Get ready to fall head-over-heels for strawberry mousse—a delightfully airy dessert bursting with real strawberry flavor. This recipe is the answer when you crave something elegant but low-effort, whether it’s for a family dinner or a special celebration. You’re about to discover just how simple it is to whip up a bowl (or several!) of strawberry mousse that’s perfectly sweet, creamy, and sure to have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of this strawberry mousse is how accessible and uncomplicated the ingredients are. Each one plays a pivotal role in the final texture and taste, letting those beautiful fresh strawberries really shine.

Cream cheese or coconut cream: Provides the rich, velvety base that makes this mousse incredibly creamy. Cream cheese adds a tangy depth, while coconut cream lends a subtle, tropical flavor for a dairy-free option.
Yogurt or extra cream cheese/coconut cream: Yogurt makes the mousse light and a little tart, yet swapping in more cream cheese or coconut cream delivers extra silkiness and body.
Powdered sugar or sugar-free alternative: Not only sweetens the dessert, but the fine texture helps create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Fresh strawberries: These are the star! They provide vibrant color, natural sweetness, and the very essence of strawberry mousse.
Optional vanilla bean paste: Just a hint deepens the flavor and gives a luscious, bakery-style aroma and flecked appearance.

How to Make Strawberry Mousse

Step 1: Prepare Your Cream Base

If you’re using cream cheese, let it come fully to room temperature—this ensures a velvety base with no lumps. If you’re opting for coconut cream, use only the thick, creamy portion from the top of the chilled can. Check in advance for quality; a flaky or dry can won’t work and could affect your mousse’s texture.

Step 2: Puree the Strawberries

After removing the stems, either blend or mash the strawberries until completely pureed. You want the berries to be as smooth as possible for that dreamy, pink mousse without any chunks. If you’re using a blender for the whole recipe, you can puree them directly in the appliance.

Step 3: Blend Everything Together

Add the cream cheese (or coconut cream), yogurt (or additional cream/coconut cream), powdered sugar, optional vanilla bean paste, and your strawberry puree to a food processor or blender. Process until the mixture is totally smooth, creamy, and light pink. For extra fluffiness, a hand or stand mixer can also be used—just be sure to start on low speed to avoid splatters.

Step 4: Chill the Mousse

Transfer the mixture into individual dessert cups, ramekins, or a large serving bowl, then place them in the refrigerator. The strawberry mousse will thicken beautifully as it chills, so don’t skip this step! Allow at least 1 hour, though it’s even better if you can let it sit a little longer.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once set, your strawberry mousse is ready to delight! The creamy texture pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or on its own in all its blushing pink glory.

How to Serve Strawberry Mousse

Garnishes

Go beyond the basics: top your mousse with extra sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of finely grated dark chocolate, or a few fresh mint leaves for a burst of freshness. A swirl of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar can also highlight the lightness and color of the strawberry mousse.

Side Dishes

This mousse loves company! Serve alongside crisp buttery cookies, ladyfingers, or simple vanilla shortbread to add a pleasant crunch. Alternatively, pair it with a platter of mixed berries or a citrusy fruit salad for a truly refreshing finish.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your strawberry mousse in small glasses with crushed biscuits or sponge cake for a playful trifle effect. For parties, spoon it into chocolate cups or pipe it delicately into cocktail glasses garnished with edible flowers. Tiny mason jars make adorable single-serves for picnics and brunches as well.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Strawberry mousse is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Cover the portioned mousse tightly with plastic wrap or lids and keep refrigerated for up to three days. The flavor and texture will remain perfectly luscious, especially if kept chilled in individual serving dishes.

Freezing

If you need to prepare much in advance, you can freeze strawberry mousse. Spoon it into airtight, freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving—the texture may become slightly denser, but the flavor remains delightful.

Reheating

Since strawberry mousse is meant to be enjoyed chilled, reheating is not necessary. If your mousse separates after being frozen, simply stir it well or give it a quick whip before serving to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry mousse?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well! Just thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid to avoid watering down the mousse. Blending them into a smooth puree is key for that luxurious texture.

Is strawberry mousse gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients, making it naturally gluten-free (just double-check your yogurt and flavorings).

How do I keep my mousse from being runny?

Make sure all of your base ingredients are thick (especially the coconut cream) and chill the mousse well. If it seems too loose, a brief additional whip or a bit longer in the refrigerator usually does the trick.

Can I make strawberry mousse vegan?

Definitely! Use coconut cream in place of the cream cheese and yogurt, and be sure to choose a plant-based yogurt and powdered sugar (some are processed with animal products). The result will still be creamy and deliciously fruity.

How early can I prepare strawberry mousse before serving?

This mousse holds well overnight and actually improves as it chills, so making it a day ahead is ideal. Just keep it covered in the fridge and add garnishes right before serving for the best presentation.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how quick and rewarding it is to make strawberry mousse, there’s every reason to give it a try the next time you crave something special. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this crowd-pleasing dessert never fails to charm. Happy whisking—you’re about to make every strawberry lover’s dreams come true!