Introduction
Looking for a soft, creamy, and fruity dessert that feels light as air? Say hello to Apricot Mousse! This dessert is not only tasty but also very easy to make. You don’t need to be a chef to prepare it — in fact, you just need a few ingredients and a little bit of time. Apricot mousse is a smooth and fluffy dessert made from ripe apricots, whipped cream, and a few other simple things.
It’s sweet, tangy, and melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for summer or any time you want something fruity and refreshing. You can serve apricot mousse at family dinners, birthday parties, or as a special treat after a long day. And the best part? Even kids can help make it! So, let’s learn how to make this easy and delicious apricot mousse.
Ingredients – Apricot Mousse
Here is a list of ingredients you will need to make apricot mousse:
For the Mousse:
- 2 cups of fresh or canned apricots (if using fresh, remove the pits)
- 1/4 cup of sugar (you can add more if you like it sweeter)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- 1/4 cup cold water (for blooming the gelatin)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
Optional Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Sliced apricots
- Mint leaves
Step by Step Process – Apricot Mousse
Step 1: Prepare the Apricots
If you’re using fresh apricots, wash them, cut them in half, and remove the pits. Cut the fruit into small pieces. If you’re using canned apricots, drain them well.
Step 2: Blend the Fruit
Put the apricots in a blender. Add the sugar and lemon juice. Blend until it becomes a smooth puree. If you want, you can also add vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Puree
Pour the apricot puree into a saucepan. Heat it on medium heat for 5–7 minutes. Stir often so it doesn’t stick to the pan. This step helps bring out the flavor of the fruit.
Step 4: Bloom the Gelatin
While the puree is heating, put the cold water in a small bowl. Sprinkle the gelatin over the water and let it sit for 5 minutes. This is called “blooming” and helps the gelatin dissolve properly later.
Step 5: Mix Gelatin with the Puree
Remove the warm apricot puree from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin and stir until it fully dissolves. Let this mixture cool down to room temperature. (It should not be hot when you add it to the cream.)
Step 6: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, pour in the cold heavy cream. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat it until soft peaks form. That means the cream should look fluffy and hold its shape.
Step 7: Combine the Cream and Apricot Mixture
Gently fold the cooled apricot mixture into the whipped cream. Use a spatula and take your time — you don’t want to lose the fluffiness of the cream.
Step 8: Chill the Mousse
Spoon the mousse into serving cups or bowls. Cover them with plastic wrap and put them in the fridge for at least 2–3 hours, or until the mousse is firm and set.
Step 9: Add Toppings (Optional)
Before serving, you can add a little whipped cream, a slice of apricot, or a mint leaf on top for decoration. And just like that, your apricot mousse is ready to enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180–220 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 25mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Sugars | 16g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Calcium | 4% DV |
| Iron | 2% DV |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use canned apricots instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Canned apricots work just fine. Just make sure to drain the syrup before blending.
Q2: What if I don’t have gelatin?
You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian option. Follow the instructions on the package as agar sets differently than gelatin.
Q3: Can I make apricot mousse ahead of time?
Yes, apricot mousse can be made a day in advance. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Q4: Can I freeze apricot mousse?
It’s best not to freeze it, as the texture may change when thawed. The mousse might lose its smooth and fluffy feel.
Q5: Is apricot mousse healthy?
It’s a lighter dessert compared to cakes or pies. Apricots have vitamins, and you can control the sugar level. But it still contains cream, so enjoy it in moderation.
Q6: How long does it last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 2–3 days if covered properly.
Final Thoughts
Apricot mousse is the kind of dessert that looks fancy but is actually very simple to make. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up something soft, fruity, and refreshing. It’s great for summer parties, family dinners, or anytime you want a sweet treat without baking.
What makes apricot mousse so special is how light it feels while still being full of flavor. The natural sweetness and tanginess of apricots mix perfectly with the smoothness of whipped cream. Plus, you can customize it — try using other fruits, adding a bit of honey, or even layering it with sponge cake.
So, next time you’re looking for a fun and easy dessert, give this apricot mousse a try. It’s a sweet way to brighten your day!
