If you are searching for a light yet decadently smooth dessert, look no further than this Creamy Strawberry Mousse with Fresh Fruit Garnish Recipe. It perfectly balances the luscious flavor of ripe strawberries with the airy texture of whipped cream, bringing refreshment and elegance to any occasion. With its brilliant pink hue and fresh fruit décor, this mousse feels like a celebration in a glass, brightening up your table and impressing your taste buds with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in creating the mousse’s irresistible charm. From the sweetness of fresh strawberries to the richness of heavy cream, every element contributes to the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped: The star ingredient providing vibrant flavor and natural sweetness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the strawberries for a smooth taste.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Adds a bright note to enhance the berry flavor.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled: Creates the mousse’s signature fluffy and creamy texture.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without any grit.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 tablespoon unflavored gelatin (optional): Provides extra stability to help your mousse set perfectly when needed.
- 2 tablespoons water (if using gelatin): Helps dissolve the gelatin smoothly.
How to Make Creamy Strawberry Mousse with Fresh Fruit Garnish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
Begin by blending the fresh strawberries until smooth, then strain the puree carefully to remove pesky seeds for a silky finish. Cook this mixture with sugar and lemon juice just long enough to slightly thicken it, which intensifies the strawberry flavor and creates a lovely base for the mousse. Allow this puree to cool completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Optional Gelatin Stabilizer
If you want a mousse that holds its shape a bit firmer, sprinkle the gelatin over water to let it bloom, then gently warm it until fully dissolved. Stir this mixture into the cooled strawberry puree to give your dessert an elegant, stable texture without sacrificing creaminess.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Using chilled heavy cream, beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you achieve stiff peaks. This step is crucial because the light, airy cream forms the mousse’s delightful structure, balancing the fruitiness with rich smoothness.
Step 4: Combine the Mousse
Gently fold the cooled strawberry puree into the whipped cream with care to keep the airy texture intact. This delicate mixing ensures that the mousse remains fluffy while fully blending those fresh strawberry flavors throughout.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Divide the luscious mousse into pretty glasses or bowls, cover them, and refrigerate for at least two hours until set. When ready, top with fresh strawberry slices and perhaps a little extra whipped cream for a picture-perfect finish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
How to Serve Creamy Strawberry Mousse with Fresh Fruit Garnish Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is key for serving this dessert. Brighten your mousse with juicy strawberry slices, whole berries, or even a sprig of mint for a pop of green. These colorful accents elevate the dish’s presentation and add an inviting burst of fresh flavor to every bite.
Side Dishes
This strawberry mousse pairs beautifully with simple biscuits, buttery shortbread, or a crunchy granola crumble on the side. These textures add contrast to the creamy softness, making each spoonful more interesting and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the mousse in tall parfait glasses with fresh fruit or mixing in small chunks of strawberries for bursts of flavor. You can also serve it in elegant mini jars topped with edible flowers or dusted with powdered sugar for a festive touch that wows guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover mousse covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to two days to maintain its creamy texture and fresh taste. Stir gently before serving if any liquid separation occurs, as this sometimes happens naturally.
Freezing
You can freeze the mousse in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight and expect a slight change in texture; while still delicious, it may be less airy compared to freshly made.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating. Instead, allow frozen mousse to thaw gently in the fridge to preserve its flavor and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for that vibrant flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw and drain them well before blending to avoid excess moisture which could affect the mousse consistency.
Is the gelatin necessary?
The gelatin is optional but recommended if you prefer a firmer mousse that holds its shape longer, especially in warmer environments. Without gelatin, the mousse remains creamy but softer and more delicate.
How long does it take to set?
The mousse generally needs at least two hours in the refrigerator to set properly. For a firmer texture, consider chilling it longer or using gelatin as described in the recipe.
Can I substitute the heavy whipping cream?
Heavy whipping cream is essential for that rich and airy texture, but if you want a lighter version, you could try whipped coconut cream. Just note the flavor and texture will differ somewhat.
What’s the best way to fold the puree into the cream?
Use a gentle folding motion with a spatula, cutting through the middle and bringing the mixture from the bottom to the top. This keeps the air trapped in the whipped cream, making the mousse light and fluffy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Strawberry Mousse with Fresh Fruit Garnish Recipe is truly a joy to make and share. Its fresh, fruity brightness combined with luscious creaminess makes it an unforgettable treat that’s perfect anytime you want a touch of sweetness without feeling heavy. I hope you’ll dive into making this delightful dessert soon and create moments of happiness around your table.
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Creamy Strawberry Mousse with Fresh Fruit Garnish Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This light and airy Strawberry Mousse combines fresh strawberries with whipped cream and a hint of vanilla, resulting in a smooth, creamy dessert perfect for any occasion. The mousse is gently folded and chilled to set, creating a refreshing and elegant treat that highlights the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of strawberries.
Ingredients
Strawberry Puree
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gelatin (Optional)
- 1/2 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the 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 it into a saucepan. Add granulated sugar and lemon juice, and cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Optional Gelatin Stabilizer: If you choose to use gelatin for added stability, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let it bloom for 5 minutes, then microwave for 10 seconds to dissolve completely. Stir the dissolved gelatin into the cooled strawberry puree until well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This creates a light and airy base for the mousse.
- Combine the Mousse: Gently fold the cooled strawberry puree into the whipped cream, taking care not to deflate the mixture. Continue folding until fully incorporated, resulting in a smooth, consistent mousse.
- Chill and Serve: Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or bowls. Cover them and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set and develop flavor. Before serving, garnish with additional fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Using gelatin is optional but helps to stabilize the mousse for a firmer texture.
- Make sure the whipping cream is well chilled before whipping for best results.
- Straining the strawberry puree removes seeds and results in a smoother texture.
- The mousse can be prepared a day ahead to save time and enhance flavors.
