Classic French Vanilla Mousse is a light and airy dessert that combines the richness of vanilla custard with the fluffiness of whipped cream. This no-bake dessert is perfect for entertaining or as a luxurious treat to enjoy any time. With its smooth texture and decadent vanilla flavor, this mousse is as impressive as it is easy to make.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Vanilla Custard:
- 1 ½ cups (12 fl. oz.) whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (16 g) cornstarch
- 1 vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon vanilla paste)
For the Stabilized Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups (16 fl. oz.) heavy whipping cream
- 1 ½ teaspoons plain gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Directions
1. Prepare the Vanilla Custard:
- Separate the eggs and place the yolks in a small bowl. Whisk together the yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Split the vanilla bean and scrape out the seeds. Add the seeds and pod to a small saucepan with the milk. Heat until steaming.
- Gradually whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture to temper it. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbling.
- Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl and cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface. Refrigerate for 2–4 hours until chilled.
2. Make the Stabilized Whipped Cream:
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let bloom for 5–10 minutes.
- Heat the gelatin in the microwave for about 20 seconds until melted.
- Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Gradually drizzle the melted gelatin into the cream while whipping, then beat to stiff peaks.
3. Combine the Custard and Whipped Cream:
- Stir ¼ of the whipped cream into the custard to loosen it. Gently fold the custard back into the whipped cream until fully combined.
4. Serve and Set:
- Divide the mousse into serving cups or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Garnish with fresh berries, shaved chocolate, or mint leaves before serving.
Nutrients (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Sugar: 20 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
Classic French Vanilla Mousse is an elegant and versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a customizable treat everyone will love!
The Elegance of French Vanilla Mousse
- Decadent Texture:
The hallmark of a great mousse lies in its texture. French Vanilla Mousse is a delicate combination of silky custard and fluffy whipped cream, creating a dessert that feels luxurious and melts in your mouth with every bite. - Authentic Vanilla Flavor:
Using real vanilla bean or vanilla paste elevates this dessert to another level. The warm, aromatic flavor of vanilla adds depth and sophistication, making it a timeless favorite. - Versatile and Customizable:
While the mousse is delightful on its own, it also serves as a versatile canvas for a range of toppings and accompaniments. Fresh berries, chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or even a dusting of cinnamon can enhance its already remarkable flavor.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
- No-Bake Convenience:
Unlike baked desserts that require precision timing, this mousse is a straightforward no-bake recipe. It’s perfect for preparing ahead of time, making it a stress-free choice for dinner parties or celebrations. - Stabilized Whipped Cream:
Incorporating gelatin into the whipped cream ensures that the mousse holds its structure while maintaining its creamy, airy consistency. This technique makes it ideal for serving in individual portions or even as a layered dessert. - Balanced Sweetness:
The use of granulated sugar in the custard strikes the perfect balance of sweetness without overpowering the natural richness of the vanilla and cream. This subtle sweetness ensures the mousse is indulgent yet light.
Tips for Making the Perfect French Vanilla Mousse
- Use Quality Vanilla:
For the best flavor, opt for high-quality vanilla beans or paste. If unavailable, pure vanilla extract is a suitable substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile. - Temper the Eggs Carefully:
When combining the hot milk with the egg yolk mixture, add it gradually and whisk continuously to avoid curdling. This step ensures a smooth, velvety custard. - Whip Cream to the Right Consistency:
Beat the whipped cream to soft peaks before incorporating the gelatin. This ensures the cream is light enough to fold easily into the custard without deflating. - Chill Thoroughly:
Allow the mousse to chill for at least two hours before serving. This not only helps it set but also enhances its flavor as the vanilla infuses the cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Presentation:
Serve the mousse in elegant glass cups or ramekins. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. - Layered Elegance:
Create a layered dessert by alternating mousse with crushed cookies, sponge cake, or fruit compote in a clear trifle dish. This adds visual appeal and texture to the dessert. - Pairings:
Pair this dessert with a crisp dessert wine, a cappuccino, or a strong espresso to balance its creamy richness. - Seasonal Variations:
Adapt the toppings to match the season. Use candied orange zest or spiced nuts in the winter, and fresh tropical fruits like mango or passionfruit in the summer.
Nutritional Highlights
- Rich in Protein:
The egg yolks and cream provide a good source of protein, making this dessert surprisingly nourishing. - Indulgent but Light:
Despite its richness, the mousse feels light and airy, making it satisfying without being overly heavy. - Low in Sodium:
With minimal sodium content, this dessert is a great choice for those monitoring their salt intake. - Customizable Sweetness:
Adjusting the amount of sugar or using natural sweeteners allows you to tailor the recipe to your dietary needs or preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
- Timeless Appeal:
French Vanilla Mousse is a dessert that never goes out of style. Its classic flavor and presentation make it suitable for any occasion, from intimate dinners to grand celebrations. - Effortlessly Elegant:
Though it appears elaborate, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare. Its no-bake nature and simple ingredients make it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. - Crowd-Pleaser:
This dessert is universally loved, appealing to those who enjoy rich, creamy textures and subtle flavors. It’s also easy to customize for dietary preferences or seasonal themes.
Conclusion: A Classic Dessert Worth Savoring
Classic French Vanilla Mousse is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience of indulgence and elegance. Its luxurious texture and delicate flavor make it a standout treat that’s as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging yourself, this mousse is sure to impress.
Pair it with your favorite toppings, serve it in stylish dishes, and enjoy the compliments that are bound to come your way. With its timeless appeal and effortless preparation, French Vanilla Mousse is a recipe you’ll return to time and again.