Elegant Raspberry Mousse Dessert Recipe is a light, creamy, and beautifully balanced dessert that highlights the fresh, tangy flavor of raspberries in the most luxurious way. This classic-style mousse feels fancy enough for special occasions yet is simple enough to prepare at home with confidence.
Why You’ll Love This Elegant Raspberry Mousse Dessert Recipe
- Light and airy texture with a smooth, creamy finish
- Bright raspberry flavor that’s sweet, fresh, and slightly tangy
- Elegant presentation for dinner parties, holidays, or date nights
- Can be made ahead, making entertaining stress-free
- Versatile enough to serve on its own or use as a cake or tart filling
Ingredients for Elegant Raspberry Mousse Dessert Recipe
Raspberry Base
- 6 oz (170 g) raspberries, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Whipped Cream Layer
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)
Ingredient Notes
- Raspberries: Frozen raspberries work perfectly and are often more consistent in flavor.
- Gelatin: This helps the mousse set while staying soft. For a vegetarian option, agar-agar can be used following package directions.
- Sugar: Adjust based on how sweet or tart your raspberries are.
- Cream: Use full-fat heavy cream for the best texture and stability.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Raspberry Purée
Add raspberries and granulated sugar to a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the berries break down and release their juices. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes.
Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing with a spoon to remove the seeds. You should have a smooth, vibrant raspberry purée.
Step 2 – Bloom and Dissolve the Gelatin
Sprinkle the gelatin over cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. Once softened, gently heat the gelatin (microwave for a few seconds or place the bowl in warm water) until fully dissolved.
Stir the dissolved gelatin into the warm raspberry purée until fully incorporated. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Step 3 – Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract and optional powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip; the cream should be light and fluffy.
Step 4 – Combine the Mousse
Gently fold the cooled raspberry mixture into the whipped cream in two to three additions. Use a spatula and light motions to keep as much air in the mixture as possible.
Step 5 – Chill and Set
Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until set. Garnish with fresh raspberries before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Let the raspberry mixture cool before folding it into the cream to prevent melting.
- Use soft peaks when whipping cream for the lightest texture.
- Fold gently and slowly to preserve airiness.
- Taste the purée before adding gelatin and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Chill serving glasses ahead of time for an extra-polished presentation.
Flavor Variations
- Lemon Raspberry Mousse: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the purée.
- Chocolate Raspberry Mousse: Layer with chocolate mousse or add shaved dark chocolate on top.
- Berry Blend: Replace half the raspberries with strawberries or blackberries.
- Vanilla Bean: Use vanilla bean paste for a more aromatic flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this elegant raspberry mousse in clear glasses to show off its beautiful color. Pair with butter cookies, shortbread, or a crisp almond biscotti. It also works wonderfully as a cake filling or layered with sponge cake and fresh berries for a trifle-style dessert.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store raspberry mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the creamy texture once thawed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~260 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 21 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 35 mg |
FAQ About Elegant Raspberry Mousse Dessert Recipe
Can I make this mousse ahead of time?
Yes, this mousse is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve. Add garnishes just before serving for the freshest look.
Can I make it without gelatin?
Yes, but the texture will be softer. You can substitute agar-agar or serve it as a loose mousse similar to a whipped cream dessert.
Is this recipe very sweet?
No, it’s lightly sweetened to let the raspberries shine. You can easily adjust the sugar to your preference.
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely. This mousse method works well with strawberries, mangoes, or passion fruit, though sweetness levels may vary.
Elegant Raspberry Mousse Dessert Recipe
Equipment
- small saucepan
- fine-mesh sieve
- mixing bowls
- electric mixer or whisk
- spatula
Ingredients
- 170 g raspberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp powdered gelatin
- 2 tbsp cold water
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Add raspberries and granulated sugar to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the berries break down and release their juices, about 8–10 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds.
- Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let bloom for 5 minutes. Gently heat until dissolved, then stir into the warm raspberry purée. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract and optional powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the cooled raspberry mixture into the whipped cream in two to three additions, using light motions to preserve airiness.
- Spoon the mousse into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until set. Garnish with fresh raspberries before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Elegant Raspberry Mousse Dessert Recipe is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with sophistication. Its light texture, vibrant flavor, and beautiful presentation make it a reliable favorite for both everyday treats and special occasions.