A rich and creamy Classic French vanilla mousse with a velvety texture, this dessert is a perfect blend of sophistication and indulgence. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or craving something sweet, this mousse will impress with its simplicity and elegance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and Creamy: The perfect balance of airy lightness and decadent flavor.
Elegant Presentation: A beautiful dessert to serve in individual glasses for a refined touch.
Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of pantry staples.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for effortless entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup heavy cream, chilled
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
1/2 teaspoon gelatin powder (optional, for extra stability)
1 tablespoon cold water (if using gelatin)
Directions
Prepare the gelatin (optional): Sprinkle the gelatin powder over 1 tablespoon of cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for 5 minutes. Heat gently over a water bath or microwave for 5 seconds to dissolve. Set aside.
Whip the cream: Whip the chilled heavy cream in a medium bowl until soft peaks form. Cover and refrigerate.
Cook the custard base: Whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt in a heatproof bowl. Place over a double boiler and whisk constantly until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Add vanilla and gelatin: Stir in vanilla extract. If using gelatin, whisk it into the custard until fully dissolved. Cool to room temperature.
Fold the whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard in three additions, ensuring a smooth mixture.
Chill and serve: Spoon the mousse into serving dishes, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours until set. Garnish as desired before serving.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings: 4
Variations
Chocolate Mousse: Replace vanilla with 1/4 cup melted chocolate.
Fruit Flavors: Add a fruit puree like raspberry or mango for a fruity twist.
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Stabilized Mousse: Use gelatin for a firmer texture, ideal for piping.
Layered Dessert: Layer mousse with cookie crumbs or sponge cake for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the mousse in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: Reheating is not applicable, as this is a chilled dessert.
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FAQs
Can I make this recipe without gelatin?
Yes, the mousse will still be creamy and delicious. Gelatin is optional for added stability.
How do I prevent the custard from curdling?
Whisk constantly over low heat and use a double boiler to control the temperature.
Can I substitute vanilla extract with vanilla bean paste?
Absolutely. Vanilla bean paste adds a more intense vanilla flavor and beautiful specks.
Can I prepare this mousse in advance?
Yes, it can be made a day ahead and kept in the fridge until ready to serve.
What toppings go well with vanilla mousse?
Fresh berries, chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or caramel sauce are excellent choices.
Conclusion
Classic French Vanilla Mousse is an elegant and versatile dessert that delivers sophistication and flavor in every bite. With its creamy texture and delightful vanilla essence, it’s sure to become a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions. Make it ahead, customize the flavors, and enjoy the timeless charm of this classic treat.
📖 Recipe:
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Classic French Vanilla Mousse
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the elegance of Classic French Vanilla Mousse, a rich and creamy dessert with a velvety texture. Perfect for dinner parties or a sweet indulgence, this mousse is made with simple ingredients for a timeless, sophisticated treat.
Ingredients
1 cup heavy cream, chilled
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
1/2 teaspoon gelatin powder (optional, for extra stability)
1 tablespoon cold water (if using gelatin)
Instructions
- Prepare the gelatin (optional):
Sprinkle the gelatin powder over cold water in a small bowl. Let it bloom for 5 minutes, then dissolve gently over a water bath or microwave for 5 seconds. Set aside. - Whip the cream:
In a medium bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until soft peaks form. Cover and refrigerate. - Cook the custard base:
Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and salt in a heatproof bowl. Place over a double boiler and whisk constantly until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat. - Add vanilla and gelatin:
Stir in vanilla extract. If using gelatin, whisk it into the custard until fully dissolved. Cool to room temperature. - Fold the whipped cream:
Gradually fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard in three additions, ensuring a smooth mixture. - Chill and serve:
Spoon the mousse into serving dishes, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours until set. Garnish as desired before serving.
Notes
To ensure the custard doesn’t curdle, whisk constantly and maintain low heat using a double boiler.
Vanilla bean paste can replace vanilla extract for a more intense flavor.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 230 kcal
