Cranberry mousse cups are a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. They have a rich, creamy texture and a sweet-tart flavor from fresh cranberries. It’s an easy, make-ahead treat that your family will love. Serve them at holiday gatherings or simply enjoy them as a cozy weeknight dessert.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This cranberry mousse is great because it’s simple to prepare. The ingredients are easy to find and the method is beginner-friendly. You can make it ahead of time, which is perfect for busy days. Plus, it’s a light dessert that feels special without requiring too much effort.

How to Make the Cranberry Mousse Cups

Making these mousse cups is straightforward. You start by cooking the cranberries with sugar until they burst. Then, you whip the cream and egg whites separately. Finally, you fold everything together before chilling it. This method keeps the mousse light and fluffy, making it a delightful experience with every bite.

What You Need

1 cup fresh cranberries
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
2 tablespoons water

Step-by-Step

In a saucepan, combine cranberries and sugar with 1/4 cup of water; cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Allow to cool completely.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla until soft peaks form.
In another bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form, then gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the egg white mixture, then fold in the cooled cranberry mixture until combined.
Spoon the mousse into clear mini dessert cups and chill for 2-3 hours before serving. Enjoy your festive cranberry mousse cups!

How to Serve the Cranberry Mousse Cups

These mousse cups are beautiful on their own, but you could also decorate them with a sprinkle of crushed nuts or a dollop of whipped cream on top. They’re perfect for festive occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful ending to your meal.

How to Store the Cranberry Mousse Cups

To keep your mousse cups fresh, store them in the refrigerator. Make sure they are covered to prevent drying out. They can last for about 2-3 days in the fridge. If you want to freeze them, it’s best to omit the whipped cream until you’re ready to serve. Simply thaw and whip the cream fresh before enjoying.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
Ensure the whipped cream and egg whites are folded gently to maintain the airy texture.
Chill for at least 2-3 hours to allow the mousse to set properly.
Experiment with different flavorings like almond extract for a twist.
Taste the cranberry mixture before it cools to see if you want more sugar.

Variations & Swaps

Swap cranberries for strawberries or raspberries for a different fruity flavor.
If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
For a sugar-free dessert, use a sugar substitute that works for cooking.
Add a bit of orange zest to the cranberry mixture for a citrusy flavor.
Top with dark chocolate shavings for a more decadent touch.

FAQs

Can I make the mousse cups ahead of time?
Yes, these mousse cups can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This makes them perfect for entertaining.

Can I freeze the cranberry mousse?
Freezing isn’t recommended due to the cream and egg whites. If you want to make them in advance, prepare the cranberry layer and store it in the fridge. Whip the cream fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for egg whites?
If you’re looking for an egg-free version, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute. Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white.

What should I serve with the mousse cups?
They pair wonderfully with a light biscuit or cookies. A side of fresh fruit can complement the dessert nicely too. Consider serving with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

What are common mistakes to avoid?
A common mistake is overbeating the egg whites or whipped cream. This can lead to a dense mousse. Make sure to stop mixing as soon as you reach soft or stiff peaks, depending on the step.