Indulge in the light and airy texture of homemade berry mousse cups, a dessert that brings the freshness of berries to your table. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or a simple sweet treat, these mousse cups are visually stunning and delicious. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dessert that will impress everyone.
Ingredients
For the Berry Mousse:
- 1 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust according to berry sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon gelatin powder (optional, for firmer mousse)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (if using gelatin)
For Garnish:
- Fresh berries (whole or halved)
- Mint leaves (for garnish)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Berries:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. If desired, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds, creating a smooth berry puree.
- Dissolve the Gelatin (optional):
- If using gelatin for a firmer mousse, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom. Then, microwave for 10-15 seconds until dissolved. Mix this into the berry puree once it has cooled slightly.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
- Combine:
- Gently fold the berry puree into the whipped cream, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Fold until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the mousse light and airy.
- Chill:
- Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or glasses. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the mousse to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Before serving, garnish each mousse cup with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, and a sprig of mint for a pop of color.
Enjoy!
These homemade berry mousse cups are not only visually appealing but also burst with flavor, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. They can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for dinner parties or special celebrations. Enjoy the delightful combination of light mousse and fresh berries!