When the sun starts to warm the air and farmers’ markets begin bursting with vibrant strawberries, it’s a clear signal—dessert season is in full swing. This is the perfect time to whip up my Light and Fluffy Strawberry Mousse Cake, a treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. Imagine slicing through a soft, tender cake layered with a dreamy, airy strawberry mousse that seems to float on the palate. It’s a dessert that dazzles without demanding hours in the kitchen and serves as the centerpiece for celebrations big or small.
The combination of the velvety mousse and fresh strawberries not only brings a pop of color to your table but also a delightful sweetness that whispers indulgence. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself after a long week, this strawberry sensation will have everyone swooning. Get ready to impress, because even the most discerning palates can’t resist this light and airy delight!
Why is Strawberry Mousse Cake irresistible?
Lightness and Elegance: This cake is incredibly light, allowing you to indulge guilt-free!
Effortless Preparation: A straightforward recipe means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying it.
Refreshing Flavor: Juicy strawberries combined with airy mousse create a symphony of freshness in every bite.
Stunning Presentation: Bright, fresh strawberries on top make for a mesmerizing centerpiece at any gathering.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in different fruits or adapt for dietary needs, making it a recipe that’s always a hit!
Get started on this delightful dessert, and enjoy something spectacular without the stress!
Strawberry Mousse Cake Ingredients
• Elevate your baking with these essentials!
For the Cake Base
- Cake Flour – Provides structure and a tender crumb; substitute all-purpose flour with a little less for similar results.
- Baking Powder – A key leavening agent for lift; make sure it’s fresh for the best outcome.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavor; don’t skip it!
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- White Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and contributes to texture; coconut sugar can be a healthier alternative.
- Oil (Canola or Vegetable) – Ensures moistness and extends shelf-life; melted coconut oil works beautifully too.
- Egg Whites – Offer stability and an airy structure; aquafaba can be a great vegan substitute.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; almond extract is a delightful alternative if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Sour Cream – Brings moisture and a slight tang; Greek yogurt can seamlessly substitute here.
For the Strawberry Mousse
- Strawberries (Fresh or Frozen) – The star of the mousse; opt for fresh for a burst of flavor!
- Powdered Gelatin – Helps set the mousse; choose agar-agar for a vegetarian alternative.
- Heavy Cream – Creates the lush, fluffy texture; it’s best if cold for whipping.
- Ground Freeze-Dried Strawberries – Intensifies the mousse’s strawberry flavor; optional, but highly recommended.
For Decoration
- Fresh Strawberries (for decoration) – Adds a gorgeous, fresh touch; choose ripe ones for maximum appeal!
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Strawberry Mousse Cake that will charm everyone!
How to Make Strawberry Mousse Cake
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Preheat oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by spraying it with nonstick spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy release.
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Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures a light and fluffy cake by eliminating lumps and adding air to the mix.
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Cream mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, white sugar, and oil on high until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the egg whites, pure vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until everything is smooth and well-combined.
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Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the dry ingredient mixture at low speed. Gently combine until just incorporated, taking care to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
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Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare strawberry mousse: For the mousse, puree your fresh strawberries, then strain to remove any seeds. In a saucepan, simmer the strawberry puree with some sugar and vanilla until it slightly thickens, around 5-7 minutes.
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Gelatin prep: In a small bowl, combine the powdered gelatin with cold water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. Then, mix it into the warm strawberry mixture and heat gently until the gelatin has completely dissolved.
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Cool mixture: Place the strawberry mixture in the refrigerator to cool. This should take around 30 minutes—just enough time to ensure it’s not hot when combined with the whipped cream.
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Whip cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Gently fold in the freeze-dried strawberries, if using, then carefully incorporate the cooled strawberry mixture for a light, airy mousse.
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Assemble cake: Prepare your pan again, placing the cooled cake back inside. Pour the strawberry mousse over the cake, smoothing it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to allow the mousse to set properly.
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Serve: When ready to enjoy, carefully remove the cake from the pan, slice it, and garnish with fresh strawberries on top for that stunning finish.
Optional: Drizzle with a little chocolate sauce for an extra touch of decadence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Mousse Cake
- Room Temperature: Make sure all dairy ingredients, like butter and sour cream, are at room temperature for easier mixing and better incorporation.
- Gentle Folding: Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture; this helps maintain the airy texture that makes the mousse cake so light.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor in the mousse; frozen ones can alter the texture and taste.
- Proper Cooling: Allow the strawberry mixture to cool adequately before folding into the whipped cream to ensure it sets perfectly without melting the cream.
- Storage: Keep the Strawberry Mousse Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 30 days.
What to Serve with Strawberry Mousse Cake?
Pair this delightful dessert with complementary flavors and textures that will enhance your overall dining experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an extra layer of creaminess, perfectly balancing the lightness of the cake.
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Mint Sprigs: Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also a refreshing herbal note that elevates the berry flavors in the mousse. A simple garnish can make a world of difference!
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Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet provides a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the fluffy cake, offering a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal berries and citrus creates a fresh, vibrant side that complements the mousse while keeping your meal light and fruity.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of dark chocolate sauce adds a rich touch that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a sophisticated flavor pairing.
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Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine or prosecco pairs beautifully—its effervescence enhances the cake’s lightness and adds a celebratory touch to your dessert experience.
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Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade provides a citrusy zing that cuts through the richness of the mousse, creating a harmonious balance on your palate.
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Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like mascarpone or goat cheese for a savory option that beautifully contrasts the sweet flavors of the mousse.
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Pavlova: Another light dessert, pavlova’s crispy shell and marshmallowy interior make it an impressive side that echoes the airy tones of your strawberry mousse cake.
These delightful pairings will create a beautifully rounded menu that celebrates flavors and textures, ensuring that your Strawberry Mousse Cake is the star of the show!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Mousse Cake
Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and maintains the lovely mousse texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 30 days for a delicious treat anytime!
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge for several hours or overnight before serving to retain the cake’s delicate texture.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; the Strawberry Mousse Cake is best enjoyed chilled right out of the fridge!
Strawberry Mousse Cake Variations
Explore delightful adaptations that let you customize your Strawberry Mousse Cake to fit your taste!
- Berry Medley: Swap strawberries for a mix of raspberries and blueberries for a vibrant and tangy twist.
- Citrus Burst: Add freshly grated lemon or orange zest to the mousse for a refreshing citrus zing that brightens the flavors.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute heavy cream and sour cream with coconut cream and non-dairy yogurt to create a vegan version without sacrificing creaminess.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Fold in some mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the mousse for a decadent flair.
- Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts like almonds or hazelnuts between layers for a delightful textural contrast that enhances every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger into the mousse for a surprising touch of heat that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Mousse Layers: Create a layered effect by alternating between strawberry and chocolate mousse for a visually stunning and tasty variation.
- Pineapple Surprise: For a tropical spin, swap strawberries for crushed pineapple and add some coconut flakes into the mousse mixture.
Let these variations inspire you to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the creative process of bringing new flavors to life!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Mousse Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can bake the cake layer up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool it completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to keep it moist. The strawberry mousse can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator up to 3 days ahead. Just remember to keep it covered to maintain its light fluffiness. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the cake by pouring the mousse over the cake layer and chilling for at least 4 hours to set. This make-ahead strategy means you’ll have a stunning dessert on hand with minimal last-minute effort!
Strawberry Mousse Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries for my Strawberry Mousse Cake?
Absolutely! When selecting ripe strawberries, look for bright red berries without dark spots or blemishes. They should feel firm yet slightly tender when pressed. The aroma should be sweet and fruity—this indicates they are at peak ripeness!
What’s the best way to store leftover Strawberry Mousse Cake?
Very simple! Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its freshness and keeps the airy mousse intact, so you can enjoy it again!
Can I freeze my Strawberry Mousse Cake? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze slices of your Strawberry Mousse Cake! First, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best to freeze it for up to 30 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge for several hours or overnight.
What if my mousse doesn’t set properly?
If your mousse doesn’t set, it might be due to insufficient cooling of the strawberry mixture or not enough gelatin. To remedy this, try reheating the mixture gently and adding a little more dissolved gelatin, then refrigerate again until set. Patience is key!
Are there any dietary concerns with this recipe?
Indeed! If someone has egg allergies, aquafaba can be used as a substitute for the egg whites. For those with dairy intolerances, you can use dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt in place of sour cream and coconut cream for whipped topping. This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful Strawberry Mousse Cake!
How long should I let the mousse chill before serving?
Let the mousse chill for at least 4 hours to ensure it sets correctly before serving. This is an essential step to maintain the delightful texture and flavor of your Strawberry Mousse Cake!
Fluffy Strawberry Mousse Cake: A Dreamy Dessert Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by spraying it with nonstick spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy release.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, white sugar, and oil on high until light and fluffy. Add in the egg whites, pure vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until smooth.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the dry ingredient mixture at low speed until just incorporated.
- Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare strawberry mousse: Puree fresh strawberries, then strain to remove seeds. Simmer with some sugar and vanilla until slightly thickened, around 5-7 minutes.
- Gelatin prep: In a small bowl, combine powdered gelatin with cold water and let bloom for 5 minutes. Mix into the warm strawberry mixture and heat until gelatin dissolves.
- Cool mixture: Refrigerate strawberry mixture until cool, about 30 minutes.
- Whip cream: Whip heavy cream in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold in freeze-dried strawberries and then incorporate cooled strawberry mixture for a light mousse.
- Assemble cake: Place cooled cake back in pan, pour mousse over evenly, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
- Serve: Carefully remove cake from pan, slice, and garnish with fresh strawberries on top.
