Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Cups

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If you’re dreaming of something sweet, airy, and refreshingly minty, these Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Cups are exactly what you need. They combine the creamy decadence of cheesecake with the cool zing of peppermint, all served in individual portions that are as charming as they are delicious.

With a fluffy mousse texture and crushed candy canes sprinkled on top, this dessert is made for the holidays or anytime you’re craving a peppermint twist. There’s no baking required, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse

These mousse cups are more than just adorable – they’re bursting with flavor. The blend of cream cheese and whipped cream gives a luxurious yet light mouthfeel, while peppermint extract adds that unmistakable coolness. They’re easy to whip up and even easier to impress with. Plus, you can prep them ahead and serve chilled straight from the fridge.

Do I Need to Use Gelatin in Mousse?

Nope! This peppermint cheesecake mousse holds its own without gelatin. The trick is using a stabilized whipped cream base (thanks to powdered sugar and cream cheese) that creates a firm but silky mousse consistency. That way, you skip the extra steps and still get a lovely set texture.

Ingredients for the Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Cups

This easy dessert calls for just a handful of familiar ingredients that come together to create something truly special.

• Cream cheese – This is the rich base of the mousse. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
• Heavy whipping cream – Whipped until fluffy, it lightens the cheesecake base and gives the mousse its airy feel.
• Powdered sugar – Helps sweeten and stabilize the whipped cream without grittiness.
• Peppermint extract – Just a little gives the mousse its signature cool flavor. Don’t overdo it – peppermint is potent!
• Vanilla extract – Adds balance and warmth to the minty flavor.
• Crushed candy canes – For festive flair and a bit of crunch on top.
• Graham cracker crumbs (optional) – These can be layered at the bottom of each cup for a subtle crust-like texture.
• Whipped cream (for topping) – A decorative swirl finishes each cup beautifully.

How To Make the Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Cups

Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese

Start by beating the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until it’s completely smooth and creamy. This helps ensure there are no lumps in your mousse.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This will be the light, fluffy part of the mousse.

Step 3: Combine and Flavor

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. Add in the peppermint and vanilla extracts, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

If using graham cracker crumbs, spoon a layer into the bottom of each serving cup. Then pipe or spoon the mousse mixture on top. Chill for at least 1 hour to set.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

Top each mousse cup with a dollop of whipped cream and a generous sprinkle of crushed candy canes. Serve chilled and enjoy the peppermint bliss!

How to Serve and Store Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Cups

This recipe makes enough to serve 6 to 8 people depending on the size of your dessert cups. It’s a great option for parties or intimate holiday gatherings.

Serve them straight from the fridge with a spoon and maybe a mini candy cane on the side for fun. You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance – just keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. If you’re adding crushed candy canes on top, wait until just before serving to keep them crisp.

What to Serve With Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Cups?

Hot Chocolate

Nothing pairs better with peppermint than a mug of creamy hot chocolate. Add a peppermint stick for stirring.

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels

The salty-sweet combo balances the rich mousse perfectly.

Sugar Cookies

Soft or crispy, sugar cookies make a great side for scooping or dipping.

Mini Brownies

Add some chocolatey contrast to your dessert table with small bites of dense brownie.

Peppermint Bark

Go all-in on peppermint with this crunchy candy classic.

Espresso Shots

The bitterness of espresso helps cut through the sweetness and enhances the flavor.

Fresh Berries

A handful of tart raspberries or blackberries makes a refreshing pairing.

Cinnamon Spiced Nuts

If you’re hosting, a bowl of spiced nuts makes for a cozy and crunchy match.

Want More No-Bake Dessert Ideas?

If you love these Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Cups, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries with a creamy surprise in every bite.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for a warm, spiced twist on classic cheesecake.
• Ooey Gooey Bars loaded with indulgent sweetness.
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons that blend chewy, toasty, and fruity in one.
• No Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie for a citrusy blast of nostalgia.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a chocolate drizzle or swap in mint chocolate chips? I’d love to hear your variations!

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