This easy strawberry mousse is a light and fluffy treat, perfect for warm summer days. With fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a hint of sugar, it’s simply delightful!
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just blend the strawberries, fold in the cream, and chill—summer desserts can’t get any easier than this! 
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them beforehand and blend. I find the fresh ones give a better texture and taste though!
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness. You can swap it for honey or agave syrup if you prefer a natural sweetener. Just adjust the quantity to taste, as these alternatives can be sweeter.
Lemon Juice: This brightens the flavor, but if you don’t have it, vinegar can work in a pinch! Use a little less vinegar to avoid overpowering the mousse.
Heavy Whipping Cream: The whipped cream gives the mousse its light, airy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use whipped coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative.
Vanilla Extract: This is optional but adds depth. If you’re out of vanilla, a hint of almond extract can also be delicious!
How Do You Get Perfectly Fluffy Mousse?
The secret to fluffy mousse lies in whipping the cream correctly. Start with cold cream – it whips better! Here’s how:
- Use a chilled bowl and beaters; this helps the cream whip faster.
- Whip on medium speed until you see soft peaks. This means the cream holds its shape without being too stiff.
- Gently fold in the strawberry puree. This prevents your mousse from becoming too dense. Carefully mix until you see no streaks, but don’t overmix!
Chill the mousse for a couple of hours to let it set nicely. Enjoy your refreshing treat!
Easy Strawberry Mousse Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mousse:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious strawberry mousse takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can whip it up, let it set, and enjoy it later—perfect for summer gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberry Purée:
Start by placing the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor. Blend everything until smooth. If you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to strain the puree to remove any seeds. Set the puree aside.
2. Whip the Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, take the cold heavy whipping cream and use an electric mixer to whip it until soft peaks start to form. This means the cream should be fluffy, but still have a gentle texture. Avoid over-whipping, as you want it airy!
3. Combine Strawberry Purée with Whipped Cream:
Next, gently fold the strawberry puree into the whipped cream. If you decided to use vanilla extract, add it here. Use a spatula and fold carefully until the two mixtures are combined and smooth. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can deflate the mousse.
4. Portion the Mousse:
Now it’s time to spoon the luscious mousse mixture into serving cups or ramekins. Try to fill them evenly, leaving some space at the top for a nice garnish later.
5. Chill the Mousse:
Cover the cups with plastic wrap or a lid and place them in the refrigerator. Let the mousse chill for at least 2 hours, or until it’s set and cool. This chilling step is essential for that lovely mousse texture!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before you dive in, take a few fresh strawberry slices and place them on top of each mousse cup for a beautiful garnish. It adds that extra touch for presentation. Now, you’re ready to serve!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the mousse chilled and let everyone enjoy this light, refreshing strawberry dessert. Perfect for summer gatherings or just a sweet treat on a hot day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. Blend them until smooth, and you can follow the recipe as usual!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Mousse?
Leftover mousse can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again to refresh its texture if needed!
Can I Replace Heavy Whipping Cream with a Lighter Alternative?
Absolutely! You can use whipped coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping for a lighter version. Just make sure those alternatives are also kept cold for the best results.
Can I Make This Mousse Ahead of Time?
Yes, this mousse is great for make-ahead desserts! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just wait to garnish until shortly before serving to keep it fresh!
