Strawberry Coconut Mousse Cups

Name: Strawberry Coconut Mousse Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 1 cup coconut cream, chilled; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp gelatin powder (optional); Fresh strawberries and coconut flakes for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

I love making Strawberry Coconut Mousse Cups when I want a light yet indulgent dessert that feels tropical. The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy coconut creates a delightful taste that transports me to a sunny beach. It's an easy recipe that impresses my guests every time. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up these delightful cups that are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they can be prepared in advance, making them a fantastic option for dinner parties or casual gatherings.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-21T20:02:18.551Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how simple it is to create such a rich and flavorful dessert. The light, airy texture of the mousse combined with the vibrant strawberries gives a refreshing contrast that I can’t resist. I discovered that chilling the mixture for a bit before serving enhances its richness.

Another tip I learned is to use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Not only do they taste incredible, but they also add a beautiful splash of color to the presentation. These mousse cups never fail to bring joy to my table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicate strawberry flavor balanced with creamy coconut
Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfectly portioned for individual servings, making them ideal for gatherings

Understanding Coconut Cream

Using high-quality, full-fat coconut cream is crucial for achieving that rich and creamy texture in your mousse. It should be well-chilled before whipping to allow for maximum volume and lightness. If you can find it, opt for coconut cream without additives; this ensures a cleaner, more pronounced coconut flavor. Keep an eye out for brands that separate easily, as this will save time during preparation.

For those who might not be able to find coconut cream, a combination of canned coconut milk can work in a pinch. Just remember to use the cream that rises to the top, discarding the watery part. However, the mousse may not be as rich, so consider increasing the amount of powdered sugar to balance out the flavor.

Whipping Technique

When whipping the coconut cream, start at a lower speed to avoid splattering, gradually increasing to medium-high once it begins to thicken. Whip until the cream holds soft peaks—look for a texture that is fluffy but still has some structure. Over-whipping can lead to a grainy consistency, so it's best to stop just when you achieve a light, airy texture that smoothly coats the back of a spoon.

If you decide to incorporate gelatin for added stability, ensure it's fully dissolved in the warm water before adding it to the whipped mixture. This step is essential to prevent any clumping and guarantees an even distribution throughout the mousse. It will also enhance the mousse's ability to hold its shape once it has been chilled.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Strawberry Coconut Mousse Cups

Ingredients

1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1 cup coconut cream, chilled
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp gelatin powder (optional)
Fresh strawberries and coconut flakes for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Mousse

In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled coconut cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until light and fluffy. If using gelatin, dissolve it in a small amount of warm water and add it to the mixture before whipping.

Fold in Strawberry Puree

Gently fold the strawberry puree into the whipped coconut mixture, being careful not to deflate the mousse. The mixture should have a beautiful marbled appearance.

Chill and Serve

Spoon the mousse into serving cups and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Before serving, garnish with fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of coconut flakes.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice to the strawberry puree. It enhances the overall taste and adds a refreshing brightness.

Garnishing Ideas

For an impressive presentation, consider layering the mousse with additional strawberry puree at the bottom of the serving cups before adding the mousse. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but will also intensify the strawberry flavor in each spoonful. You can create a fun contrast by using clear cups to showcase the beautiful colors of the mousse.

To elevate the dessert further, add a sprinkle of lime zest on top along with the coconut flakes. This brightens the flavors and adds an unexpected citrusy twist that complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly. Alternatively, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate could add an elegant touch and a bit of richness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Coconut Mousse Cups can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Cover each serving cup tightly with plastic wrap to prevent absorption of any odors from the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to two days, but noting that the texture is best enjoyed within the first 24 hours after setting.

If you have leftovers or want to prepare them in bulk, consider storing the mousse in an airtight container rather than in the serving cups. This allows for easier portioning later and saves on dishwashing. Just remember to re-whip gently before serving to restore any lost fluffiness from storage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this mousse in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mousse a day ahead, just keep it covered in the refrigerator.

→ Is there a non-dairy alternative for coconut cream?

Yes, you can use cashew cream or other vegan whipped creams as alternatives.

→ What can I substitute for powdered sugar?

You can use granulated sugar, but make sure to blend it well to ensure it's finely ground.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work too! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before pureeing.