This raspberry mousse is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and no baking. It has a velvety texture with a vibrant raspberry flavor that’s both sweet and tangy. Perfect for summer gatherings, Valentine’s Day, or as a make-ahead dessert, it offers a gourmet feel without the hassle.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Fresh or frozen raspberries
Sugar
Heavy whipping cream
Gelatin (unflavored)
Cold water
Lemon juice
Vanilla extract
Directions
In a saucepan over medium heat, cook the raspberries and sugar until the raspberries break down and the mixture becomes syrupy.
Strain the raspberry mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds. Set aside to cool.
In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for a few minutes.
Warm the gelatin slightly until fully dissolved, then stir it into the cooled raspberry puree along with lemon juice and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the raspberry mixture until well combined and smooth.
Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls and chill for at least 2 hours or until set.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes approximately 15 minutes of active preparation time, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time before serving.
Variations
Use strawberries, blackberries, or blueberries in place of raspberries for a different flavor.
Add a swirl of raspberry jam for an extra burst of fruitiness.
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
Layer the mousse with crushed cookies or cake for a parfait-style dessert.
Add a touch of liqueur like Chambord for an adult twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover raspberry mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is not suitable for freezing, as the texture may change. No reheating is necessary—serve chilled directly from the fridge.
FAQs
What kind of raspberries should I use for mousse?
You can use either fresh or frozen raspberries. Just make sure to cook and strain them to remove the seeds for a smooth texture.
Can I make this mousse without gelatin?
Yes, you can substitute gelatin with agar-agar for a vegetarian option, but the texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when the mousse is fully set?
The mousse should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when spooned. It usually sets in about 2–3 hours in the refrigerator.
Can I make raspberry mousse ahead of time?
Yes, this mousse is ideal for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it chilled until ready to serve.
Can I skip straining the raspberry seeds?
Straining is recommended to achieve a silky smooth texture, but you can skip it if you don’t mind the added texture of the seeds.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you don’t add any cookie layers or ingredients that contain gluten, this mousse is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
Whipped topping can be used as a shortcut, but the flavor and texture may not be as rich or fresh.
How long does raspberry mousse last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Can I add chocolate to this mousse?
Yes, you can fold in some finely chopped white chocolate for a delicious twist.
What can I serve with raspberry mousse?
It pairs well with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also serve it with shortbread cookies for a crunchy contrast.
Conclusion
This Easy Raspberry Mousse is a beautiful, make-ahead dessert that’s sure to delight with its creamy texture and fruity flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create an elegant dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fine restaurant. Whether for a celebration or an everyday indulgence, this mousse delivers every time.
This Easy Raspberry Mousse is a light, creamy, and elegant dessert with a sweet-tart raspberry flavor and velvety texture. Perfect for entertaining or an everyday treat, it’s a no-bake, make-ahead dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
3 tablespoons cold water
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine raspberries and sugar. Cook until raspberries break down and mixture becomes syrupy, about 5–7 minutes.
Strain mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. Set raspberry puree aside to cool.
In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water. Let bloom for 5 minutes, then gently warm until gelatin dissolves completely.
Stir dissolved gelatin into cooled raspberry puree. Add lemon juice and vanilla extract. Mix well and let cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.
Gently fold whipped cream into the raspberry mixture until smooth and fully combined.
Spoon into serving glasses or bowls. Chill for at least 2 hours or until set.
Serve chilled with optional garnish of fresh berries or mint leaves.
Notes
Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Swap raspberries for strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
Layer with crushed cookies or cake for a parfait-style dessert.
Add a splash of Chambord or raspberry liqueur for an adult twist.
Top with whipped cream, fresh berries, or white chocolate shavings for extra flair.
