, as too much peppermint extract can be overpowering. The mousse can also be made a day in advance, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings!
Storage Pro Tips
Store any leftover Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you plan to store it, add the whipped cream and garnishes just before serving to keep the mousse looking fresh and delightful.
Popular Questions
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! While Oreos provide a classic flavor, you can use any chocolate sandwich cookie or even graham crackers for a different taste and texture.
Is the mousse suitable for kids?
Yes! This Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse is kid-friendly and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Just be mindful of the mint extracts’ strength, as children may prefer a milder flavor.
Can I freeze the mousse?
While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the mousse for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
How can I make this dessert dairy-free?
To create a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream for the heavy cream. Just ensure that your cookie choice is also dairy-free.
Serve with These
Hungry for More?
If you loved this Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse, stay tuned for more delectable recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth! Whether you’re in the mood for cakes, cookies, or other creamy desserts, there’s always something delightful to create and share. Happy baking!
Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 13 pieces regular Oreos finely crushed
- 2 Tbsp butter melted
- 2 Tbsp cold water
- 1 1/2 tsp gelatin powder
For the Mousse:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 pkg. cream cheese softened
- Green and yellow food coloring optional
- 1 tsp mint extract
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar divided
- 1 bar semi-sweet chocolate finely chopped (or more to taste)
- Sweetened whipped cream, mint leaves, and finely chopped chocolate for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Instructions:
- Begin by finely crushing the 13 Oreos in a food processor until they resemble sand. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreos with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture into the bottom of serving glasses or a large dish to form a crust. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the cold water and gelatin powder. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it blooms and thickens. Once bloomed, gently heat the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip; the cream should be fluffy and light. Set aside.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
- Mix in the mint extract, peppermint extract, and the slightly cooled gelatin mixture into the cream cheese until fully incorporated. If desired, add a few drops of green and yellow food coloring to achieve your preferred shade of mint green.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful to maintain the light and airy texture. Once combined, fold in the finely chopped chocolate, distributing it evenly throughout the mousse.
- Spoon the mint chip cheesecake mousse over the prepared Oreo crusts in your serving glasses. Smooth the tops with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Before serving, top each mousse with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream, a sprinkle of finely chopped chocolate, and a sprig of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance. Enjoy your Mint Chip Cheesecake Mousse!
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Mixing bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Saucepan
- Spatula
- Serving glasses
Notes
- Use gluten-free Oreos for a gluten-free version of this dessert.
- Add crushed mint candies or chocolate chips for added texture.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, substitute the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate.
