Strawberry Mousse

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry mousse is the epitome of a simple yet indulgent dessert. It’s made with just a few basic ingredients but yields a rich, creamy, and refreshing treat. The sweetness of fresh strawberries, combined with the smooth texture of cream cheese or coconut cream, creates the perfect balance. The best part? It takes only 5 minutes to prepare, and the mousse is effortlessly light and airy. It's a versatile dessert that can be customized to your liking and is a wonderful option for any special event, casual gathering, or a simple dessert to enjoy on a warm afternoon.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese or coconut cream

• 4 oz yogurt or additional cream cheese or coconut cream

• 1 cup powdered sugar or sugar-free alternative

• 5 medium-size strawberries

• Optional: ¼ teaspoon vanilla bean paste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. If using cream cheese, allow it to come to room temperature. If using coconut cream, open the can and ensure that the contents are thick and creamy. (If the coconut cream is too hard and flaky, it will not work well for the mousse.)

2. Remove the stems from the strawberries and blend or mash them until pureed.

3. Add all the remaining ingredients to the strawberries and blend until completely smooth, using a food processor, blender, or hand mixer.

4. Transfer the mousse mixture into serving dishes, then refrigerate. The mousse will thicken considerably as it chills.

5. Serve chilled and enjoy the smooth, sweet strawberry flavor!

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream in place of cream cheese and opt for a dairy-free yogurt for an entirely dairy-free mousse.

• Sweetener Alternatives: Swap the powdered sugar with a sugar-free sweetener for a low-carb or sugar-free dessert.

• Berry Variations: If you prefer a different berry flavor, try raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries for a unique twist.

• Flavor Add-ins: Add a dash of vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: This mousse is best served cold, and since it’s not meant to be heated, it doesn't require reheating. Simply pull it out of the fridge when you're ready to serve!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before pureeing.

Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Absolutely! This mousse can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert option.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a food processor or blender?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth. Just make sure to mix thoroughly to achieve the desired mousse-like texture.

What’s the best way to serve strawberry mousse?

Strawberry mousse can be served in individual bowls or cups, topped with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an extra touch.

Can I substitute the yogurt with something else?

Yes, you can substitute the yogurt with additional cream cheese or coconut cream for a richer texture.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, by using coconut cream and a dairy-free yogurt or an alternative sweetener, this recipe can be made vegan.

Can I add more sweetener to the mousse?

You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more powdered sugar or a sugar alternative, but be cautious not to over-sweeten.

Can I freeze strawberry mousse?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the mousse. Keep in mind that freezing may affect the texture, and it may become more solid rather than light and fluffy when thawed.

Can I use fresh whipped cream in this mousse?

While fresh whipped cream could be added for an extra layer of richness, the mousse itself doesn't require it as it already has a creamy texture from the other ingredients.

How can I make this mousse thicker?

The mousse will naturally thicken as it chills. If you want a firmer mousse, let it refrigerate for longer, or you can add more cream cheese or coconut cream for extra thickness.

Conclusion

This strawberry mousse recipe is an easy, quick, and indulgent treat that offers the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or as an everyday treat, this mousse is sure to be a hit. With a few simple ingredients and just a few minutes of preparation, you can enjoy a delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.