If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a fluffy cloud of fresh summer sweetness, you’ve got to try this Creamy Strawberry Mousse Recipe. It’s a luscious blend of fresh strawberries and whipped cream that is both light and decadently smooth, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. This mousse strikes the perfect balance of tangy berry flavor and velvety texture, whether you’re serving it for a casual get-together or a special celebration. It’s an all-time favorite for strawberry lovers who want a dessert that’s quick to make but feels elegantly impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding sweetness, richness, or that irresistibly smooth texture. You don’t need a long list; just a few fresh and essential items create this dreamy strawberry delight.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped: Choose ripe, vibrant strawberries for the best natural sweetness and color.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tartness of the berries.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and enhances the fresh strawberry taste.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled: Gives the mousse its iconic creamy and airy texture.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream gently without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the mousse’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 tablespoon unflavored gelatin (optional): Offers extra stability for a firmer mousse, perfect if you want neat servings.
- 2 tablespoons water: Used to bloom the gelatin evenly if you choose to include it.
How to Make Creamy Strawberry Mousse Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
Start by blending those gorgeous fresh strawberries until they’re silky smooth. Straining the puree through a fine mesh sieve removes the seeds, giving you that perfect, velvety texture we’re aiming for. Then, gently cook the puree with sugar and lemon juice. This short cooking step softens the berries just enough to concentrate their flavor without losing that fresh brightness, making every spoonful taste like a burst of summer.
Step 2: Bloom and Dissolve the Gelatin
If you want a mousse that holds its shape beautifully, gelatin is your friend. Sprinkle it over water and let it bloom for five minutes—this process allows the gelatin to absorb moisture and soften. A quick zap in the microwave dissolves it into a smooth liquid. Stir this into the cooled strawberry puree so the mousse has that lovely, slightly firmer texture without any gelatin taste.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Next up, the whipping cream. Chilled cream whips up faster and holds air better, so keep it cold for the fluffiest results. Beat it with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you see stiff peaks—that means your cream is holding firm but still luxurious and airy, ready to blend with the strawberry delight.
Step 4: Fold the Strawberry Puree into the Cream
Now comes the delicate part: folding. Gently combine the strawberry puree with your whipped cream using a spatula, carefully folding to keep all the air you just whipped in. This step ensures the mousse stays light and fluffy while achieving that perfect pink color and dreamy consistency.
Step 5: Chill and Set the Mousse
Spoon the mousse into individual glasses or bowls, cover, and refrigerate for at least two hours. This chilling step lets the flavors mingle and allows the mousse to set just right, so each serving feels elegant and luscious. Right before serving, top with extra fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for a picture-perfect finish.
How to Serve Creamy Strawberry Mousse Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates the look and taste of your mousse like the right garnish. Fresh sliced strawberries add pop and freshness, while a sprig of mint can give a refreshing herbal note and a beautiful color contrast. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of white chocolate or sprinkling of toasted almonds add texture and a hint of richness that pairs gorgeously with the light mousse.
Side Dishes
While this mousse shines wonderfully on its own, pairing it with light, complementary bites can create an unforgettable dessert experience. Crisp shortbread cookies or buttery sable biscuits complement the creamy mousse’s softness. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also makes a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures, a perfect way to impress your guests.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is everything, and this Creamy Strawberry Mousse Recipe adapts easily to all kinds of creative plating. Try layering it with crushed cookies and fresh berries in a parfait glass for a visually stunning treat. Alternatively, pipe the mousse into fancy molds and unmold for elegant individual portions. For a whimsical touch, serve it in hollowed-out strawberry shells or petite chocolate cups—guaranteed to wow everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover mousse keeps beautifully in the fridge, covered tightly, for up to two days. Make sure the container is airtight to preserve the mousse’s fresh flavor and fluffy texture. Give it a gentle stir before serving if you notice any slight separation.
Freezing
Freezing mousse is possible, though it can slightly affect the texture once thawed. If you want to freeze it, transfer to a freezer-safe container with a tight lid and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently whip the mousse before serving to restore some of its original lightness.
Reheating
This mousse is best served chilled and is not intended for reheating. Warming it will cause it to lose its airy texture, so keep it in the fridge until ready to enjoy for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I make the mousse without gelatin?
Absolutely! The gelatin is optional and mainly used for extra stability. If you want a lighter, softer mousse, simply skip the gelatin and enjoy it fresh. Just be sure to serve it within a couple of hours to maintain the best texture.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries will work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before blending to avoid watering down your mousse.
Is there a dairy-free version of this mousse?
You can make a dairy-free alternative using coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It whips up nicely and pairs well with strawberries, giving you that creamy texture without dairy.
How long does it take to set in the fridge?
For the best texture, refrigerate the mousse for at least two hours. This chilling time allows it to firm up and the flavors to meld perfectly.
Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, this recipe scales up beautifully. Just be sure to whip the cream and fold the ingredients in batches if needed to keep the mousse light and fluffy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Creamy Strawberry Mousse Recipe that feels like a hug in dessert form. It combines freshness, elegance, and ease into one irresistible treat you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re new to mousse or a seasoned dessert lover, give this recipe a try—you’ll absolutely adore the lightness and flavor it brings to your table.
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Creamy Strawberry Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This light and airy Strawberry Mousse combines fresh strawberries with whipped cream to create a creamy, luscious dessert perfect for any occasion. Featuring a subtle tang from lemon juice and optional gelatin for stability, this mousse is both elegant and refreshing, ideal for serving chilled with a garnish of fresh strawberries.
Ingredients
Strawberry Puree
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Mousse
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 tablespoon unflavored gelatin (optional, for added stability)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using gelatin)
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberry Puree: Blend the fresh strawberries in a food processor until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds, then transfer to a saucepan. Add granulated sugar and lemon juice, and cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Dissolve Gelatin (Optional): If using gelatin, sprinkle it over 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let it bloom for 5 minutes, then microwave for 10 seconds to fully dissolve the gelatin. Stir the dissolved gelatin into the cooled strawberry puree until completely incorporated.
- Whip Cream: Beat the chilled heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the cooled strawberry puree into the whipped cream, mixing carefully to incorporate without deflating the airiness of the whipped cream.
- Chill and Serve: Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or bowls. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set properly. Before serving, garnish with fresh strawberries and additional whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- For a firmer mousse, using gelatin is recommended but optional.
- Strain the strawberry puree carefully to avoid seeds, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Use chilled cream for best whipping results.
- Serve chilled and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
