Looking for a festive and effortless dessert that will wow your guests this season? These Peppermint White Chocolate Mousse Cups (No Bake) are just the ticket. Silky smooth white chocolate mousse infused with refreshing peppermint, topped with crushed peppermint candies and mini chocolate chips, creates a delightful combination of creamy and crunchy textures. The best part? No oven required! Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply craving a light, minty treat, these mousse cups are an elegant and quick solution.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These mousse cups are irresistibly creamy and boast a perfect balance of sweetness and peppermint freshness. You’ll appreciate how simple the recipe is—just a handful of ingredients and no baking involved. It’s a quick dessert that looks impressive enough for special occasions but is easy enough for a last-minute treat. Plus, the peppermint and white chocolate combo is a classic favorite that pleases almost every palate. Once you try these Peppermint White Chocolate Mousse Cups (No Bake), you’ll find yourself reaching for the recipe again and again during the holidays and beyond.

What to Buy

1 cup white chocolate chips – Choose a good-quality brand for the creamiest mousse.
1 cup heavy cream – This gives the mousse its rich, airy texture.
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract – Adds that cool, refreshing mint flavor.
1/4 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the mousse while keeping it smooth.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor depth.
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies – For garnish and a delightful crunch.
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips – Adds a touch of contrasting chocolate garnish.

Gear Checklist

Mixing bowls – You’ll need a couple for melting and whipping.
Electric mixer or hand whisk – To whip the cream to soft peaks.
Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler – For melting the white chocolate chips.
Spatula – For gentle folding to keep the mousse airy.
Serving cups or ramekins – Choose clear cups to showcase the mousse layers.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure precise ingredient amounts.

The Method for Peppermint White Chocolate Mousse Cups (No Bake)

Step 1: Melt the White Chocolate

Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning, until smooth and fully melted. Set this aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a cold mixing bowl, pour the heavy cream. Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, beat the cream until it forms soft peaks. This means the cream should hold its shape but still be slightly soft and not stiff.

Step 3: Sweeten and Flavor

Add the powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Gently fold these in until fully combined, making sure not to deflate the air whipped into the cream.

Step 4: Combine Chocolate and Cream

Slowly fold the melted white chocolate into the whipped cream mixture. Use a spatula and fold gently to keep the mousse light and fluffy. Be patient—this step is key for that perfect mousse texture.

Step 5: Portion and Chill

Divide the mousse evenly among your serving cups or ramekins. Smooth the tops gently with the back of a spoon or spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies and mini chocolate chips on top of each mousse cup. This adds a festive crunch and a pop of color.

Smart Substitutions

White Chocolate Chips: If you prefer, use white chocolate bars chopped into small pieces.
Heavy Cream: Coconut cream works well for a dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle tropical note.
Peppermint Extract: Use peppermint oil or fresh crushed mint leaves for a natural twist.
Powdered Sugar: You can substitute with any fine, granulated sugar alternative, such as coconut sugar powder.
Crushed Peppermint Candies: Use crushed candy canes or peppermint bark for a similar effect.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Be careful melting the white chocolate—overheating causes it to seize and become grainy. Stir frequently and use short bursts in the microwave.
Whipping the cream to the right consistency is crucial. Under-whipped cream will result in a runny mousse, while over-whipped cream can become grainy.
Folding the melted chocolate into the whipped cream gently preserves the mousse’s airy texture. Avoid stirring vigorously.
Refrigerate the mousse cups for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for the best texture and flavor melding.
For an extra festive touch, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the mousse before adding the crushed peppermint candies.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the mousse cups up to 24 hours in advance. After assembling, cover each cup tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve. The mousse holds its shape beautifully and maintains freshness. If storing longer than one day, add the peppermint candy garnish just before serving to keep it crisp.

Reader Q&A

Can I make these mousse cups vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with chilled coconut cream and use dairy-free white chocolate chips. Make sure your peppermint extract is vegan-friendly as well.

What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies without making a mess?

Place the candies in a sealed plastic bag and gently tap with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. This method keeps the pieces contained and crushes them evenly.

Can I use fresh peppermint leaves instead of extract?

Fresh peppermint leaves can add a lovely flavor, but they won’t be as concentrated as extract. You can infuse the cream by gently warming it with the leaves, then chilling and whipping, but this changes the texture slightly.

How long will these mousse cups keep in the fridge?

They stay fresh for up to 3 days refrigerated. For best texture and flavor, consume within that timeframe and add garnishes fresh before serving.

Because You Liked This

No Bake Chocolate Mousse – A classic chocolate version that’s just as easy and indulgent.
Peppermint Bark – Perfect for adding a crunchy chocolate peppermint treat to your dessert table.
Vegan Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream – For a cold and refreshing minty dessert alternative.
White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies – If you love white chocolate, these blondies are a delicious bake.

The Takeaway

These Peppermint White Chocolate Mousse Cups (No Bake) offer a luxurious blend of creamy white chocolate and bright peppermint flavor with zero baking stress. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you get a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for holiday parties or any time you want a little minty magic. The combination of fluffy mousse, crunchy peppermint, and melty chocolate chips creates a delightful texture experience that’s sure to become a favorite. Keep this recipe in your dessert arsenal for a quick, elegant treat that everyone will love.

Give these mousse cups a try and watch how quickly they disappear from the table. Whether you’re serving family, friends, or yourself, this recipe is a sweet celebration of peppermint and white chocolate bliss!

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