Ricotta Mousse

If you love desserts that are easy to make but feel a little fancy (like lemon posset and white chocolate mousse), this ricotta mousse is going to be a new favorite. It’s wonderfully creamy with just the right amount of sweetness, and it comes together with minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients.

This is the kind of dessert that feels right at home at a dinner party, but it’s also simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. I topped our servings with mandarin orange segments, which added a lovely pop of color and flavor, but it’s easy to change things up with whatever fruit you have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Mousse Recipe

• Just five ingredients. Nothing fancy, just simple ingredients that work together beautifully.
• No baking required. A perfect warm-weather or make-ahead dessert.
• Quick to make. The mousse comes together in minutes, then just chill and serve.
• Light and creamy. The texture is so smooth and airy, especially with the added cream.
• Easily customizable. Top it with citrus, fruit toppings, or even a swirl of honey.

What You’ll Need

• Ricotta cheese – Whole milk ricotta cheese gives the best texture and flavor. Make sure it’s smooth and not too watery. Drain it first if needed.
• Honey – Adds a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the ricotta. You can adjust the amount to taste.
• Vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor without overpowering it.
• Heavy cream – Optional, but blending in a bit of cream creates a smoother, lighter mousse.
• Lemon zest – Just a little adds brightness and balances the sweetness with a hint of citrus.
• Salt – A small pinch helps bring out all the flavors.

How to Make Ricotta Mousse

• Blend the ingredients. Add the ricotta, honey, vanilla, lemon zest, and salt to a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
• Add the cream. Pour in the heavy cream and blend again briefly until the mixture is light and fluffy.

• Taste and adjust. Give it a quick taste and adjust the sweetness or lemon zest if needed.
• Chill the mousse. Spoon the mousse into individual glasses or ramekins and refrigerate for at least an hour.
• Serve and enjoy. Top with your favorite fruit, like mandarin segments or fresh berries. A drizzle of honey is also a delicious option.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Switch up the citrus. Lemon zest is lovely, but orange or even lime will add a different twist. You can also skip the zest entirely for a more neutral flavor.
• Try different sweeteners. Honey is classic, but maple syrup or powdered sugar can be used instead. Each brings a slightly different flavor.
• Top it your way. Fresh citrus segments (like mandarins or blood oranges) add a juicy contrast, but berries, compote, or even a spoonful of jam work beautifully, too.
• Add a little crunch. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios, almonds, or amaretti cookie crumbs just before serving for texture.
• Serve in layers. Layer your ricotta mousse with fruit or crushed cookies in small glasses or jars for an easy make-ahead dinner party dessert.

How to Store

Ricotta mousse should be stored in an airtight container or covered tightly in the serving dishes. Keep it refrigerated, and enjoy within 2 to 3 days for the best texture and flavor. If you’re topping it with fruit, it’s best to add that just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

So Simple, So Good