Copycat Costco Vanilla Mousse

Creamy, slightly tangy, and packed full of vanilla flavor, this Copycat Costco Vanilla Mousse is the little black dress of the dessert world. Its sturdy but smooth texture makes it great as a cake filling, but also a wonderful dip to whip up for any occasion. Reverse engineering a recipe is definitely not clear-cut, especially when the food probably has a lot of industrial emulsifiers for stabilization. But when it comes to this Costco Vanilla Cake, the filling had to be done and done correctly. While we may not have the exact same ingredients, we can get pretty darn close in flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Mousse is a dessert that delivers on flavor and versatility. Its creamy texture and rich vanilla taste make it perfect as a cake filling or a standalone treat served in a cup. It is quick to prepare and requires just a few simple ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer with whisk attachment
• Spatula
• Plastic wrap

Ingredients

• 5 ounces cream cheese, very soft
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons dry instant vanilla pudding (or dried milk powder for a pudding-free alternative)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl with a whisk attachment, whip cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and lump-free, about 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Add in heavy cream, instant pudding, and vanilla, mixing to combine. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure nothing is sticking to the bowl.
3. Raise speed to medium-high and whip until the mixture thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Cover the surface of the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is very soft before starting to avoid lumps in the mousse.
• Chill the mixing bowl and whisk attachment for better whipping results.
• Be patient while whipping the mousse; it should be thick and hold shape well.

Additional Tips or Variations

If you prefer a lighter mousse, you can fold in some whipped egg whites or whipped topping. For a twist, add a teaspoon of almond extract or a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate version.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of this vanilla mousse is approximately 200 calories, with 5 grams of protein, 18 grams of fat, and 8 grams of carbohydrates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this mousse ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until needed.

What can I use instead of instant pudding? If you prefer to skip the instant pudding, dried milk powder is a great alternative that helps stabilize the mousse.

Conclusion

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Mousse is a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re using it as a cake filling or enjoying it on its own, it offers a deliciously creamy texture and rich vanilla flavor. Give it a try and share your experiences with us in the comments below!