If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, look no further than Strawberry Mousse. This dreamy, airy treat captures the very essence of ripe berries in a cloud-like, melt-in-your-mouth texture—perfect for warm days or whenever you crave something light yet satisfying. With its gorgeous blush of pink and refreshingly tangy-sweet flavor, Strawberry Mousse is a showstopper at dinner parties, picnic tables, or just your own kitchen counter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Gelatin Mixture:
- 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries and mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How to Make Strawberry Mousse
Step 1: Puree the Strawberries
Begin by combining your hulled and halved strawberries with the granulated sugar and lemon juice in a blender or food processor. Blend until everything is super smooth and no lumps remain—a silky puree is what gives your Strawberry Mousse its irresistible texture. For the smoothest mousse possible, you can strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve at this stage, but that’s totally up to your preference.
Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin
Measure out 2 tablespoons of cold water into a small saucepan and evenly sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the top. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes without stirring—this process is known as blooming, and it allows the gelatin to absorb the water and dissolve evenly later on.
Step 3: Dissolve the Gelatin
After blooming, warm the saucepan gently over low heat, stirring constantly until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear. This should only take a minute or two; don’t let it boil! Once dissolved, remove the pan from the heat.
Step 4: Mix Gelatin with Strawberry Puree
Pour the dissolved gelatin mixture into your strawberry puree, and stir well to blend. The gentle warmth of the gelatin will help it mix seamlessly, setting the stage for that light-as-air texture in your finished Strawberry Mousse.
Step 5: Whip the Cream
In a separate large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. You want it billowy and pillowy, but not so stiff that it turns grainy. The whipped cream brings incredible lightness and subtle richness to each bite.
Step 6: Fold and Combine
Carefully fold the strawberry-gelatin mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Take your time—gentle folding keeps the mousse delicate and airy. When no streaks remain and the mousse turns a lovely pale pink, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 7: Fill and Chill
Spoon or pipe the Strawberry Mousse into individual serving glasses, ramekins, or jars. Pop them in the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours (longer is totally fine!). This patience pays off—the mousse needs time to set and achieve its signature airy consistency.
Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy
Just before serving, crown your Strawberry Mousse with fresh slices of strawberry and a few mint leaves if you love that little pop of green. It’s visually stunning and adds a refreshing herbal hint.
How to Serve Strawberry Mousse
Garnishes
The easiest way to elevate Strawberry Mousse is with a shower of fresh strawberry slices and a sprig of mint perched on top. You can even sprinkle a touch of powdered sugar or add a shard of white chocolate for that luxurious finish. These garnishes don’t just look beautiful—they add flavor and texture in every spoonful.
Side Dishes
Strawberry Mousse shines brightest alongside crisp butter cookies, delicate shortbread, or a handful of simple berries. For a brunch treat, pair it with a mini scone or serve next to a cluster of juicy blackberries for a true berry lover’s delight. If you’re making a multi-dessert platter, its lightness makes it the perfect complement to richer cakes or pastries.
Creative Ways to Present
Surprise your guests by layering Strawberry Mousse with crumbled biscuits or ladyfingers in a parfait glass for a playful twist. Serve it in tiny shot glasses as elegant individual bites for parties, or make a strawberry mousse tart by filling pre-baked tart shells with the mousse. You can even swirl in a dollop of whipped cream or berry coulis for a dazzling two-tone effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover leftover Strawberry Mousse tightly with plastic wrap or lids and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed within a day or so while the flavors are most vibrant and the texture remains luxuriously airy.
Freezing
While technically you can freeze Strawberry Mousse, freezing may affect the texture—thawing can potentially cause the mousse to loosen and separate. If you must, freeze it in airtight containers for up to a month, defrost overnight in the refrigerator, and give it a gentle whisk before serving.
Reheating
Strawberry Mousse is meant to be served chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary (or recommended). If you’re looking to bring it closer to room temperature for a softer texture, simply let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before eating.
FAQs
Can I make Strawberry Mousse without gelatin?
Yes! You can swap the gelatin for agar-agar if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just adjust the amount to suit the strength of your agar powder, as it sets more firmly than gelatin.
How do I ensure the mousse stays smooth and lump-free?
Straining the strawberry puree through a fine mesh sieve before mixing with gelatin is key. Also, make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved in its water to avoid any graininess.
Can I use frozen strawberries for Strawberry Mousse?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain the strawberries well before pureeing, as excess water can dilute both flavor and texture. Frozen berries work especially well when fresh aren’t in season.
How long in advance can I make Strawberry Mousse for a party?
You can make it up to a day ahead. Simply assemble and chill, leaving garnishes for just before serving to keep everything looking fresh and vibrant.
Is Strawberry Mousse gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful dessert for nearly any crowd! Just double-check any garnishes or cookies you serve on the side if gluten is a concern.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Mousse brings together simplicity and elegance in every gorgeous, berry-studded bite. If you’ve never tried making mousse before, let this recipe be your invitation—it’s easy, impressive, and guaranteed to make you smile. I can’t wait for you to whip up this treat and experience a little spoonful of strawberry bliss!
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 refreshing Strawberry Mousse. Made with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a hint of lemon, this no-bake dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Gelatin Mixture:
- 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries and mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Puree Strawberries: In a blender, blend strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Prepare Gelatin: In a saucepan, dissolve gelatin in water over low heat. Mix into the strawberry puree.
- Whip Cream: In a bowl, whip cream and sugar until soft peaks form. Fold in the strawberry mixture.
- Chill: Spoon mousse into glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Garnish: Top with strawberries and mint leaves before serving.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, strain the strawberry puree before adding gelatin.
- You can use thawed frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
