Strawberry Mousse

Strawberry Mousse is a light, fluffy, and elegant dessert that’s bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. With its creamy texture and natural sweetness, it’s the kind of treat I love serving when I want something that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for spring and summer, but honestly, I’ll find any excuse to make it year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, refreshing, and completely irresistible. The fresh strawberries bring bright, fruity flavor, and the whipped cream makes it incredibly airy and smooth. It’s naturally gluten-free, looks beautiful in a glass, and makes a great make-ahead dessert for dinner parties, holidays, or date nights at home.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
granulated sugar
lemon juice
unflavored gelatin (or agar-agar for a vegetarian option)
cold water
heavy whipping cream
vanilla extract
optional: extra strawberries or mint for garnish

directions

1. I place the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until the strawberries break down and become syrupy—about 8–10 minutes.

2. I blend the cooked strawberries until smooth, then let the mixture cool slightly.

3. In a small bowl, I sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. I then warm it gently until dissolved and stir it into the cooled strawberry puree.

4. In a large mixing bowl, I whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

5. I fold the strawberry mixture into the whipped cream gently, taking care not to deflate it.

6. I spoon the mousse into serving glasses or ramekins and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.

7. Before serving, I top with fresh strawberry slices or a sprig of mint if I want to dress it up.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4–6 servings. Prep time is 15 minutes, cook time is 10 minutes, and chill time is at least 2 hours.

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of strawberry liqueur to the puree for a grown-up twist. I’ve also layered the mousse with crushed graham crackers or vanilla sponge for a parfait-style dessert. When I want a dairy-free version, I use coconut cream and agar-agar instead of gelatin.

storage/reheating

I store the mousse covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled and doesn’t need reheating. I avoid freezing it, as the texture can change once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, I’ve used frozen strawberries when fresh aren’t in season. I just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before cooking.

Is gelatin necessary?

Gelatin helps the mousse hold its shape. If I want a vegetarian version, I substitute it with agar-agar following the package instructions.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make it the night before and chill it overnight. It holds up beautifully for serving the next day.

How can I make it sweeter or less sweet?

I taste the strawberry puree before combining it with the cream and adjust the sugar as needed.

What’s the best way to serve it?

I serve it in individual glasses, layered with fruit or cookie crumbs. It’s also delicious spooned into a tart shell or used as a cake filling.

Conclusion

Strawberry Mousse is the kind of dessert that’s simple to make but feels like a special treat. With its fruity flavor and dreamy texture, it’s a go-to for when I want something light, pretty, and delicious. Whether I’m sharing it with guests or just enjoying it for myself, this mousse never lasts long.

Strawberry Mousse

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-bake / Chilled
• Cuisine: French-inspired, American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Strawberry Mousse is a light, fluffy, and elegant dessert made with real strawberries and whipped cream. Naturally gluten-free and refreshingly fruity, this easy mousse is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, dinner parties, or romantic date nights. With just a few ingredients and no baking required, this beautiful treat delivers creamy texture and fresh strawberry flavor in every spoonful.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin (or agar-agar for vegetarian option)
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: extra strawberries or fresh mint for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 8–10 minutes until the strawberries break down and become syrupy.

2. Blend the mixture until smooth using a blender or immersion blender. Let it cool slightly.

3. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let bloom for 5 minutes. Warm gently (microwave or stovetop) until dissolved. Stir into the cooled strawberry puree.

4. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

5. Gently fold the strawberry mixture into the whipped cream until combined—do not overmix.

6. Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.

7. Garnish with fresh strawberries or mint before serving, if desired.

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Notes

• Use frozen strawberries if fresh are out of season—thaw and drain well before cooking.
• Substitute agar-agar for a vegetarian version (follow package instructions).
• Add a splash of strawberry liqueur for a boozy twist.
• Layer with crushed cookies or sponge cake for a parfait-style presentation.
• Use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.