strawberry mousse cake

Strawberry Mousse Cake – A Refined and Vibrant Delight

When it comes to desserts, few can rival a strawberry mousse cake. This cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual masterpiece, perfect for any special occasion. The sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries, combined with the velvety texture of the mousse, transforms each slice into a true joy.

Moreover, this cake is a wonderful way to celebrate strawberry season, bringing not just flavor but also a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen. You might recall warm summer days spent with family and friends, enjoying fresh fruits. So, let’s get started and prepare this strawberry mousse cake recipe together, which promises to impress everyone!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Cooling time: 4-5 hours
Servings: 12

Necessary Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 4 fresh eggs
- 4 tablespoons of warm water
- 150g sugar
- 120g flour
- 50g potato flour (starch)
- 50g cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the mousse:
- 300g fresh strawberries
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 100g white chocolate
- 500ml vegetable cream
- 15g gelatin

Step by Step: Preparing the Strawberry Mousse Cake

1. Preparing the sponge:
Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Make sure you have a cake pan, ideally with a removable ring, but you can also improvise with a cardboard circle lined with baking paper.

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the warm water for about 1 minute until frothy. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until the mixture becomes creamy and a bright white. This is the moment when air is incorporated, giving the sponge a fluffy texture.

In another bowl, mix the flour, potato flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Sift the dry mixture over the egg and sugar mixture, folding gently with a spatula from the bottom up to maintain the airiness. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy sponge, so be gentle!

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the sponge cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Preparing the strawberry mousse:
Meanwhile, prepare the mousse. Start by soaking the gelatin in cold water for 10 minutes until it becomes soft.

Wash and hull the strawberries, then puree them using a blender until smooth. Mix the puree with the 4 tablespoons of sugar and bring it to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring constantly. Let it boil for a few minutes, then remove it from the heat.

Squeeze the gelatin to remove excess water and add it to the warm strawberry puree, stirring well until fully dissolved. Add the chopped white chocolate and mix until completely melted. Finally, allow the mixture to cool slightly (not completely).

In another bowl, whip the vegetable cream until firm. Then, gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture using a spatula, mixing with delicate up-and-down motions to avoid losing the air in the mixture. This will ensure a light and airy mousse texture.

3. Assembling the cake:
Once the sponge has cooled completely, cut it into two equal layers. Place the first layer in the cake ring (or cardboard circle). Soak the sponge with a simple syrup made from water and sugar to add moisture and flavor.

Pour the strawberry mousse over the first sponge layer, smoothing it out with a spatula. Place the second sponge layer on top, which you will also soak. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-5 hours or ideally overnight to allow the mousse to set.

4. Finishing the cake:
When the mousse has set, carefully remove the ring from the pan. You can frost the cake with a layer of whipped cream for an elegant look. Use fresh strawberries and grated chocolate to decorate, creating a stunning presentation.

Serving suggestions:
This strawberry mousse cake is perfect served alongside a scoop of ice cream or a cup of green tea. The delicate flavor of strawberries and chocolate pairs excellently with sparkling wine or a fruit cocktail.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries? – Yes, but make sure to let them thaw completely and drain any excess water.
2. How can I make the cake less sweet? – You can reduce the amount of sugar in the mousse, adjusting to taste.
3. How can I substitute gelatin? – You can use agar-agar, but follow the specific preparation instructions for this ingredient.

Nutritional Benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamins C and K, possessing antioxidant properties. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion. Vegetable cream offers a lighter alternative, and white chocolate, when consumed in moderation, adds extra flavor.

Calories:
A serving of strawberry mousse cake (approximately 100g) contains about 350-400 calories, varying depending on the specific ingredients used.

Possible Variations:
You can experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries or peaches, to create a different mousse. You can also add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the mousse for a more complex flavor.

This strawberry mousse cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that brings joy and beautiful memories. So, get ready to impress and enjoy every slice!