There’s something magical about strawberry mousse — it’s light, airy, and bursting with the natural sweetness and vibrant color of fresh strawberries. This delightful dessert is the perfect way to end a meal on a refreshing note, especially during warmer months when strawberries are at their peak.
Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner party, a casual get-together, or just want a simple yet elegant treat, this Strawberry Mousse recipe will not disappoint. It’s easy to make, requires only a few ingredients, and has a velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
What Is Strawberry Mousse?
Mousse is a classic French dessert characterized by its light, airy texture created by folding whipped cream or egg whites into a flavored base. In the case of strawberry mousse, fresh strawberries provide the main flavor and color, making it a naturally sweet and fruity delight.
Unlike heavy cream-based desserts or thick puddings, mousse is all about fluffiness and smoothness. Strawberry mousse is often served chilled in individual glasses, garnished with fresh berries or mint, and can be paired with cookies, cakes, or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This strawberry mousse recipe keeps things simple, using fresh ingredients to highlight the natural flavor of strawberries:
- Fresh strawberries – 1 pound, hulled and chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup (adjust to taste)
- Heavy whipping cream – 1 cup, chilled
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon, to brighten the flavor
- Gelatin powder – 1 teaspoon (or agar-agar for vegetarian option)
- Cold water – 2 tablespoons, to bloom the gelatin
- Vanilla extract – ½ teaspoon (optional, for added depth)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing, hulling, and chopping your fresh strawberries. Reserve a few whole or sliced berries for garnish later. Place the chopped strawberries in a blender or food processor and add the sugar and lemon juice. Blend until smooth to create a luscious strawberry puree.
2. Bloom the Gelatin
Sprinkle the gelatin powder over 2 tablespoons of cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to soften. Then, gently heat the gelatin mixture in a microwave or over a double boiler until fully dissolved, but do not boil.
3. Combine Gelatin and Strawberry Puree
Slowly whisk the dissolved gelatin into the strawberry puree until fully incorporated. This step helps the mousse set nicely when chilled.
4. Whip the Cream
Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the chilled heavy cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat; the cream should be fluffy and smooth.
5. Fold the Mixture
Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry-gelatin mixture using a spatula. Do this carefully to keep the airy texture intact. Add vanilla extract if using.
6. Chill the Mousse
Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or bowls. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or until the mousse is set and firm to the touch.
7. Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish your strawberry mousse with fresh strawberry slices, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Mousse
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and vibrant color. If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen berries can work but drain excess liquid before blending.
- Adjust sweetness according to your taste and the sweetness of your strawberries.
- For extra fluffiness, you can fold in some softly whipped egg whites (pasteurized if preferred).
- Gelatin alternatives: Agar-agar is a great vegetarian substitute; just follow package instructions for blooming and dissolving.
- Presentation: Serve in pretty glasses or jars for a stunning dessert display.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and refreshing: Unlike heavy desserts, strawberry mousse is airy and perfect for a sweet but not overwhelming treat.
- Easy to make: No baking required — just blend, whip, fold, and chill.
- Versatile: Can be made ahead for parties or special occasions.
- Naturally vibrant: The beautiful pink hue comes from real strawberries, making it appealing and wholesome.
- Kid-friendly: Sweet and smooth, it’s a dessert that kids and adults enjoy alike.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Strawberry Mousse: Add melted dark chocolate to the strawberry puree before folding in the cream.
- Strawberry and Basil: Infuse the puree with fresh basil leaves for an herbal twist.
- Vegan Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and agar-agar instead of gelatin.
- Layered Mousse: Alternate layers of strawberry mousse with vanilla or lemon mousse for a colorful parfait.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry mousse is an elegant yet simple dessert that highlights the best qualities of fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, romantic dinners, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something light, delicious, and beautifully pink.
Next time you want a dessert that’s both impressive and effortless, whip up this strawberry mousse and enjoy every spoonful of its creamy, fruity goodness!