Heavenly Strawberry Mousse Recipe

There’s something magical about strawberries that instantly brightens my day. Growing up, I’d spend lazy summer afternoons picking them from my grandma’s garden, sneaking a few before they made it to the kitchen. Those juicy, ruby-red berries always felt like a treat, and now, turning them into this strawberry mousse feels like capturing that joy in a dessert. This recipe is my absolute favorite because it’s so easy to whip up, yet it looks and tastes like you spent hours perfecting it.

What I love most is how this mousse balances creamy richness with bright, fresh strawberry flavor. It’s airy, not too sweet, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or just craving something special. Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe’s straightforward steps make it a breeze. Let’s get started on creating this dreamy dessert that’s sure to steal the show!

Ingredients for Strawberry Mousse

Here’s what you’ll need to make about 4 servings of this delightful strawberry mousse:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for a tangy kick)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make this mousse? It’s super simple, and I’ll walk you through every step.

1. Puree the Strawberries: Toss the chopped strawberries and sugar into a blender. Blitz until you’ve got a smooth, vibrant puree. If you want it extra smooth, strain it through a fine sieve to remove the seeds. Let it cool a bit.
2. Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes—it’ll look like a weird, spongy blob, but that’s what you want.
3. Dissolve the Gelatin: Gently heat the gelatin mixture in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until it’s completely liquid. Stir it into the strawberry puree and mix well.
4. Whip the Cream: Grab a chilled bowl and whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract using a hand mixer until soft peaks form. If you’re adding Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, fold it in gently now.
5. Combine Mixtures: Slowly fold the strawberry puree into the whipped cream with a spatula. Be gentle to keep it fluffy—no vigorous stirring! Mix until it’s fully blended.
6. Chill the Mousse: Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls. Cover them and pop them in the fridge for at least 2 hours to set.
7. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top with fresh strawberry slices and a sprig of mint for a pop of color. Dive in!

Related Recipes:

Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Pro Cooking Tips

Want to make this mousse like a pro? Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:

• Chill Your Tools: Pop your mixing bowl and whisk in the fridge for 10 minutes before whipping the cream. It helps create fluffier peaks.
• Gelatin Care: Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved, or you’ll end up with lumps. Don’t let it boil, though—it can ruin the texture.
• Taste Test: If your strawberries are on the tart side, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the puree.
• Gentle Folding: When mixing the puree and cream, fold don’t stir. It keeps the mousse light as a cloud.

Variations to Try

This recipe is like a blank canvas—here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Chocolate Strawberry Mousse: Fold in 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate to the puree for a rich, indulgent twist.
• Vegan Mousse: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and agar-agar in place of gelatin.
• Boozy Mousse: Add a splash (1 tablespoon) of champagne or orange liqueur to the puree for a grown-up version.
• Berry Medley Mousse: Swap half the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry vibe.

Storage Suggestions

Got extra mousse? Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Fridge: Store in airtight containers or covered glasses for up to 2 days. It might soften a bit over time.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight, but heads-up, the texture might not be as fluffy.
• Pro Tip: Add garnishes like strawberries or mint right before serving to keep them vibrant.

How to Serve Strawberry Mousse

This mousse is a stunner on its own, but here’s how to make it unforgettable:

• Presentation: Serve in clear dessert glasses or mason jars to show off the gorgeous pink hue.
• Toppings: Add a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed cookies, or a drizzle of white chocolate.
• Pairings: Serve with buttery shortbread or a chilled glass of rosé for a fancy touch.
• Occasions: Perfect for romantic dinners, summer parties, or whenever you need a light, refreshing dessert.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition for one serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Fat: 22g (Saturated: 14g)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (Sugars: 18g)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 25mg

Note: These numbers can shift if you use Greek yogurt or other variations. Use a nutrition calculator for exact details.

FAQs About Strawberry Mousse

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Totally! Just thaw them and drain any extra liquid to avoid a runny mousse.

How long does it take to set?
It needs about 2 hours in the fridge, but letting it sit overnight gives the best texture.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yup! Make it a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge.

Why is my mousse not setting?
Check that your gelatin was fully dissolved and your cream was whipped to soft peaks. Skimping on chilling time can also cause issues.

Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your gelatin and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Conclusion

This strawberry mousse is pure bliss in every spoonful—light, creamy, and bursting with berry goodness. It’s one of those desserts that looks impressive but comes together without breaking a sweat. I love how it brings back memories of summer and makes any moment feel a little more special. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun variation, this mousse is bound to become a favorite. Give it a go, and let me know how it turns out! What’s your go-to strawberry dessert? Drop your thoughts, and happy cooking!