Strawberry Mousse is a delicate, airy dessert that celebrates the sweet, tangy flavor of fresh strawberries. This easy-to-make treat combines whipped cream and a strawberry puree for a light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. Whether served in elegant glasses for a dinner party or simply enjoyed as a weeknight treat, this mousse is sure to impress with its vibrant color and refreshing taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin
- 2 tbsp cold water
Preparation
1. Prepare the Strawberry Puree:
- Place the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a small saucepan and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Bloom the Gelatin:
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
- Gently heat the bloomed gelatin in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until fully dissolved. Let it cool slightly.
3. Combine the Gelatin and Strawberry Mixture:
- Stir the dissolved gelatin into the cooled strawberry puree until well combined. Set aside.
4. Whip the Cream:
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
- Reserve about 1/4 cup of the whipped cream for garnish, if desired.
5. Fold the Mousse:
- Gently fold the strawberry mixture into the whipped cream in batches. Use a spatula to combine, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Once fully mixed, the mousse should be smooth and light.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Garnish with reserved whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, or mint leaves before serving.
Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Mousse: Swirl melted dark chocolate into the mousse for a rich chocolate-strawberry twist.
- Strawberry-Lime Mousse: Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a zesty flavor.
- Layered Dessert: Layer the mousse with crushed cookies, sponge cake, or strawberry compote for added texture.
Cooking Notes
- Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can be substituted but should be thawed and drained first.
- Chill all ingredients and equipment for optimal whipping results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Strawberry Mousse in individual glasses for an elegant presentation. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light, fruity cocktail for a perfect finish to a summer meal.
Tips
- For an extra smooth texture, strain the strawberry puree to remove seeds before combining with the gelatin.
- Use a piping bag to neatly fill serving glasses for a polished look.
- Make ahead! The mousse can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 20mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this mousse without gelatin?
Yes, you can substitute the gelatin with agar-agar or skip it entirely for a softer mousse that won’t fully set.
2. Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with raspberries, mangoes, or peaches.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store the mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Mousse recipe is an effortless way to elevate your dessert game. Its creamy texture, vibrant color, and fresh flavor make it an instant favorite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this mousse is a delightful option that captures the essence of Strawberry Mousse in every bite.