If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a gentle hug on a warm day, let me introduce you to the ultimate refreshment: Strawberry Mousse – A Sweet and Light Summer Dessert Recipe. This dreamy, fluffy treat captures the vibrant essence of fresh strawberries while delivering a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfectly balanced between sweetness and tang. It’s easy to whip up, looks beautiful on any table, and is sure to become your go-to summer indulgence with just the right amount of elegance and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients make the biggest impact. Each one plays a crucial role, whether adding naturally sweet strawberry flavor, creamy richness, or that delicate lightness that makes mousse such a joy.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries: The star ingredient, providing vibrant color and juicy sweetness; fresh is best, but frozen works too if thawed properly.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness without graininess; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks, this is what gives the mousse its ethereal, airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle flavor enhancer that rounds out the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or cream cheese: Contributes a lovely tang and creamy body, balancing the sweetness with freshness.
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin (optional): Perfect for those who want a firmer mousse that holds its shape longer.
- Whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, chocolate shavings or mint leaves: For garnish, adding an extra layer of indulgence and visual appeal.
How to Make Strawberry Mousse – A Sweet and Light Summer Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
Start by hulling and chopping your fresh strawberries or properly thaw your frozen ones. Puree them in a blender or food processor until silky smooth. This puree is the flavor foundation of your mousse, so ensure it’s nice and luscious with no large chunks.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds a gentle peak but still flexes slightly. This light cream is key to giving the mousse its airy, cloud-like texture. Take care not to overwhip, or it will become grainy.
Step 3: Combine the Strawberry Mixture
In a large bowl, mix the strawberry puree, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar dissolves fully. Then stir in the Greek yogurt or cream cheese, blending thoroughly for a smooth, creamy base that balances sweetness with just a hint of tang.
Step 4: Add Gelatin for Stability (Optional)
If you’d like your mousse to hold a firmer structure, dissolve 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin in 2 tablespoons of warm water, then stir it gently into your strawberry mixture. This step is optional but recommended if you want to serve the mousse in decorative molds or transport it.
Step 5: Fold in the Whipped Cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture using a spatula. This folding technique preserves all the air you just whipped into the cream, giving the mousse its signature lightness and softness. Take your time here to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 6: Chill for Perfection
Divide your mousse into serving dishes or glasses, then refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time lets the flavors meld and the texture set perfectly—giving you that irresistible, fluffy mouthfeel.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, add a final flourish: a dollop of whipped cream, a few fresh strawberry slices, and if you’re feeling fancy, some chocolate shavings or mint leaves. Your beautiful Strawberry Mousse – A Sweet and Light Summer Dessert Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Strawberry Mousse – A Sweet and Light Summer Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate this mousse from simple to stunning. Whipped cream adds softness, while strawberry slices bring vibrancy and freshness. A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings introduces a hint of richness, and fresh mint leaves add an aromatic brightness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments. Think almond biscotti or crisp shortbread cookies that offer a delightful crunch alongside each airy spoonful. For a fresh twist, serve with a bowl of mixed summer berries to amplify the fruity theme.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this mousse in pretty glass jars, delicate coupe glasses, or even edible chocolate cups for an unforgettable presentation. Layer it with crushed graham crackers or a berry compote for a parfait effect. No matter how you plate it, this recipe shines with its vibrant color and velvety texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, cover the mousse with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh to savor that perfect light texture.
Freezing
This mousse isn’t the best candidate for freezing due to its delicate whipped texture; freezing might cause separation or ice crystals that alter the smoothness. Enjoy it within a couple of days instead for the best flavor and consistency.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary or recommended for this dessert since it’s meant to be served chilled. Just take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving if you want it to soften slightly for a creamier bite.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess moisture before pureeing, so your mousse doesn’t become watery.
Is gelatin necessary for the mousse?
Gelatin is optional. It helps the mousse hold its shape better, especially if you want to serve it in molds or transport it, but it still tastes wonderful without it.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt with cream cheese?
Yes, both work well. Greek yogurt offers a lighter tang, while cream cheese gives the mousse a richer, creamier body. Choose based on your preference.
How long should I chill the mousse before serving?
For the best texture, refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, but overnight chilling really allows the flavors to blend and the mousse to firm up beautifully.
What other fruits can I try this mousse with?
Other soft berries like raspberries or blackberries make fantastic alternatives. You can also experiment with mango or peach puree for a tropical twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dessert that’s both effortlessly elegant and irresistibly delicious, and this Strawberry Mousse – A Sweet and Light Summer Dessert Recipe fits perfectly into that sweet spot. It’s a recipe that brings joy with every spoonful and makes summer moments even sweeter. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again!
Print
Strawberry Mousse – A Sweet and Light Summer Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Mousse is a delightfully sweet and light summer dessert that combines fresh strawberries with creamy Greek yogurt and whipped cream. This mousse is smooth, airy, and perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and optional gelatin for a firmer texture. Ideal for warm days, it’s a refreshing treat garnished with whipped cream, fresh berries, and optional chocolate or mint.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped (or thawed frozen strawberries)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (adjust for sweetness)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for a rich, creamy texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or cream cheese (for tanginess and creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin (optional, for firmer mousse)
For Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberry slices or berries
- Chocolate shavings or mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Hull and chop the strawberries, then puree them in a blender or food processor until smooth. If using frozen strawberries, thaw them first, drain any excess moisture, and then puree.
- Whip Cream: Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip to maintain a light texture.
- Mix Strawberry Base: In a large bowl, combine the strawberry puree with powdered sugar and vanilla extract, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Then add the Greek yogurt or cream cheese and mix until smooth.
- Dissolve Gelatin (Optional): Dissolve the unflavored gelatin in 2 tablespoons of warm water, stirring to fully dissolve. Incorporate this gently into the strawberry mixture to achieve a firmer mousse texture.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture using a spatula. Folding gently preserves the mousse’s airy and light consistency.
- Chill: Spoon the mousse into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or overnight for the best set and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with additional whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, and optionally, chocolate shavings or mint leaves. Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute heavy cream and gelatin with coconut cream and agar-agar, respectively.
- Adjust powdered sugar based on the sweetness of your strawberries and personal preference.
- If you prefer a firmer mousse without gelatin, increase chilling time and use cream cheese instead of Greek yogurt.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator to save time.
- Ensure heavy cream is well chilled before whipping for best results.
