Easy Fresh Strawberry Mousse is the perfect no-bake dessert when you want something light, creamy, and bursting with real fruit flavor. Made with sweet fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and just a touch of sugar, this mousse comes together in minutes and tastes like summer in every spoonful. It’s smooth, airy, and naturally vibrant, making it ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or a simple treat at the end of the day. With only a few ingredients and no complicated steps, this recipe proves that elegant desserts do not have to be difficult.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Fresh Strawberry Mousse
This strawberry mousse is incredibly simple, yet it looks beautiful when served in individual glasses. The natural sweetness and bright color of fresh strawberries make it visually stunning without artificial coloring. Because it requires no baking, it’s perfect for warm days when you want to avoid turning on the oven. The texture is soft and fluffy thanks to freshly whipped cream, and the layered strawberry puree at the bottom adds extra flavor and a lovely presentation. It’s also easy to prepare ahead of time, making entertaining stress-free.
Ingredients for Easy Fresh Strawberry Mousse
12½ ounces fresh strawberries (about 3/4 pound), cleaned and hulled
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup cold heavy whipping cream (at least 30% fat content)
Extra fresh strawberries, sliced for topping
Ingredient Notes
Choose ripe, bright red strawberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness. If your strawberries are especially sweet, you can slightly reduce the sugar. The heavy whipping cream must be cold to whip properly and should contain at least 30% fat to achieve stiff peaks. If you prefer a lighter option, you can replace a small portion of the whipped cream with thick Greek yogurt, though this will slightly change the texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Strawberries
Wash the strawberries thoroughly, remove the green tops, and slice them. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps maintain a thick mousse texture.
Step 2 – Blend the Puree
Place the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar into a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. The mixture should be vibrant and free of lumps. Pour the puree into a bowl and measure out 1/2 cup. Set this portion aside for layering in the serving glasses.
Step 3 – Whip the Cream
In a large, cold mixing bowl, pour in the cold heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. The cream should be thick, fluffy, and able to hold its shape when the beaters are lifted. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can cause the cream to become grainy.
Step 4 – Fold Gently
Add the remaining strawberry puree to the whipped cream. Using a spatula, gently fold the mixture together with slow, careful movements. Folding instead of stirring keeps the mousse light and airy. Continue folding just until fully combined and evenly pink.
Step 5 – Layer the Dessert
Spoon the reserved 1/2 cup of strawberry puree evenly into the bottom of four serving glasses. Carefully spoon or pipe the strawberry mousse over the puree layer, filling each glass evenly. Smooth the tops if desired.
Step 6 – Chill and Serve
Cover the glasses and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the mousse to set and chill thoroughly. For best texture and flavor, chilling longer or overnight is even better. Before serving, top with freshly sliced strawberries for a bright, fresh finish. Serve chilled and enjoy.
Pro Tips for Success
Always use very cold cream and a chilled mixing bowl to help the cream whip faster and hold its structure. Pat the strawberries dry after washing to prevent excess liquid from thinning the mousse. Fold gently and slowly to maintain the airy texture. Taste the strawberry puree before folding and adjust sugar if necessary. For a smoother puree, strain it through a fine sieve to remove seeds if you prefer a silky finish.
Flavor Variations
Add a splash of fresh lemon juice to the strawberry puree for extra brightness. Mix in a few crushed raspberries for a mixed berry twist. Layer the mousse with crushed vanilla cookies or graham crackers for added texture. Top with dark chocolate shavings for a richer contrast. You can also swirl a little strawberry jam into the mousse for deeper strawberry flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Easy Fresh Strawberry Mousse in clear glasses to highlight the beautiful layered effect. It pairs wonderfully with shortbread cookies, sponge cake slices, or a light vanilla biscuit. For special occasions, garnish with mint leaves for a pop of green. This mousse also makes a lovely addition to brunch spreads, baby showers, or spring gatherings. Because it is individually portioned, it feels both elegant and convenient.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store the mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The texture is best within the first 24 hours when it is at its fluffiest. Avoid freezing, as freezing can change the smooth and airy texture of whipped cream. If preparing ahead, wait to add fresh strawberry garnish until just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Easy Fresh Strawberry Mousse
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy Fresh Strawberry Mousse is the perfect no-bake dessert when you want something light, creamy, and bursting with real fruit flavor. Made with sweet fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and just a touch of sugar, this mousse comes together in minutes and tastes like summer in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 12½ ounces fresh strawberries (about 3/4 pound), cleaned and hulled
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream (at least 30% fat content)
- Extra fresh strawberries, sliced for topping
Instructions
- Wash, hull, and slice strawberries. Pat dry thoroughly.
- Blend strawberries with sugar until completely smooth.
- Measure out 1/2 cup of puree and set aside for layering.
- Whip cold heavy cream in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold remaining strawberry puree into whipped cream until evenly combined.
- Spoon reserved puree into the bottom of four serving glasses.
- Top evenly with strawberry mousse and smooth the surface.
- Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries before serving.
Notes
Use very cold cream for best whipping results. Fold gently to keep the mousse light and airy. Chill thoroughly before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 23 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 25 mg |
FAQ About Easy Fresh Strawberry Mousse
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used if fresh ones are not available. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before blending to maintain a thick consistency. Keep in mind that frozen berries may release more moisture, which can slightly soften the mousse texture.
How do I know when whipped cream has reached stiff peaks?
Stiff peaks form when you lift the beaters and the cream stands upright without collapsing. The texture should be thick and smooth, not grainy. Stop mixing as soon as this stage is reached to avoid overwhipping.
Can I make this mousse less sweet?
Absolutely. Taste your strawberries before blending and adjust the sugar accordingly. If the fruit is naturally sweet, you may reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or two.
Why is my mousse runny?
Runny mousse usually happens if the cream was under-whipped or if the puree contained too much extra liquid. Make sure to whip to stiff peaks and gently pat strawberries dry before blending. Proper chilling also helps the mousse firm up.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based whipping cream alternative that is suitable for whipping. Make sure it is well chilled and designed for stiff peaks to achieve the right texture.
Final Thoughts
Easy Fresh Strawberry Mousse is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its creamy texture, fresh fruit flavor, and beautiful presentation, it’s a dessert that feels elegant yet effortless. Perfect for spring and summer or anytime you crave a light treat, this mousse is quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to turn fresh strawberries into a smooth, airy dessert that tastes as good as it looks.