Introduction
Few desserts are as indulgent and comforting as Dulce de Leche Mousse. Silky smooth, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and the unmistakable caramelized richness of dulce de leche, this mousse is both luxurious and surprisingly easy to prepare.
Originating from Latin America, dulce de leche translates to “sweet milk,” and it lives up to the name. Made by slowly simmering milk and sugar until it turns thick, golden, and flavorful, it brings a deep, toffee-like sweetness that transforms even the simplest dishes into something magical.
In this mousse, dulce de leche is paired with whipped cream and egg whites (or gelatin, if preferred) to create a light yet decadent dessert that’s perfect for dinner parties, romantic evenings, or whenever you want a spoonful of indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
✅ No baking required
✅ Only a few ingredients
✅ Elegant presentation in cups or glasses
✅ Rich flavor balanced by airy texture
✅ Easily customizable (think chocolate, coffee, or nuts!)
Recommended Kitchen Tools
To make the perfect Dulce de Leche Mousse, gather these kitchen essentials:
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
- Saucepan (if making dulce de leche from scratch)
- Serving glasses or ramekins
- Fine mesh sieve (optional, for silky texture)
- Piping bag (for decorative serving)
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for 4–6 servings of heavenly Dulce de Leche Mousse:
Base Recipe:
- 1 cup (240g) dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, cold
- 2 egg whites (or 1 tsp unflavored gelatin for a no-egg version)
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, depending on sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnishes:
- Chocolate shavings
- Crushed nuts (pecans, hazelnuts, almonds)
- Sea salt flakes
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Caramel drizzle
Preparation
Step 1: Whip the Cream
In a cold bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Set aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Beat the Egg Whites (if using)
In a clean, grease-free bowl, whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Add sugar gradually (if using), and continue to whip until stiff, glossy peaks form.
📝 For a no-egg version, sprinkle 1 tsp unflavored gelatin over 1 tbsp cold water. Let bloom for 5 minutes, then warm until dissolved and mix into the dulce de leche.
Step 3: Combine Dulce de Leche and Vanilla
In a separate bowl, gently stir together the dulce de leche and vanilla extract. If your dulce de leche is too thick, warm it slightly until it’s pourable but not hot.
Step 4: Fold Ingredients Together
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the dulce de leche until just combined—do not overmix. Then gently fold in the egg whites (or gelatin if used) until fully incorporated. The mixture should be airy and light.
Step 5: Spoon or Pipe into Glasses
Divide the mousse evenly into serving glasses or ramekins. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, top with chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of dulce de leche. Add a swirl of whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flair.
Tips for Success
- Use cold utensils: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for best results when whipping cream.
- Don’t overwhip: Overbeaten cream or egg whites can separate and ruin the texture.
- Balance the sweetness: Taste your dulce de leche; if it’s very sweet, skip adding extra sugar.
- Let it chill fully: Mousse texture improves significantly after a few hours in the fridge.
- Use a piping bag: For beautiful presentation, pipe the mousse into glasses for neat, elegant swirls.
Recipe Variations
🍫 Chocolate Dulce de Leche Mousse
Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate to the dulce de leche before mixing.
☕ Coffee Infusion
Mix 1 teaspoon of instant espresso into the dulce de leche for a mocha-style mousse.
🥥 Coconut Dream
Replace half the cream with full-fat coconut cream and top with toasted coconut flakes.
🍓 Fruity Touch
Layer with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a berry compote for a sweet-tart contrast.
🧂 Salted Caramel Twist
Add a pinch of flaky sea salt to the mousse and garnish with salted caramel sauce.
Make It Fit Your Diet
✅ Gluten-Free:
This mousse is naturally gluten-free!
✅ Egg-Free:
Use gelatin or agar-agar as a stabilizer instead of egg whites.
✅ Dairy-Free:
Use coconut cream and a dairy-free dulce de leche (available online or homemade with coconut milk and sugar).
✅ Low-Sugar:
Opt for sugar-free dulce de leche or reduce the amount used. Use monk fruit or erythritol in the whipped cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make dulce de leche at home?
Yes! Simmer a can of sweetened condensed milk in water for 2–3 hours (unopened and fully submerged), or bake it in a dish covered with foil in a water bath at 425°F (220°C) for 1–1.5 hours.
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Absolutely! It’s even better the next day. Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze dulce de leche mousse?
It can be frozen, but texture may change slightly. Freeze in airtight containers and thaw slowly in the refrigerator before serving.
Storage & Serving
- Refrigerator: Store mousse covered for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Best enjoyed slightly thawed.
- Serve chilled: This mousse is most flavorful and smooth when cold.
Final Thoughts
Dulce de Leche Mousse is the kind of dessert that’s impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for everyday indulgence. With its rich caramel flavor, airy body, and elegant presentation, it’s a guaranteed hit for anyone who loves sweet, smooth, and satisfying desserts.
Whether you serve it after a Latin American meal or as a sweet finale to a cozy dinner, this mousse delivers comfort and class in every spoonful.
