If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that feels like a cloud of fresh, fruity bliss, you’re in for a treat with this Strawberry Mousse Recipe. It’s delightfully light, creamy, and bursting with the natural sweetness of strawberries, making it perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without fuss. Whether you’re craving a refreshing summer dessert or a lovely treat anytime, this mousse delivers a luscious texture and vibrant flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Strawberry Mousse Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of creamy and fruity, ensuring the mousse is silky, flavorful, and beautifully colored.
- 8 oz cream cheese (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option): Provides a rich, smooth base that makes the mousse velvety and decadent.
- 4 oz yogurt (or additional cream cheese or coconut cream): Adds a subtle tang and lightness that balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (or a sugar-free alternative): Sweetens the mousse evenly without any graininess.
- 5 medium-sized strawberries (optional, but recommended for flavor): Gives a fresh strawberry punch and vibrant color.
- 1/4 tsp vanilla bean paste: Infuses the mousse with a warm, aromatic depth that heightens the overall flavor.
How to Make Strawberry Mousse Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by giving your strawberries a good wash and hull them carefully. Cut them into smaller pieces to make blending easier and to ensure you get a smooth strawberry puree that combines perfectly with the creamy base.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese (or coconut cream if going dairy-free) together with the yogurt (or an alternative) until the mixture is flawlessly smooth and creamy. This is the foundation of your mousse, so take your time to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Sweeten the Mousse
Slowly add your powdered sugar or sugar-free option while continuing to beat the mixture. This gradual incorporation helps the sugar dissolve completely, ensuring an even sweetness throughout.
Step 4: Add the Vanilla
Stir in the vanilla bean paste. This little touch of natural vanilla flavor adds an irresistible richness that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Step 5: Blend the Strawberries
Use a blender or food processor to puree the strawberries until perfectly smooth. If you prefer a little texture, pulse briefly to leave tiny bits of fruit in the mix, which adds a lovely dimension to each spoonful.
Step 6: Combine and Chill
Gently fold the strawberry puree into the creamy base, making sure the colors and flavors meld together without overmixing. Then, cover your bowl and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the mousse firm up and the flavors marry.
Step 7: Serve
Once your mousse has set to that perfect light yet firm consistency, it’s ready to be enjoyed. Scoop into individual bowls or pretty glasses to showcase that gorgeous pink color.
How to Serve Strawberry Mousse Recipe
Garnishes
Top your mousse with fresh strawberry slices or a dollop of whipped cream for extra elegance. A sprinkle of grated white chocolate or a few fresh mint leaves can also turn it into a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
Side Dishes
This mousse pairs wonderfully with delicate shortbread cookies or crunchy almond biscotti. The crisp textures complement the creamy mousse perfectly and bring a satisfying contrast to every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the mousse with crushed graham crackers and strawberry compote in clear glasses for a visually stunning parfait. Or pipe the mousse into mini tart shells for bite-sized treats that look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover mousse in an airtight container and keep refrigerated. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 2 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert for busy days or unexpected guests.
Freezing
Although freezing mousse can alter its texture, you can freeze it in individual portions for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving to help restore its creamy consistency.
Reheating
Since mousse is best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge or give it a few minutes at room temperature for the flavors to become more pronounced.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well too, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before blending to avoid a watery mousse.
Is there a vegan alternative for this Strawberry Mousse Recipe?
Yes, swapping cream cheese for coconut cream and using plant-based yogurt creates a delightful vegan version that still has that creamy, luscious texture.
How long does the mousse need to chill?
At least 2 hours in the fridge is necessary for the mousse to set properly, but leaving it overnight can deepen the flavors and improve the texture even more.
Can I substitute powdered sugar with honey or maple syrup?
You can, but because honey and maple syrup are liquid sweeteners, it may slightly affect the mousse’s texture. Adjust the amount carefully and mix well to maintain creaminess.
What if I don’t have vanilla bean paste?
No worries! Vanilla extract works as a fine substitute. Use about half the amount since vanilla bean paste tends to be more concentrated.
Final Thoughts
Making this Strawberry Mousse Recipe is like treating yourself to a little bit of happiness in every bite. Its simplicity and fresh flavors make it a standout dessert that anyone can master. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and share the joy of this sweet, airy delight with your loved ones—it’s truly worth every spoonful!
Print
Strawberry Mousse Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Mousse is a light, creamy dessert that combines the tanginess of cream cheese and yogurt with the fresh, natural sweetness of strawberries. It’s an easy no-cook recipe that requires simple ingredients and chilling time to deliver a luscious, airy texture perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- 4 oz yogurt (or additional cream cheese or coconut cream)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (or a sugar-free alternative)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla bean paste
Strawberries
- 5 medium-sized strawberries (optional, but recommended for flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: If using strawberries, wash and hull them. Cut them into small pieces for easier blending.
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese (or coconut cream) and yogurt (or additional cream cheese) together until smooth and creamy.
- Sweeten the mousse: Gradually add the powdered sugar (or sugar-free alternative) to the mixture, beating until fully combined.
- Add the vanilla: Stir in the vanilla bean paste for added flavor.
- Blend the strawberries: In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries until smooth. For a chunkier texture, pulse to leave small bits of strawberry.
- Combine and chill: Gently fold the pureed strawberries into the cream mixture until fully incorporated.
- Chill: Refrigerate the mousse for at least 2 hours or until it firms up and sets.
- Serve: Once chilled, serve in individual bowls or glasses, garnished with extra strawberries or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of cream cheese and yogurt.
- Adjust sweetness by using powdered sugar or a sugar-free alternative as preferred.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen, just thaw and drain excess juice before blending.
- Chilling time is crucial to achieve the mousse’s texture, so do not skip the refrigeration step.
- Garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream to enhance presentation and flavor.
