Description
This Strawberry Mousse is a light, airy dessert made from fresh strawberries, sweetened with sugar and brightened with lemon juice. Gelatin gives it a delicate set, and folded Cool Whip adds creamy richness. Perfectly chilled, it’s a refreshing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Strawberry Puree
- 1 pound fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Gelatin Mixture
- 1½ teaspoons gelatin powder
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Whipped Mixture
- 1½ cups Cool Whip (thawed if frozen)
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
- Puree and Cook Strawberries: In a blender or food processor, puree 1 pound of fresh strawberries until smooth. Strain the puree to remove seeds for a smoother texture. Transfer to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat.
- Add Sugar and Lemon Juice: Stir in ½ cup sugar and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until bubbly and slightly thickened with dissolved sugar. Remove from heat and cool for 15 minutes. Strain again to remove seeds and set aside.
- Bloom Gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over 2 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for a few minutes until it absorbs the water and softens.
- Heat Gelatin: Microwave the bloomed gelatin for 10 to 15 seconds until liquid but not overheated. Stir gelatin into cooled strawberry mixture until fully incorporated.
- Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the strawberry-gelatin mixture with a rubber spatula to maintain the mousse’s airy texture until combined.
- Chill: Spoon mixture into serving glasses or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours or until mousse is fully set.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or berries if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy your refreshing strawberry mousse!
Notes
- Straining the strawberry puree multiple times ensures a silky smooth mousse without seeds.
- Be gentle when folding Cool Whip to maintain the lightness of the mousse.
- If gelatin is not available, a vegetarian gelatin substitute could be used but may affect texture.
- Allow sufficient chilling time for the mousse to set properly; overnight chilling is also excellent.
- Adjust sugar to taste depending on the sweetness of your strawberries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
