Strawberry Mousse Recipe

Strawberry Mousse is an irresistibly light, creamy dessert that captures the fresh, sweet essence of strawberries in every blissful spoonful. This quick and easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping treat that feels fancy enough for special occasions yet is delightfully effortless for any day of the week. With its vibrant pink hue and fluffy texture, every bite of this Strawberry Mousse will have you closing your eyes and savoring the moment. Whether you’re preparing it for a celebration or a cozy night in, this mousse adds pure joy to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dreamy Strawberry Mousse relies on just a handful of everyday ingredients—each chosen for the flavor, color, and texture they provide. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple lineup can turn into something so luscious!

• 8 oz cream cheese or coconut cream: This creates the luxurious, creamy body of the mousse. Cream cheese gives it a subtle tang, while coconut cream makes it totally dairy-free and just as rich.
• 4 oz yogurt or additional cream cheese/coconut cream: Yogurt keeps the mousse light and slightly tart; use more cream cheese or coconut cream for extra decadence and thickness.
• 1 cup powdered sugar or a sugar-free alternative: Powdered sugar dissolves beautifully, sweetening the mousse without any grittiness. Choose a sugar-free version if you want a lighter treat.
• 5 medium strawberries: These provide all the fresh berry flavor and a gorgeous natural pink color—plus a subtle fruity aroma.
• Optional 1/4 tsp vanilla bean paste: Just a hint of vanilla takes the flavors to the next level, adding warmth and depth.

How to Make Strawberry Mousse

Step 1: Prep Your Base

If you’re using cream cheese, let it come fully to room temperature so it blends seamlessly into a smooth, fluffy base. If coconut cream is your pick, check the can—ensure it’s thick and creamy, not hard or separated. The consistency of your mousse depends on a silky foundation, so don’t rush this step!

Step 2: Puree the Strawberries

Remove the stems from your strawberries, then either blend or mash them until perfectly pureed. The goal is a luscious, smooth fruit base with no big bits left. This is where the iconic Strawberry Mousse flavor truly begins—don’t be tempted to skimp!

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Toss the strawberry puree, your softened cream cheese or coconut cream, yogurt (or more cream cheese), powdered sugar, and that optional vanilla bean paste into a food processor, blender, or big mixing bowl. Blend or whip until everything is completely smooth and beautifully pink. That’s it—the hard part is officially over.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Scoop your pink cloud of mousse into serving dishes or glasses—this is where you can get creative! Pop them in the fridge for at least an hour. Chilling lets the Strawberry Mousse thicken up to the perfect, spoonable consistency that will hold its shape yet melt in your mouth.

How to Serve Strawberry Mousse

Garnishes

Garnishing your Strawberry Mousse can make it extra special. Classic touches like a few sliced strawberries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh mint add both beauty and flavor. For an elegant touch, try a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a scattering of edible flowers.

Side Dishes

Serve this mousse alongside buttery shortbread cookies, vanilla wafer crisps, or mini meringues for a fun texture contrast. If you’re feeling decadent, a few chocolate-dipped biscotti or a handful of fresh berries on the side will take your dessert tray to the next level.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond regular cups: layer your Strawberry Mousse in clear parfait glasses with crumbled graham crackers for a deconstructed cheesecake vibe, pipe it into chocolate cups for an edible container, or swirl it into mini tart shells. You can also fill shot glasses for tiny, party-ready bites!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Strawberry Mousse keeps well in the fridge for up to three days when covered tightly. If you’re making it ahead of time, just keep each portion in individual containers so they’re ready to grab for dessert anytime or entertain surprise guests.

Freezing

You can freeze Strawberry Mousse for up to one month, though the texture becomes a little more solid and icy. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and give it a gentle stir to restore its fluffy texture. Freeze in single portions for the easiest serving later.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Strawberry Mousse, as it’s meant to be served chilled! However, if it’s been in the very cold part of your refrigerator or freezer and feels too firm, just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before pureeing. This ensures your Strawberry Mousse won’t turn out watery and preserves that delightful creamy texture.

Is this recipe vegetarian and gluten-free?

Yes! As written, this Strawberry Mousse is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. If you need it dairy-free, use coconut cream and a plant-based yogurt substitute.

Can I make Strawberry Mousse ahead of time for a party?

Definitely—Strawberry Mousse is a make-ahead dream. Prepare it up to two days in advance and keep it chilled. Add any garnishes just before serving for maximum freshness and flair.

What if I don’t have a blender or food processor?

You can easily use a hand mixer to whip everything together. Just mash your strawberries extra well and beat the mixture until silky smooth—your mousse will still turn out lovely with a little extra elbow grease.

How can I make the mousse sugar-free?

Swap in your favorite powdered sugar substitute (such as erythritol or stevia blends) in a 1:1 ratio for a sweet treat that’s kind to your sugar intake. The end result stays every bit as delicious!

Final Thoughts

Treat yourself and loved ones to a batch of Strawberry Mousse—it truly feels like a celebration in a cup! With its breezy prep and unforgettable flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. Go ahead and give it a try; one spoonful and you’ll be hooked!

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