There’s something special about a dessert that’s both light and indulgent, and this Raspberry Mousse delivers just that. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a velvety texture that melts in your mouth. I love making this recipe when I want to impress my guests or simply treat myself to a refreshing dessert. The combination of fresh raspberries, whipped cream, and a hint of vanilla makes this mousse both simple and elegant. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this mousse is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The tartness of the raspberries pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy texture of the mousse, and with the option of adding gelatin for a firmer consistency, it’s adaptable to different preferences. The preparation is straightforward but results in a stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes. If you’re a fan of fruity desserts with a touch of sophistication, this Raspberry Mousse will become your go-to recipe.
Sweet and Creamy Raspberry Mousse
This mousse brings together the fresh, vibrant flavor of raspberries with the luxurious richness of whipped cream. The sweet-tart raspberry puree is the star of this recipe, while the whipped cream creates a cloud-like texture that makes every bite a delight. If you’re looking for a dessert that is both refreshing and indulgent, this mousse is a perfect choice. It’s quick to prepare, yet it has the wow factor to impress at any gathering. The use of fresh raspberries ensures the mousse is bursting with flavor, while the optional gelatin adds the perfect amount of structure.
Whether served as a light finish to a meal or as a standalone treat, this mousse is versatile enough for any occasion. It’s simple to make, and the best part is that you can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while the mousse firms up in the fridge. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible treat!
Ingredients for Raspberry Mousse
To make this delightful Raspberry Mousse, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a smooth, delicious dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:
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2 cups fresh raspberries – Choose ripe, fresh raspberries for the best flavor. These will be the base of your puree, offering that beautiful balance of sweetness and tartness.
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1/4 cup granulated sugar – This will help sweeten the raspberries and balance their tartness. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.
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1 tbsp lemon juice (optional) – A small amount of lemon juice enhances the tartness of the raspberries, adding a fresh, zesty note. You can leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.
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1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled) – Whipping cream provides the rich, airy texture that makes this mousse so indulgent. Ensure it’s chilled for the best results when whipping.
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2 tbsp powdered sugar – This helps sweeten the whipped cream, contributing to its smoothness and texture.
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a hint of warmth and depth to the flavor of the mousse, complementing the raspberries perfectly.
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1 tsp unflavored gelatin powder (optional) – If you want a firmer mousse, gelatin will help set it. This is optional depending on the consistency you desire.
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2 tbsp cold water (if using gelatin) – This helps dissolve the gelatin powder and allows it to bloom before mixing it into the raspberry puree.
How to Make Raspberry Mousse
Making this raspberry mousse is simple, yet it results in an elegant dessert. Follow these easy steps to create the perfect mousse:
Step 1:
Start by placing the fresh raspberries and granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the raspberries to break down and release their juices. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2:
Once the raspberries have softened, use a fine mesh strainer to press the mixture through, removing the seeds. This will leave you with a smooth raspberry puree. If you like a tangy kick, stir in the lemon juice at this point. Set the puree aside to cool completely.
Step 3:
If you’re using gelatin for a firmer mousse, dissolve 1 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin powder in 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom, and then microwave it for 5-10 seconds until it melts. Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the raspberry puree. Stir the melted gelatin into the cooled puree.
Step 4:
In a large mixing bowl, pour the chilled heavy whipping cream. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip it, as it may become grainy.
Step 5:
Once your whipped cream is ready, gently fold the raspberry puree into the whipped cream. Do this in thirds, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. The mixture should be light pink and airy, with a smooth consistency.
Step 6:
If you’re using gelatin, the mousse will start to firm up as it chills. Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving glasses or dessert bowls. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to set and for the flavors to meld together.
Once chilled, your raspberry mousse will be ready to serve – light, creamy, and packed with refreshing raspberry flavor. Enjoy!
How Long to Refrigerate Raspberry Mousse
The mousse needs adequate time to chill and set properly. Here are the general guidelines for the best results:
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Refrigeration Time: The mousse should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours. This allows it to firm up and the flavors to meld together perfectly. For best texture, don’t skip the chilling time.
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Overnight Option: If you prefer, you can leave the mousse in the refrigerator overnight. This will allow the gelatin (if used) to fully set, giving the mousse a firmer texture.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover raspberry mousse, it’s easy to store. Follow these simple steps for the best storage:
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Refrigerator: Store any leftover mousse in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can eat it cold directly from the fridge, or let it come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
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Freezer: While not ideal for the best texture, you can freeze the mousse for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 1 month in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw the mousse overnight in the refrigerator, then serve.
Tips for Perfect Raspberry Mousse
To ensure your mousse comes out perfect every time, here are a few helpful tips:
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Chill Your Equipment: Before whipping the cream, chill the bowl and beaters for a few minutes in the freezer. Cold equipment helps the cream whip faster and achieve stiff peaks more easily.
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Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of your raspberries, you may want to adjust the sweetness. Taste the puree before combining it with the whipped cream, and add a little more sugar if needed.
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Add Toppings: If you want to elevate your mousse, try adding fresh raspberries, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream on top before serving. This will not only enhance the presentation but also provide extra texture.
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Use Gelatin for a Firmer Texture: If you prefer a more stable mousse that holds its shape better, adding gelatin will give it more structure. However, if you like a lighter, fluffier mousse, you can skip the gelatin altogether.
By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy the perfect raspberry mousse every time, whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple treat.
Print
Raspberry Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Raspberry Mousse is a delightful, light dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. The creamy texture combined with the fresh, vibrant flavor of raspberries makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a dinner party or enjoying it on a quiet afternoon, this mousse is sure to impress!
Ingredients
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2 cups fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for added tartness)
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1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
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2 tbsp powdered sugar
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tsp unflavored gelatin powder (optional, for firmer texture)
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2 tbsp cold water (if using gelatin)
Instructions
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In a small saucepan over medium heat, place the raspberries and granulated sugar. Stir occasionally, allowing the raspberries to break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
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Use a fine mesh strainer to press the raspberry mixture through, removing seeds and leaving a smooth puree. Add lemon juice if desired.
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Set the raspberry puree aside to cool completely.
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If using gelatin, dissolve the unflavored gelatin in cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. Microwave it for 5-10 seconds until melted, then let it cool slightly. Stir the gelatin into the raspberry puree once it reaches room temperature.
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In a large mixing bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
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Gently fold the raspberry puree into the whipped cream, one-third at a time, until fully combined. The mixture should be light and airy.
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Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up.
Notes
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For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds over the mousse before serving.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold or let it come to room temperature before serving.
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If you prefer a firmer mousse, use the gelatin as directed. For a lighter texture, skip it.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I use frozen raspberries for this recipe? Yes, frozen raspberries can be used as a substitute for fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking and proceed with the recipe as usual. Keep in mind that frozen raspberries might release more liquid, so be sure to cook them down to a thick consistency before straining.
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Can I make raspberry mousse without gelatin? Absolutely! Gelatin is optional in this recipe. If you prefer a lighter, fluffier mousse, you can skip it and simply refrigerate the mousse until it sets. The mousse will still be delicious but with a softer texture.
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What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream? If you want a lighter alternative to heavy cream, you can use whipping cream or even non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
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Can I make raspberry mousse ahead of time? Yes, raspberry mousse is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it benefits from sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up. You can make it a day ahead and serve it chilled for the best results.