Cherry mousse is a delightful and airy dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. Made with fresh or canned cherries, whipped cream, and a touch of gelatin for stability, this mousse is a refreshing treat for any occasion.
Unlike heavier desserts, cherry mousse offers a light and fluffy texture while still delivering rich fruit flavors. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, elegant dinner parties, or as a simple make-ahead dessert.
Table of Contents
Key Components of Cherry Mousse
Cherry Puree
The base of cherry mousse is a smooth cherry puree, which can be made using:
- Fresh Cherries: Ideal for a natural, vibrant flavor.
- Canned or Frozen Cherries: Convenient alternatives that work just as well.
- Cherry Jam or Preserves: Enhances the sweetness and deepens the flavor.
Whipped Cream
The whipped cream provides the signature airy texture, made with:
- Heavy Cream: Whipped to soft peaks for a light consistency.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
Gelatin or Agar-Agar
To help the mousse set properly, a stabilizer is used:
- Gelatin: Dissolved in warm water and mixed into the mousse.
- Agar-Agar: A vegetarian alternative to gelatin.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cherry Mousse
Ingredients
For the Cherry Puree:
- 2 cups fresh or canned cherries (pitted)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Mousse:
- 1 cup heavy cream (chilled)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon gelatin (or agar-agar)
- 2 tablespoons warm water
Instructions
Prepare the Cherry Puree
- In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat until the cherries soften and release their juices (about 10 minutes).
- Blend the mixture into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor.
- Stir in vanilla extract and let the puree cool completely.
Dissolve the Gelatin
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over warm water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
- Heat the mixture gently until the gelatin dissolves completely.
- Stir the gelatin into the cooled cherry puree.
Whip the Cream
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the cherry puree into the whipped cream, ensuring a light and airy texture.
Chill and Set
- Divide the mousse into serving glasses or bowls.
- Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or until set.
Garnish and Serve
- Top with fresh cherries, grated chocolate, or whipped cream before serving.
- Enjoy a light and fruity dessert!
Tips for a Perfect Cherry Mousse
Choosing the Right Cherries
For the best flavor, use sweet cherries like Bing or Rainier. Tart cherries can be used, but you may need to add extra sugar.
Preventing a Runny Mousse
Ensure the cherry puree is completely cool before folding it into the whipped cream to maintain structure.
Getting the Right Texture
Whip the cream just until soft peaks form—over-whipping can make the mousse grainy.
Adjusting the Sweetness
Taste the cherry puree before mixing and adjust the sugar accordingly to balance the tartness.
Variations of Cherry Mousse
Chocolate Cherry Mousse
Layer cherry mousse with chocolate mousse for a decadent combination.
Cherry Almond Mousse
Add almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor with a nutty aroma.
Vegan Cherry Mousse
Use coconut whipped cream and agar-agar for a dairy-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Cherry Mousse Last in the Fridge?
Cherry mousse stays fresh for 2 to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I Make Cherry Mousse Without Gelatin?
Yes, you can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative or omit it if you prefer a softer mousse.
Can I Freeze Cherry Mousse?
Yes, but the texture may become slightly grainy after thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh.
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Cherries?
Absolutely! Strawberries, raspberries, or mangoes work well as substitutes.
How Do I Make a Sugar-Free Cherry Mousse?
Use a sugar substitute like Stevia or erythritol and unsweetened whipped cream.
