Drain the cottage cheese (optional but helpful): If your cottage cheese looks watery, spoon it into a fine-mesh sieve and let it drain for 5–10 minutes. This gives a thicker, silkier mousse.
Add base ingredients to the blender: Combine cottage cheese, cocoa powder, sweetener, vanilla, and salt. If using, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk to help the blades catch.
Blend until completely smooth: Start low, then increase to high for 60–90 seconds.
Scrape down the sides and blend again. You’re looking for a glossy, pudding-like texture with no visible curds.
Optional: Fold in melted chocolate: For a richer flavor, blend in 2–3 tablespoons of melted dark chocolate (let it cool slightly first). This deepens the color and adds a truffle-like finish.
Taste and adjust: Add more sweetener if you like, or another pinch of salt to sharpen the chocolate.
If it’s too thick, blend in a splash of milk; if too loose, chill longer.
Chill briefly: Spoon into serving cups and chill for 20–30 minutes. It will thicken as it rests, but you can also serve it right away if you prefer a softer mousse.
Garnish and serve: Top with berries, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cacao nibs. Serve cold.