Strawberry Mousse Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Mousse Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Tasty Treat Recipes

I absolutely love making Strawberry Mousse Parfaits because they combine fresh strawberries with a light, airy mousse that feels indulgent but remains surprisingly simple. Each layer is a burst of flavor, and the contrast of the creamy mousse with the tangy strawberries creates an incredible dessert experience. Plus, they look stunning when served in individual glasses, making them perfect for a special dinner or a casual get-together. Every time I whip these up, I can't help but smile at the delicious results!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T12:11:27.682Z

When I first created this Strawberry Mousse Parfaits recipe, I was aiming for something fruity and light that would be perfect for a warm day. I played around with different ratios of cream to strawberries until I found the right balance that didn't overpower the natural sweetness of the berries. The secret? Letting the strawberries sit with a bit of sugar to release their juices, which intensifies the flavor!

Another aspect that I found crucial was the texture of the mousse. Using heavy cream whipped to just the right level of stiffness creates that cloud-like feel, making the parfaits feel luxurious yet airy. Trust me, you'll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and refreshing flavor that screams summer
Layers of creamy mousse and fresh strawberries
Perfectly portioned for individual servings

The Importance of Fresh Strawberries

Using fresh strawberries is key to achieving the optimal flavor in your Strawberry Mousse Parfaits. Fresh strawberries not only provide a bright, tangy taste but also an appealing texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mousse. Look for strawberries that are deep red in color, firm to the touch, and free from blemishes. They should also have a sweet, fragrant aroma. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen berries, but remember to thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in your parfaits.

When you mix the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar, allow them to macerate for at least 10 minutes. This process not only softens the berries slightly but also intensifies their natural sweetness and creates a delicious syrup that's perfect for layering. Avoid letting them sit too long, as they can become mushy and lose their structure, which is vital for creating distinct layers in your parfaits.

Mastering the Mousse Texture

Achieving the perfect mousse texture is essential for a light, airy experience. When whipping the heavy cream, be careful not to overbeat—stop whipping when soft peaks form. This stage is crucial because overwhipping can lead to a grainy texture as the cream begins to turn into butter. For the best result, use a chilled mixing bowl and beaters, as this can help the cream whip up faster and achieve that perfect fluffiness.

Incorporating the powdered sugar and vanilla extract not only sweetens the mousse but also adds flavor depth. For a variation, consider substituting vanilla with almond extract or a splash of citrus juice for a refreshing twist. Just remember, if you decide to add liquors, like a splash of strawberry liqueur, do so sparingly to keep the mousse stable.

Presentation and Serving Tips

The visual appeal of your Strawberry Mousse Parfaits can enhance the overall dessert experience. Use clear glasses or small jars to showcase the beautiful layers of strawberries and mousse. For a stylish touch, consider drizzling extra strawberry juice or syrup down the sides of the glasses before adding the layers. This will not only look stunning but also add an extra burst of flavor with each spoonful.

These parfaits can be made ahead of time, making them a great choice for entertaining. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to add any garnishes, like mint leaves or additional strawberries, right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your own delicious Strawberry Mousse Parfaits:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients come together for a delightful dessert that everyone will love!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Mousse Parfaits:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Mousse

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Layer the Parfaits

In serving glasses, layer the strawberry mixture and mousse alternately. Start with strawberries, then add mousse, and repeat until glasses are filled.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, garnished with extra strawberries if desired.

Enjoy this delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, you can mix in a tablespoon of lemon zest to the mousse for a citrus kick. If you prefer a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Make-Ahead Ideas

If you're planning to serve these parfaits at a gathering, consider preparing the mousse and strawberry mixture a day in advance. Store the mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator and layer with the strawberries just before serving. This will save you time on the day of the event and ensure your parfaits have that delightful fresh flavor without being overly soggy.

To keep the strawberries at their peak freshness during storage, slice them right before you’re ready to layer. If you're concerned about leftovers, they can be stored together for a couple of hours; however, the texture may soften, so it's best to assemble as close to serving time as possible.

Variations to Try

While strawberry is the star here, feel free to experiment with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries, which can add a delightful twist to your parfaits. A mix of berries can provide a range of flavors and colors that are visually appealing and delicious.

For a richer flavor, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or a drizzle of melted chocolate between the layers of mousse and strawberries. This will transform your parfaits into a decadent treat that's still light due to the airy mousse, combining the best of both worlds.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mousse does not achieve the desired fluffy texture, it may be due to the cream being too warm during whipping. Always start with cold ingredients, and make sure your bowl and beaters are chilled to promote better volume and stability in the whipped cream.

In case your parfaits feel too sweet after assembly, a splash of lemon juice or a hint of salt can help balance the sweetness without overpowering the other flavors. Taste-testing during preparation will help you adjust the ingredients to your preference and ensure a perfect balance in your final dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these parfaits ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and assemble them a few hours before serving. Just keep them refrigerated.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Coconut cream or whipped coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free option.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh is best, you can use frozen strawberries if thawed and drained properly.

→ How long do the parfaits last in the fridge?

They should be consumed within 2 days for the best texture and flavor.