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When summer rolls around, nothing beats the refreshing taste of fresh strawberries, and this is where my Light and Airy Vegan Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse comes into play. It all started on a lazy afternoon when I was craving something sweet but healthy, so I rummaged through my pantry and stumbled upon some chickpeas. I learned that their liquid, aquafaba, could transform into a magical fluffy base for desserts! The moment I whipped it into stiff peaks, I knew I was onto something special.

This vegan mousse bursts with intense strawberry flavor, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with just six wholesome ingredients! Imagine delighting your friends and family with a dessert that is not only gluten-free and low-calorie but also impressively fancy. Trust me, they won’t believe how effortlessly delicious it can be. So, grab your strawberries and let’s whip up this airy delight the next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing summer treat!

Why is Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse a Must-Try?

Lightweight and airy: This mousse has a cloud-like texture that feels indulgent while being guilt-free.
Bursting with flavor: The intense strawberry taste will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Simple ingredients: With just six wholesome components, it’s budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
Versatile base: Use the aquafaba technique to create different flavors; swap strawberries for your favorite berries for unique twists.
Perfect for gatherings: This stunning dessert is sure to wow guests at summer parties and barbecues, making you the star of the show!
Quick to prepare: In under 30 minutes, you can have this delightful mousse ready for chilling—ideal for spontaneous dessert cravings!

Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse Ingredients

For the Mousse

Fresh Strawberries – The core flavor of this mousse, offering natural sweetness; consider swapping for raspberries or blueberries for a delicious twist.
Maple Syrup – Adds an extra layer of sweetness; for a refined taste, use 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar instead.
Vanilla Extract/Seeds – Enhances the overall flavor profile; using seeds from half a vanilla bean creates a more luxurious taste.
Coconut Cream – Ensures a rich and creamy texture; remember to refrigerate coconut milk overnight for optimal results, using only the cream.
Agar Powder – A crucial gelling agent for this recipe; skipping it may result in a mousse that doesn’t set properly.
Aquafaba – The magic ingredient from canned chickpeas that mimics egg whites, providing the light texture essential in this Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse.

For Serving

Fresh Berries – Garnish with additional berries for an appealing presentation and a flavor boost.
Mint Leaves – A refreshing touch that adds color and complements the strawberry flavor beautifully.

Whether you’re hosting a summer shin-dig or simply treating yourself, this mousse is bound to impress!

How to Make Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse

Prepare the Strawberries: Begin by rinsing fresh strawberries and removing the stems. Blend them with maple syrup and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth consistency. This will be your strawberry base!
Heat the Coconut Cream: In a saucepan, gently heat coconut cream and agar powder over medium heat until boiling. Stir continuously until the agar dissolves completely, then combine it with the strawberry mixture. Allow this mix to cool down.
Whip the Aquafaba: In a separate bowl, whip aquafaba using a hand mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form, which should take around 5 minutes. This fluffy texture is key for your mousse’s lightness!
Fold Carefully: Gently fold the cooled strawberry mixture into the whipped aquafaba. Use a spatula and be patient to maintain the airy texture throughout.
Chill the Mousse: Transfer your delicious blend into ramekins or glasses, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set. This cooling time is crucial for the perfect mousse!

Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra strawberries for a pop of color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse?

Looking to create the ultimate dessert experience? Pair this light and airy vegan treat with delightful accompaniments that elevate the flavors.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or other seasonal fruits enhance the fruity notes and add a refreshing contrast in texture.
Mint Sprigs: A hint of mint adds a refreshing dimension that beautifully complements the sweetness of the mousse; a simple yet elegant garnish.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Offer a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top to add extra creaminess and a subtle hint of coconut flavor.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: Rich chocolate shavings bring a luxurious touch, providing a decadent contrast to the mousse’s lightness.

Indulge your senses with these pairings. Whether it’s a summer gathering or a quiet evening treat, these options ensure every spoonful is a delightful surprise!

Herbal Infused Iced Tea: A chilled herbal tea adds a refreshing balance, making it a perfect drink to cleanse the palate between bites.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti offers a satisfying contrast and can serve as a delightful dipping companion to the airy mousse.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse

Fridge: Store the mousse in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Enjoy it chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the mousse in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: This mousse is best enjoyed fresh or chilled. If frozen, gently re-mix after thawing to restore the fluffy texture of your Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially strawberries and aquafaba, are at room temperature. This prevents the agar from setting too quickly and helps achieve an airy mousse.
Whip to Perfection: When whipping aquafaba, watch for stiff peaks. If over-whipped, it can become grainy. Aim for a light, fluffy texture that will make your Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse airy.
Storage Savvy: Consume your mousse within 2 days for the best texture; leaving it longer may cause it to lose its delightful airiness.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try beetroot powder for added color or consider swapping half the strawberries for raspberries for a new flavor twist.
Pay Attention to Agar: Agar powder is essential for setting; skipping it or altering the amount can result in a mousse that doesn’t hold its shape.

Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse Variations

Feel free to explore different flavors and textures with these delightful twists on your mousse!

Berry Burst: Substitute strawberries with a medley of raspberries and blueberries for a vibrant and tangy flavor explosion. This twist not only brightens up the mousse but also introduces new taste dimensions.
Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to the strawberry mixture for a refreshing citrus kick. This will brighten the flavor, providing a perfect balance to the sweetness.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate finely chopped mint leaves into the mousse for a cool and refreshing herbal note. Garnishing with mint on top will add both flavor and visual appeal.
Chocolate Indulgence: Swirl in some melted dark chocolate or cocoa powder into the mousse mix for a rich, decadent version. The combination of strawberry and chocolate is a timeless classic that never disappoints.
Tropical Escape: Replace coconut cream with whipped cashew cream for a nutty twist. Cashew cream will lend a creamy texture with a subtle flavor that complements strawberries beautifully.
Nutty Delight: Add a tablespoon of almond butter into the strawberry mixture for a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the fruit. This adds depth and richness that your guests will love.
Spiced Adventure: Sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg while blending the strawberries to give your mousse a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for those cooler summer nights.
Avocado Cream: For added creaminess without the coconut, blend ripe avocado into the mousse mixture. This not only changes up the texture but also adds healthy fats for a nutritious upgrade!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse in advance is a fantastic time-saver for those busy weeknights! You can blend the strawberry, maple syrup, and vanilla mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before you whip the aquafaba. Additionally, the whipped aquafaba can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to fold it into the strawberry mixture. For optimal texture, finish by carefully folding the two mixtures together just before serving. This way, you’ll achieve that delightful airy quality while enjoying the convenience of meal prep, ensuring your mousse remains just as delicious, fresh, and inviting!

Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries for the mousse?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, fragrant, and firm to the touch. Avoid those with dark spots or bruising, as they may not provide the best flavor. If you can’t find ripe strawberries, you can also opt for raspberries or blueberries for a different yet delicious variation.

What’s the best way to store leftover mousse?
To keep your mousse fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will preserve its light and airy texture. I often find that it tastes best when enjoyed chilled, so make sure to dig in while it’s still nice and cool!

Can I freeze the Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse?
Certainly! For extended storage, transfer the mousse to an airtight container and freeze it for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, gently re-mix the mousse with a spatula to restore its fluffy texture before serving.

What should I do if my aquafaba isn’t whipping up properly?
Very! If your aquafaba isn’t forming stiff peaks, ensure that the bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any grease. Whip the aquafaba for longer, and consider using colder aquafaba, which can whip up better. If it’s still not working, it may be best to start with a new can of chickpeas, as some varieties can vary in quality.

Is this recipe safe for my pet?
While strawberries are safe for dogs in moderation, make sure your furry friend doesn’t consume any of the mousse itself, as it contains maple syrup and aquafaba, which aren’t suitable for pets. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about introducing new food to your pet’s diet.

Can I make this mousse gluten-free?
Absolutely! This Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse is naturally gluten-free, provided you use certified gluten-free ingredients. The key is to ensure that your other components, like your maple syrup and any added sugars, are free from gluten as well. 🥳