Rich, creamy, and impossibly smooth, this Dulce de Leche Mousse is a love letter to caramel lovers everywhere. Made with just four ingredients, it boasts a velvety texture and a deep caramelized sweetness that melts in your mouth. The balance of luscious dulce de leche, tangy cream cheese, and airy whipped cream creates a dessert that is indulgent yet light. The best part? No gelatin, no eggs, and no baking required! Just whip it up in five minutes and serve it fresh for the ultimate treat. Whether topped with a drizzle of caramel, a sprinkle of cocoa, or a handful of crushed cookies, this mousse is bound to impress at any occasion.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 390g (13.4oz) dulce de leche or tinned caramel (thick and scoopable, not sauce)
- 250g (9oz) full-fat cream cheese (like Philadelphia)
- Pinch of salt
- 240ml (1 cup) double cream or heavy cream
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the dulce de leche, cream cheese, and salt.
- Whip the mixture until smooth, creamy, and free of lumps.
- In a separate bowl, add the fridge-cold double cream and whip until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the dulce de leche mixture.
- Continue whipping until the mousse thickens to your desired consistency.
- Spoon the mousse into serving bowls, decorate as desired, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes
Kcal: 283 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
What Is Dulce de Leche?
Dulce de leche, which translates to “sweet milk” in Spanish, is a beloved confection popular across Latin America, particularly in Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil. This luscious caramel-like treat is made by slowly simmering sweetened milk until it thickens and develops a deep golden hue. The result is a rich, smooth, and intensely sweet spread with a toasty, caramelized flavor.
Although similar to caramel sauce, dulce de leche differs in its preparation and depth of flavor. While traditional caramel is made by heating sugar alone (or with butter and cream), dulce de leche relies on the natural sugars in milk to achieve its signature taste and texture. The slow cooking process allows the milk proteins to break down, creating a unique, slightly nutty caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with desserts.
A Beloved Ingredient in Latin American Cuisine
Dulce de leche has been a staple in Latin American homes for generations, appearing in countless recipes, from simple toast spreads to elaborate pastries. In Argentina, it’s used in alfajores, delicate shortbread cookies sandwiched with a generous layer of dulce de leche. In Brazil, it’s transformed into brigadeiros, bite-sized caramel truffles rolled in chocolate sprinkles. It also finds its way into cakes, cheesecakes, and even ice creams.
Given its incredible versatility, it’s no surprise that dulce de leche is the star ingredient in this luxurious mousse. By combining it with whipped cream and cream cheese, the mousse achieves a velvety texture while maintaining its deep caramelized essence.
Why Dulce de Leche Mousse Is a Must-Try Dessert
This mousse is not just about indulgence it’s about simplicity and versatility. Here’s why it stands out:
- Minimal Ingredients – With only four main ingredients, this dessert is incredibly easy to make without compromising on flavor.
- No Cooking Required – Unlike traditional mousse recipes that require tempering eggs or melting chocolate, this version simply involves whipping and folding, making it accessible for beginners.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – The sweetness of dulce de leche pairs beautifully with the slight tanginess of cream cheese and the lightness of whipped cream, ensuring a well-rounded taste.
- Quick to Make – Ready in just five minutes, this is the ideal dessert for when you need something impressive without the hassle.
- Customizable – From toppings to mix-ins, you can elevate this mousse in countless ways.
Variations and Ways to Elevate This Mousse
While the basic dulce de leche mousse is already delicious on its own, you can take it to the next level with these creative variations:
1. Chocolate Swirl Dulce de Leche Mousse
For chocolate lovers, a dark chocolate swirl can enhance the complexity of this dessert. Simply melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it into the mousse before serving. The slight bitterness of the chocolate perfectly complements the caramel tones of the dulce de leche.
2. Nutty Crunch Dulce de Leche Mousse
Add texture to your mousse by incorporating toasted nuts such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts. The crunchy contrast against the creamy mousse creates a delightful mouthfeel. You can also sprinkle crushed cookies like graham crackers or biscotti on top for added crunch.
3. Coffee-Infused Dulce de Leche Mousse
Coffee enhances the caramelized flavors of dulce de leche beautifully. Try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the mixture for a subtle coffee kick. This variation is especially great for coffee and caramel lovers alike.
4. Boozy Dulce de Leche Mousse
For an adult-friendly version, mix in a splash of rum, Baileys Irish Cream, or Kahlúa. The alcohol not only adds depth but also makes this an indulgent after-dinner treat.
5. Fruity Dulce de Leche Mousse
If you prefer a lighter, fruitier touch, try layering the mousse with sliced bananas, strawberries, or caramelized apples. The natural sweetness of the fruit pairs wonderfully with the creamy mousse.
Best Ways to Serve Dulce de Leche Mousse
Presentation is key when serving a dessert as elegant as mousse. Here are some ideas to make it even more visually appealing:
- Glass Jars or Coupe Glasses – Serve the mousse in small jars or coupe glasses for a chic, restaurant-style look.
- Drizzle with Caramel or Chocolate – A final drizzle of extra dulce de leche or melted chocolate adds a stunning glossy finish.
- Topped with Whipped Cream – A dollop of fresh whipped cream balances the richness.
- Garnished with Shaved Chocolate or Cocoa Powder – A dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings creates a sophisticated touch.
- Served with Biscotti or Butter Cookies – A crunchy biscuit on the side adds a contrasting texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Since this mousse is made without gelatin, it is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, here’s how to store it:
- Refrigeration: Store the mousse in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Before serving, give it a quick whisk to restore its airy texture.
- Freezing: While it doesn’t hold its mousse-like consistency after thawing, it makes an incredible frozen dessert! Pour the mousse into popsicle molds or a loaf pan and freeze for up to 2 months for a dulce de leche ice cream alternative.
Conclusion:
Dulce de Leche Mousse is a true celebration of simplicity and flavor. It brings together the luxuriousness of dulce de leche with the airy lightness of whipped cream, creating a dessert that feels both rich and delicate. Whether enjoyed as a quick treat, an elegant dinner finale, or a special occasion dessert, it never fails to impress.
Its customizability allows for endless creativity, making it a versatile choice for all kinds of dessert lovers. Plus, its quick preparation time means you can satisfy your sweet cravings in just minutes.