About This Recipe
These 5-minute Keto Halva Mousse Cups deliver the nostalgic flavor of sesame halva in a light, creamy, no-bake dessert. Sweetened without sugar and finished with a pistachio crunch, they’re perfect for quick treats, make-ahead desserts, or a fuss-free dinner party finale.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup tahini (well-stirred)
- 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3–1/2 cup powdered monk fruit/erythritol sweetener (to taste)
- 1 tsp alcohol-free vanilla extract
- Pinch of fine sea salt
- 1/3 cup crushed pistachios (for topping)
- Optional: 1–2 tsp toasted sesame seeds for extra halva vibe
Instructions
- Chill a mixing bowl and beaters for 10 minutes for easier whipping.
- Whip the cold heavy cream to soft peaks; set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, tahini, powdered sweetener, alcohol-free vanilla, and a small pinch of salt until completely smooth and fluffy.
- Fold one-third of the whipped cream into the tahini mixture to lighten, then gently fold in the remaining cream until just combined and silky.
- Spoon or pipe the mousse into 6 small cups or jars. Chill 30–60 minutes to set.
- Top with crushed pistachios (and optional toasted sesame seeds) just before serving.
Keto Focus
Grain- and sugar-free with no fillers or starches, this mousse relies on tahini and cream for satisfying fats and minimal carbs. Using a powdered erythritol/monk fruit blend keeps the texture smooth and the net carbs around 4–5g per serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 305
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 30g
- Total Carbs: 6.5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 4.5g
Tips & Variations
- Smoother texture: Always use powdered sweetener; granulated can feel gritty. If using allulose, you may need slightly more to match sweetness.
- Flavor twists: Add 1 tbsp cocoa + a pinch of espresso for mocha halva; or 1/2 tsp rose water and extra pistachios for a Middle Eastern flourish; or lemon zest with a pinch of cardamom for brightness.
- Dairy swaps: For a lighter profile, use mascarpone in place of cream cheese. For dairy-reduced, try coconut cream for part of the whipped cream (texture will be denser).
- Serving ideas: Layer with a few raspberries, sprinkle cacao nibs, or add toasted coconut flakes for crunch while keeping carbs low.
- Sweetness to taste: Start with 1/3 cup sweetener, then adjust after a quick taste before folding in the final cream.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate covered for up to 3–4 days. Best texture after a 30–60 minute chill. Not recommended for freezing (thaws grainy). Top with nuts and seeds just before serving to keep them crisp.
Notes
- Yield: About 6 small cups
- Active time: 5 minutes (plus 30–60 minutes chilling)
- Allergens: Contains sesame, dairy, and tree nuts (pistachios)