Strawberry Cream Mousse Ingredients

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🍧 Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree

1. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the strawberries release their juices and soften.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly, then puree it using a blender or immersion blender until smooth.
5. Optional: Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds for a silky texture.
6. Allow the puree to cool completely to room temperature.

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Step 2: Bloom and Dissolve the Gelatin (if using)

1. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon gelatin over 1 tablespoon cold water in a small bowl.
2. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes spongy.
3. Once bloomed, warm it gently in the microwave for about 5–10 seconds, just until melted.
4. Stir the melted gelatin into the cooled strawberry puree and mix well.

(Skip this step if you prefer a softer, more mousse-like texture.)

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Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. In a large chilled bowl, add cold heavy cream and powdered sugar.
2. Beat using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
   • Soft peaks mean the cream holds its shape but still has a slightly soft tip when you lift the beater.

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Step 4: Combine the Strawberry Puree and Whipped Cream

1. Gently fold the cooled strawberry puree into the whipped cream in two additions.
2. Use a spatula to fold carefully—avoid stirring too vigorously so the mousse stays airy and light.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired (you can add a touch more powdered sugar).

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Step 5: Chill and Set

1. Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving glasses, bowls, or ramekins.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until lightly set and chilled.
3. The mousse will firm up beautifully if gelatin was used; without it, it stays silky and cloud-like.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Just before serving, top with:

• A dollop of whipped cream
• Fresh strawberries
• A mint leaf or sprinkle of white chocolate curls for decoration

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💡 Tips for the Best Strawberry Mousse:

• Use ripe, sweet strawberries for natural flavor—avoid underripe ones.
• For a lighter texture, fold in a little beaten egg white (optional, for advanced cooks).
• For a layered dessert, alternate mousse and crushed graham crackers or sponge cake in a glass.
• Can be made one day ahead — the flavor deepens beautifully overnight.

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Would you like me to include a variation with cream cheese or yogurt for a richer or tangier version too?