Pineapple Cheese Mousse
A light, creamy mousse blending sweet pineapple and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect as a refreshing appetizer or unique dessert for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the unflavored gelatin in 1/2 cup of cold water.
- Put the gelatin mixture on medium heat and cook until dissolved.
- Add the crushed pineapple and stir to dissolve the gelatin completely. Remove from heat.
- Add lemon juice, sugar, and a pinch of salt to the mixture.
- Chill until the mixture becomes syrupy.
- Fold in shredded Cheddar cheese and heavy whipped cream until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a mold.
- Chill until the mousse is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth mousse, make sure the gelatin is completely dissolved before adding other ingredients. If you prefer a fruitier flavor, consider incorporating additional fruit like diced mango or strawberries. For a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This recipe can be easily adapted for a vegetarian version by using agar-agar instead of gelatin.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pineapple Cheese Mousse chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of shredded coconut or fresh pineapple chunks for a tropical touch. It pairs beautifully with Plain Cupcakes for a delightful dessert spread. Consider serving it alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast, making it a versatile dish for summer gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing the mousse as it may become grainy. If you need to reheat it, gently warm it over a double boiler just until it softens, and then re-whip if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Cheese Mousse contains roughly 356 calories, with 8g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1898mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you need to cook it slightly to soften it and release its juices. This will help integrate it better into the mousse. Make sure to crush it well and adjust the sugar accordingly, as fresh pineapple can vary in sweetness.
Is there a way to make this mousse sweeter?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter mousse, you can increase the sugar to 1/2 cup or add a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup. Just remember to taste the mixture before chilling, as the sweetness may change slightly once the mousse sets.
Can I make this mousse in advance?
Yes, this mousse is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it the day before serving and keep it in the fridge to set overnight. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any odors from the fridge affecting its flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).