This Chocolate Protein Mousse is a creamy and delicious treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt. Made with protein powder, it’s rich and satisfying!
You might even forget it’s healthy because it tastes like chocolate heaven! I love having this as a post-workout snack or whenever I need a chocolate pick-me-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: I love using cold heavy cream because it whips up beautifully for that rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using coconut cream or full-fat Greek yogurt instead.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder delivers a deep chocolate flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa, but you’ll lose a bit of intensity. Carob powder is also an interesting alternative if you want to try something unique.
Chocolate Protein Powder: Both whey and plant-based options work great here. If you want something different, try a vanilla protein powder, but adjust the cocoa for the right chocolate flavor. Make sure to check the sweetener content in your protein powder too!
Sweetener: My go-to is honey or maple syrup, but feel free to use your favorite sugar substitute like stevia or agave. Adjust the quantity to your taste—start small, then taste-test!
How Do I Get the Perfect Whipped Texture?
Whipping the cream to just the right consistency makes all the difference in your mousse’s texture. Here’s how you can achieve that fluffy perfection:
- Use a cold mixing bowl and beaters; this helps whip the cream faster.
- Start at a low speed to avoid splattering, then gradually increase to medium-high.
- Stop whipping once you see soft peaks, then add cocoa powder and protein powder. Gradually continue to whip until stiff peaks form; be careful not to overbeat as this can turn the cream grainy.
Chilling the mousse allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience. So don’t rush the wait!
Chocolate Protein Mousse
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup heavy cream (cold)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 scoops chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 2-3 tablespoons sweetener of choice (e.g., honey, maple syrup, or erythritol)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh raspberries and blueberries (for garnish)
- Grated dark chocolate or cacao nibs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and at least 30 minutes of chilling time. So, set aside at least 40 minutes in total, and then you’ll have a delicious, healthy dessert ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whip the Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the cold heavy cream. Add the vanilla extract to give it a lovely flavor. Using an electric mixer, start whipping the cream until it forms soft peaks. This means it holds its shape but still has a fluffy texture—perfect for mousse!
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, sift the unsweetened cocoa powder directly into the whipped cream. Then, add the chocolate protein powder, your chosen sweetener, and a pinch of salt. The salt highlights the chocolate flavor, making it richer and more delicious!
3. Combine to Form Mousse:
Continue whipping the mixture until everything is fully combined and you see stiff peaks forming. This means the mousse is nice and thick. Just be careful not to overbeat, as that can make it grainy!
4. Spoon and Chill:
Gently spoon the chocolate mousse into serving dishes or glasses. Now, it’s time for the mousse to chill! Place the dishes in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set and let the flavors blend.
5. Add the Garnish and Serve:
Once chilled, remove the mousse from the fridge. Just before serving, top it off with fresh raspberries and blueberries for a pop of color and flavor. If you like, sprinkle some grated dark chocolate or cacao nibs on top for an extra treat!
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your creamy, chocolaty protein-packed mousse! It’s a delicious way to satisfy your sweet cravings while getting a boost of protein!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just chill the coconut cream beforehand and scoop out the solid part for whipping. It will add a slight coconut flavor, which can be delicious!
How Do I Adjust Sweetness to My Liking?
Feel free to adjust the amount of sweetener based on your taste preference. Start with a smaller amount (like 2 tablespoons), taste the mousse, and add more if necessary. Remember that sweetness intensifies with chilling!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream, and swap the protein powder for a plant-based protein powder. Use maple syrup or agave for sweetening if you prefer a vegan option.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving again to restore its creamy texture, as it may thicken slightly upon chilling.