If you’re in search of a dreamy, cloud-like dessert that’s bursting with real fruit flavor, look no further than this irresistible Strawberry Mousse. Every spoonful is sweet, creamy, and oh-so-refreshing—a treat that feels both decadent and light! This no-bake favorite spotlights the vibrant color and juicy taste of fresh strawberries, swirled together with airy whipped cream for a dessert that feels just as perfect for date night as it does for a festive summer gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Strawberry Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Gelatin Mixture:
- 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Strawberry Mousse
Step 1: Cook and Purée the Strawberries
Start by combining your chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat. As the mixture cooks, the strawberries will break down, turning soft and syrupy. Stir occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes—you’re looking for the berries to release their juices and almost melt into the sugar. Once softened, remove the pan from the heat and blend the mixture until gorgeously smooth. Let it cool slightly before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Bloom and Melt the Gelatin
Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly over the cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes; you’ll notice it becoming thick and jiggly—that’s perfect! Next, pop the gelatin mixture into the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds until it turns completely clear and runny. Stir this right into your slightly cooled strawberry purée so everything sets up beautifully later.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Grab a large mixing bowl and pour in the heavy whipping cream along with the vanilla extract. Whip on medium-high speed until you get soft peaks—they should be tall but still just a little droopy when you lift the beaters. This is what gives Strawberry Mousse its signature light and fluffy texture!
Step 4: Fold Everything Together
Now for the magic—gently fold the strawberry purée into your whipped cream using a spatula. Work slowly, scooping from the bottom and folding over the top until everything is a uniform, dreamy pink. Be gentle here to keep all that precious air in the mousse!
Step 5: Spoon and Chill
Spoon the mousse into serving cups, ramekins, or whatever elegant dish you have in mind. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or until fully set and ready to serve. The mousse firms up just enough to hold its shape, while still feeling soft and cloud-light on your tongue.
How to Serve Strawberry Mousse
Garnishes
Turn your Strawberry Mousse into a showstopper with simple yet stunning garnishes. A few slices of fresh strawberries on top make it irresistible, while a mint sprig introduces a pop of color and freshness. For an extra flourish, a light dusting of powdered sugar or some white chocolate curls add sweet contrast.
Side Dishes
Although this mousse shines on its own, you can pair it with crisp butter cookies, ladyfingers, or even a thin almond tuile for the perfect crunchy sidekick. A soft sponge cake works beautifully as an alternative, transforming your mousse into an elegant plated dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Dare to be playful! Layer Strawberry Mousse in small mason jars or clear glasses for parfaits with whipped cream and fresh berries. For brunches or parties, pipe it into chocolate cups or hollowed strawberries. If you’re hosting, a big trifle bowl will make the mousse the star of your dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any Strawberry Mousse leftovers covered tightly in the fridge. It keeps its lovely texture for up to three days, so you can snack on spoonfuls whenever a sweet craving strikes!
Freezing
While freezing isn’t recommended for delicate mousses, you can technically freeze Strawberry Mousse for up to a month—just know the texture may become a bit grainy as it thaws. For best results, store in airtight containers, and let thaw gently in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
No reheating needed! Strawberry Mousse is best served chilled straight from the fridge. If it’s been frozen, give it extra time in the fridge to fully defrost for the dreamiest consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh strawberries aren’t in season, frozen berries work very well. Just thaw and drain them before cooking so your mousse doesn’t get watery.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to gelatin?
Yes, you can substitute powdered agar-agar for a vegetarian version. Follow the package instructions, as agar sets a bit more firmly and needs to be dissolved while boiling.
Can I make Strawberry Mousse in advance for a party?
Definitely—Strawberry Mousse is a fantastic make-ahead dessert since it actually improves in flavor and sets perfectly after a few hours in the fridge. Prepare the night before and garnish just before serving!
How can I make my mousse even lighter?
Swap out the heavy cream for a lower-fat whipped topping, or fold in a bit of Greek yogurt for a tangy lift. The result will be a mousse with less fat but still plenty of fluffy deliciousness.
What if I don’t have a blender?
You can use a food processor or even a potato masher in a pinch, although the mousse may be a bit more rustic in texture. Straining the purée through a sieve will help smooth it out.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Mousse is pure joy in a cup—whether you’re making it for friends, family, or simply treating yourself. Give it a try the next time you need a make-ahead dessert that feels equal parts elegant and effortless. I promise, one bite and you’ll fall in love!
Print
Strawberry Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the light and airy delight of this easy-to-make Strawberry Mousse, a perfect dessert for any occasion. This creamy mousse is bursting with the fresh flavor of strawberries and is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Strawberry Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Gelatin Mixture:
- 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberry Mixture: In a saucepan, cook strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice until soft. Blend until smooth.
- Prepare Gelatin Mixture: Dissolve gelatin in water, then mix into strawberry puree.
- Whip Cream: Beat cream and vanilla until soft peaks form. Fold in strawberry mixture.
- Chill: Spoon mousse into cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Serve: Enjoy chilled!
Notes
- Consider using whipped topping for a lighter version.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries or mint leaves.
- Layer in parfaits or trifles for a different presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
