Oh, my goodness! If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as light as a cloud and bursting with fresh flavor, then you’re going to absolutely love this Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse! I remember the first time I made this delightful dessert—it was a warm summer evening, and I wanted something refreshing but also light to finish off our family dinner. My cousin, who’s allergic to eggs and dairy, was visiting, and I thought, “Why not whip up something special that everyone can enjoy?” Trust me, this mousse is not only a crowd-pleaser; it feels like indulgence without the heaviness.
What makes this recipe unique is the use of aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas. It’s amazing how versatile it is! When whipped, aquafaba takes on a beautiful airy texture, almost like egg whites. And combined with the fresh strawberries, it creates a mousse that feels fluffy and fresh. Plus, it’s completely vegan, egg-free, and dairy-free—so everyone can enjoy it without worry. Let’s dive into how to make this fabulous treat!
What’s in Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse?
Fresh Strawberries: These sweet gems are at the heart of our mousse. I love using ripe, fresh strawberries when they are in season for that maximum flavor punch. Feel free to adjust the amount based on how fruity you want your mousse!
Aquafaba: This is the star ingredient! The liquid from canned chickpeas has magical whipping properties. When whipped, it forms stiff peaks similar to egg whites, allowing us to create a light and airy mousse. I recommend using canned chickpeas—just remember to save that wonderful liquid!
Sugar: A touch of sugar helps sweeten the mousse without overpowering the lovely strawberry flavor. You can use fine granulated sugar, which dissolves easily; or, if you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar for a hint of caramel flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Just a few drops of pure vanilla extract add depth to the mousse, rounding out the flavors beautifully. Make sure to use the real stuff for the best results!
Is Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! Not only is this dessert vegan, but it also has some great health benefits:
– **Fresh Strawberries:** They are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and tons of fiber! Strawberries can boost your immune system and help maintain a healthy heart.
– **Aquafaba:** It’s low in calories and high in plant-based protein, making it a fantastic alternative to eggs.
– **Sugar:** While you do want to enjoy sugar in moderation, you can always swap in natural sweeteners if you prefer.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that this treat is still a dessert, so enjoy in moderation—but trust me, it’s hard to have just one serving!
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas)
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
– A few drops of vanilla extract
This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for sharing (or not!).
How to Make Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse?
1. Start by blending the **fresh strawberries** in a blender or food processor until smooth. You can adjust the sweetness by tasting and adding a bit of sugar if desired. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, pour in the **aquafaba** and start whipping it using an electric mixer. Beat until soft peaks form and gradually add the **sugar**. Continue whipping until you achieve stiff peaks—this might take some time, but it’s totally worth it!
3. Once the aquafaba is whipped, gently fold in the blended strawberry puree. Be careful not to deflate the aquafaba; we want that light and airy texture!
4. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or glasses and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until set.
5. When you’re ready to serve, top each cup with a slice of fresh strawberry and a dollop of plant-based whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence.
Dress It Up!
If you want to kick things up a notch, consider adding some crushed nuts on top for a bit of crunch or a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color. And don’t hesitate to play around with other flavors—raspberries or mangoes can work wonders too!
I absolutely adore this Strawberry Aquafaba Mousse, and I think you will too! It’s light, refreshing, and has that perfect balance of sweetness and fruity goodness. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t forget to share your results with me! Happy whisking, my friend!
