If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like pure sunshine in a glass, look no further than Mango Mousse. With its irresistibly creamy texture, tropical aroma, and golden color, this classic treat transforms fresh mangoes into a fluffy, refreshing finale worthy of any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to indulge on a warm afternoon, Mango Mousse strikes a beautiful balance between elegance and ease, delivering a taste of summer in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mango Mousse recipe calls for just a few staple ingredients, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect airy, fruity texture. Gather them all, and you’ll be amazed by how they blend to highlight the star ingredient: luscious, ripe mangoes.
- Mangoes: For the most flavorful mousse, choose sweet, fragrant, and fully ripe mangoes—Ataulfo or Alphonso varieties are perfect.
- Heavy cream: Be sure it’s well chilled so you can whip it up into soft, pillowy peaks that give the mousse its airy structure.
- Sweetened condensed milk: This adds sweetness and richness, while also giving the mousse a silky consistency.
- Lime juice: A splash of fresh lime brightens the mango flavor and gives the mousse a little zing.
- Gelatin: Just enough to help the mousse set, ensuring a spoonable texture that’s never too firm.
- Water: Needed to dissolve the gelatin and activate it for perfectly smooth results.
How to Make Mango Mousse
Step 1: Prepare the Mango Puree
Start by peeling and dicing your ripe mangoes, discarding the pits. Place the mango chunks in a blender or food processor and blend until you have a completely smooth, vibrant puree. If you love really silky Mango Mousse, you can strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to catch any stray fibers. Measure out about 1 1/2 cups of this lush mango puree—you’ll want every bit for maximum fruit flavor!
Step 2: Bloom and Dissolve the Gelatin
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over a few tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for five minutes so the gelatin can bloom and fully absorb the water. Once it looks thick and gel-like, gently heat the mixture (either in the microwave for a few seconds or on the stove) just until the gelatin dissolves and becomes clear—don’t let it boil! Stir this liquid gold into the mango puree, ensuring it’s perfectly blended so your Mango Mousse sets beautifully.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Pour the cold heavy cream into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream until you reach soft peaks—think of clouds that just hold their shape. Don’t overwhip or you’ll end up with butter! The airy volume of the whipped cream gives the mousse its signature lightness.
Step 4: Combine Mango Mixture and Cream
Gently fold the mango puree (now mixed with lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and gelatin) into the whipped cream. Work carefully, taking your time, so you don’t knock out too much of the cream’s airiness. The two will blend into a beautifully pale orange mixture, fluffy and fragrant, promising a Mango Mousse that’s as light as it is flavorful.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Spoon the mixture into serving glasses or bowls, then pop them in the fridge for at least three hours. The mousse will firm up slightly while still staying feather-light. When you finally dip your spoon in, you’ll be rewarded with a perfectly chilled Mango Mousse that’s both creamy and refreshing.
How to Serve Mango Mousse
Garnishes
Top your Mango Mousse with a flourish of freshly diced mango, a sprinkling of toasted coconut flakes, or a few mint leaves for a fresh pop of color. If you want to elevate the experience, a dusting of crushed pistachios adds both crunch and a hint of luxury. These finishing touches make the dessert look (and taste) like something straight from a fancy bistro menu.
Side Dishes
While Mango Mousse truly shines solo, it pairs beautifully with crisp butter cookies or delicate coconut macaroons. On special occasions, try serving it alongside a small plate of tropical fruit salad or tender coconut rice pudding—the combination turns a simple dessert into a full tropical escape.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to have fun with presentation! Layer Mango Mousse in small mason jars for picnic parties, or swirl it in clear wine glasses to display its golden hue. For even more drama, drizzle with a ribbon of raspberry coulis or alternate layers of mousse and whipped cream for a festive parfait. However you serve it, the mousse invites a touch of playful elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Mango Mousse tightly with plastic wrap or a fitted lid and refrigerate. It will keep fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a fantastic option for prepping ahead or enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze Mango Mousse, spoon it into airtight containers and freeze for up to one month. Be aware that the texture may become a bit denser after thawing, but letting it sit in the fridge until just soft brings back much of its original silkiness.
Reheating
Mango Mousse is best served chilled and shouldn’t be reheated, as heat will cause the airy structure to collapse and the gelatin to melt. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge or allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes for maximum creaminess.
FAQs
Can I make Mango Mousse without gelatin?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, you can substitute powdered agar-agar or another plant-based gelling agent. Just follow the packet instructions for dissolving and setting—be aware this may slightly change the final texture.
What kind of mangoes are best for Mango Mousse?
The best Mango Mousse comes from using ripe, naturally sweet varieties like Ataulfo, Alphonso, or Kesar mangoes. If fresh mangoes aren’t in season, high-quality frozen mangoes or even canned mango pulp (without added sugar) will work well.
How long does Mango Mousse need to chill before serving?
For perfect texture, let your Mango Mousse chill for at least three hours. Overnight is even better if you have the patience, as it allows the flavors to fully develop and the mousse to set up beautifully.
Can I make this dessert ahead for a party?
Absolutely! Mango Mousse is a fantastic make-ahead dessert, as it holds up well for a couple of days in the fridge. Prepare it the night before your gathering and garnish just before serving for the freshest appearance.
Is there a way to make Mango Mousse dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with chilled coconut cream and use a vegan condensed milk or sweeten with maple syrup. The result is a mango mousse with a delightful tropical twist and all the creamy smoothness you crave.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tasted Mango Mousse before, prepare to fall in love at first bite. It’s a refreshing slice of paradise, and—best of all—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make at home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is a surefire way to bring a burst of tropical joy to your table. Go on—let Mango Mousse brighten your day!
PrintMango Mousse Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for dissolving gelatin/agar agar)
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Indian, International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This light and luscious mango mousse is a perfect summer dessert that captures the tropical sweetness of ripe mangoes in every spoonful. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this no-bake treat comes together quickly and offers a refreshingly creamy texture, making it ideal for parties, get-togethers, or whenever you crave something fruity and elegant.
Ingredients
For the Mango Puree
- 2 large ripe mangoes (about 2 cups chopped)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional, for brightness)
For the Mousse Base
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
To Set the Mousse
- 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin (or 1 tablespoon agar agar for vegetarian/vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Mango slices or cubes
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Mango Puree: Peel, pit, and chop the mangoes. Blend them along with sugar and lime juice in a blender or food processor until completely smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Set aside.
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom. After blooming, gently heat in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) or on the stovetop until completely dissolved. If using agar agar, dissolve in water and simmer for a minute until fully dissolved.
- Combine Puree and Gelatin: Stir the dissolved gelatin (or agar agar) into the mango puree. Mix well to ensure it’s fully incorporated and there are no lumps.
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Do not overbeat.
- Fold and Assemble: Gently fold the mango-gelatin mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Mix until fully combined and smooth, being careful not to deflate the cream.
- Chill: Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving glasses or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until set and chilled.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top with whipped cream, fresh mango cubes, or mint leaves for a pretty and flavorful finish.
Notes
- Use ripe, flavorful mangoes for the best taste—Alphonso, Ataulfo, or Kent varieties work well.
- For a vegan version, use coconut cream instead of dairy and agar agar instead of gelatin.
- You can prepare the mousse a day in advance for deeper flavor and easy entertaining.
- If mangoes are out of season, high-quality canned mango puree can be substituted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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