This Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Mousse is creamy, fluffy, and full of cozy fall flavor — without being too sweet.
It’s super easy to whip up and honestly, it feels like eating pumpkin pie filling with a protein boost.
I love making this for a quick dessert or even a midday treat when I want something comforting but not heavy.
It takes just minutes to prep, and the cottage cheese blends in so smoothly you won’t even know it’s there.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, extra cinnamon, crushed graham crackers
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe started as a little experiment during fall when I had leftover pumpkin purée and cottage cheese in the fridge. I threw them in the blender with a splash of maple syrup, and boom — mousse magic. Since then, it’s become one of my go-to treats.
- It tastes like pumpkin pie but takes 5 minutes.
- Packed with protein thanks to the cottage cheese.
- Perfect for fall cravings without the sugar crash.
- It feels special but takes no effort.
Servings and Time
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes
Macros (Per Serving – Without Toppings)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 14g
- Sugar: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Cottage cheese is rich in casein protein and has a smooth, creamy texture when blended. When mixed with pumpkin purée, which is naturally thick and rich in fiber, you get a mousse-like texture that holds up well. The maple syrup and spices bring out the natural sweetness of the pumpkin while balancing the tang from the cottage cheese.
Common Mistakes
- Using pumpkin pie filling instead of purée: Pumpkin pie filling has added sugar and spices that can throw off the flavor.
- Not blending long enough: If the mousse isn’t smooth, you probably didn’t blend long enough. Give it a good 1-2 minutes in the blender.
- Skipping the salt: Just a pinch brings out the flavors more than you’d think.
What to Serve With
- A warm ginger snap cookie on the side
- Crushed graham crackers sprinkled on top
- A cup of chai or spiced tea
- Whipped cream for a dessert-y feel
- Granola for a fun texture contrast
FAQ
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
Yes! Greek yogurt works well, but it will be tangier and a bit less fluffy.
Can I make it vegan?
Try swapping cottage cheese for a plant-based yogurt or silken tofu. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty.
Can I use a hand blender?
You can, but a high-speed blender or food processor will give you the smoothest result.
Do I have to chill it?
Nope. You can eat it right away. But chilling makes it a little thicker and mousse-like.
Make Ahead Tips
You can make this up to 2 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving. Add toppings just before eating.
Step 1: Add cottage cheese to blender
Add 1 cup of cottage cheese to your blender or food processor.
Step 2: Add pumpkin purée
Add 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (make sure it’s plain, not pumpkin pie filling).
Step 3: Add maple syrup, vanilla, spices, and salt
Pour in 2 tablespoons maple syrup and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, then sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Step 5: Blend until smooth
Blend everything for about 1–2 minutes until it’s completely smooth and fluffy.
Step 6: Serve and top
Spoon into bowls and top with whipped cream, extra cinnamon, or crushed graham crackers if you like.
Leftovers and Storage
Store any leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir before serving. Add toppings just before eating to keep them fresh.
Wrap-Up
This Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Mousse is such a cozy, satisfying treat — and no one will guess it’s made with cottage cheese! It’s creamy, quick, and a total fall vibe in a bowl. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went! Leave a comment below and let me know what toppings you added or any questions you have.