Strawberry mousse roll

Strawberry mousse roll: an elegant delicacy, easy to prepare and perfect for celebrating special moments. This recipe combines a fluffy sponge cake with a fresh strawberry mousse, creating a refined and flavorful dessert. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for the warm season when strawberries are at their peak flavor.

Total preparation time: 45-55 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the sponge:
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the strawberry mousse:
- 150-200 g fresh strawberries
- 100 ml liquid cream (like Hulala or pastry cream)
- 2 teaspoons gelatin
- 3-4 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 4-5 tablespoons granulated sugar

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the sponge
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until they form a stiff foam. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a shiny meringue. Add the yolks, vanilla extract, and gently fold in with a spatula.

In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. Gently incorporate the flour mixture into the egg mixture using soft folding motions to avoid losing air from the batter.

Step 2: Baking the sponge
Prepare a baking tray (approximately 30x40 cm) lined with baking paper. Pour the batter evenly into the tray and level the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 8-10 minutes or until the sponge is lightly browned and elastic to the touch.

After baking, remove the sponge from the oven and, with the paper, place it on a damp towel. Carefully roll it up using the towel to help, and let it cool completely.

Step 3: Preparing the strawberry mousse
Meanwhile, chop the strawberries into small pieces. Place them in a saucepan along with the orange juice and sugar. Cook the mixture over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juice.

Soak the gelatin in 3 tablespoons of cold water for a few minutes, then melt it over a double boiler or in the microwave. Add the melted gelatin to the strawberry mixture and mix well. Refrigerate the mixture until it cools and starts to thicken.

In another bowl, whip the cream until it doubles in volume. Add the strawberry jelly (which should now be at room temperature) and gently fold it into the cream to achieve an airy and creamy mousse.

Step 4: Assembling the roll
Unroll the cooled sponge and carefully remove the baking paper. Spread the strawberry mousse evenly over the surface of the sponge, leaving a margin of about 1 cm. Start rolling the sponge, using the towel to assist you. Be careful not to ruin the shape of the roll. As you roll, gently peel away the baking paper.

Once you have formed the roll, you can dust it with a little powdered sugar for an elegant look. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Serving and pairing suggestions
When you are ready to serve, slice the roll with a sharp knife to achieve perfect portions. You can decorate each slice with a few pieces of fresh strawberries and a drizzle of cream, offering a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

The strawberry mousse roll pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic coffee or a fruit tea, adding a touch of freshness and flavor.

Nutritional benefits
This strawberry mousse roll recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Strawberries are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and antioxidants, which contribute to overall health. The cream adds a note of creaminess, but you can opt for a sour cream version to reduce calories and achieve a tangier taste.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw them before using and drain them well to avoid adding too much water to the mixture.

2. What can I use instead of gelatin?
If you want a vegetarian option, you can use agar-agar instead of gelatin, keeping in mind that you need to follow the specific usage instructions for it.

3. How can I customize this recipe?
To give it a unique touch, you can add a bit of fresh mint or a splash of liqueur (for example, strawberry or orange) to the strawberry mousse. Additionally, you can replace strawberries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or peaches.

This strawberry mousse roll recipe is perfect for enjoying with loved ones, bringing them a touch of happiness and joy. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat your family, each bite will be an explosion of flavors and textures. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s enjoy this delicious recipe together!