Strawberry Mousse Tartlets

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly delightful about strawberry mousse tartlets that brings joy to any gathering. This recipe has been a favorite in my household, especially during the warmer months when strawberries are at their peak. Every time I whip up a batch, I’m met with excited faces and the delightful aroma of fresh strawberries wafting through the kitchen. My family loves the creamy texture of the mousse combined with the crisp tart shell—it’s the perfect balance of flavors. Not only are they delicious, but they also look stunning, making them an ideal dessert for special occasions or a casual family dinner. Here’s how to make these beautiful tartlets that are sure to impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients

Tartlets:

• Store-bought or pre-made pie dough, enough for 2 pie crusts

Strawberry Mousse:

• 2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh strawberries for garnish
• Mint for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Tart Shells

1. Roll out the pie dough to an 1/8 inch thickness.
2. Cut out 5-inch circles of dough and fit them into tart or mini pie plates.
3. Line the shells with parchment paper and fill them with pie weights.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, then remove the pie weights and parchment.
5. Bake for an additional 4-5 minutes until the shells are golden brown.
6. Allow the tart shells to cool completely.

Make Strawberry Puree

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped strawberries and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth and set aside.

Bloom Gelatin

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the strawberry puree over medium-high heat.
2. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin into the puree and stir until the gelatin dissolves completely.

Cool Strawberry Mixture

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.

Combine Mascarpone and Sugar

1. In a separate bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese and 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
2. Add the cooled strawberry mixture to the mascarpone and gently fold until fully combined.

Whip Cream

1. In another bowl, whip 1 cup of whipping cream with 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mascarpone mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.

Fill Tartlets

Fill each cooled tart shell with the strawberry mousse, smoothing the tops with a spatula.

Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with fresh strawberries and mint leaves.
2. Refrigerate the tartlets for at least 3 hours before serving to allow them to set.

Enjoy!

Savor the delicious strawberry mousse tartlets and enjoy the smiles they bring!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 tartlets
• Calories: 250 per tartlet
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes (plus 3 hours chilling time)

How to Serve

• Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.
• Garnish with fresh strawberries and mint for an elegant presentation.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

Additional Tips

1. Choose ripe strawberries for the best flavor. The sweetness of the fruit greatly enhances the mousse.
2. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved in the strawberry puree to avoid lumps in your mousse.
3. Chill your mixing bowl before whipping the cream to help it whip faster and achieve a better texture.
4. Experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
5. Cover the tartlets with plastic wrap in the fridge to prevent them from absorbing odors.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust or make your own from almond flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream instead of whipping cream.
• Flavor Twists: Add a splash of orange or lime juice to the strawberry puree for a citrusy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these tartlets at summer picnics or barbecues.
• Perfect for birthday parties, baby showers, or holiday gatherings.
• Pair with a light white wine or sparkling beverage for an adult twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze the tartlets once assembled, as the mousse may separate. However, you can freeze unbaked tart shells and fill them later.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

• Yes, but fresh strawberries will provide a better texture and flavor.

1. How can I tell if my tart shells are fully baked?

• The shells should be golden brown and firm to the touch.

1. Can I use another type of cheese instead of mascarpone?

• Cream cheese can be used, but the flavor and texture will differ.

1. What if I don’t have pie weights?

• You can use dried beans or rice as an alternative for weighing down the tart shells.

1. How long should I let the mousse chill?

• At least 3 hours to ensure it sets properly.

1. Can I make the mousse ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the mousse and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before filling the tart shells.

1. Is there a substitute for gelatin?

• Agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian substitute, but the process may vary.

1. How do I prevent the tart shells from getting soggy?

• Bake the shells fully and consider brushing the insides with melted chocolate to create a moisture barrier.

1. What other garnishes work well?

• Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed nuts can enhance the presentation.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, just ensure you have enough tart shells and space in your refrigerator.

Conclusion

Strawberry mousse tartlets are a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With a light and airy mousse atop a crisp tart shell, they offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors that are simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or just want to indulge in a delicious dessert, these tartlets are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and watch as your family and friends fall in love with this elegant yet easy-to-make dessert. Enjoy!

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