Recipe: Vanilla Mousse with Mango Chunks

Recipe: Vanilla Mousse with Mango Chunks

Vanilla mousse with mango chunks is a deliciously creamy and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavor of vanilla with the refreshing sweetness of ripe mangoes. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from dinner parties to casual gatherings. The light texture of the mousse and the burst of tropical flavor from the mango chunks create a mouthwatering experience that will leave your guests asking for more.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this delightful treat. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Mousse:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

For the Mango Chunks:

• 2 ripe mangoes
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Mousse

1. Infuse the Milk and Cream
   In a saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Split the vanilla bean in half and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the pod to the milk and cream mixture. If you are using vanilla extract, add it later in the process. Gently heat the milk and cream mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it just begins to simmer. Once it reaches a simmer, remove it from the heat and let it steep for 10 minutes to allow the vanilla flavor to infuse.

2. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar
   While the milk and cream mixture is steeping, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar in a separate bowl until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy.

3. Temper the Eggs
   Gradually pour a small amount of the warm milk and cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. This prevents the eggs from curdling. Once the egg mixture is warmed, slowly pour it back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream mixture.

4. Thicken the Mousse Base
   Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook the mixture while stirring constantly. Continue to cook until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5–8 minutes. Once thickened, remove from the heat.

5. Add the Cornstarch Mixture
   In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in water. Stir this mixture into the mousse base and cook for another 2 minutes to activate the cornstarch and ensure the mousse sets properly.

6. Strain and Cool the Mousse
   Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any bits of vanilla bean or cooked egg. Allow the mousse to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Chunks

1. Peel and Dice the Mangoes
   To prepare the mangoes, first peel the skin and then cut the flesh off the pit. Dice the mango into small chunks. If you want a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the mango, drizzle the mango chunks with lemon juice.

2. Chill the Mango
   Place the diced mango chunks in a bowl and refrigerate them until ready to serve. This will help them stay fresh and cool when added to the mousse.

Step 3: Assemble the Mousse

1. Whip the Mousse
   Once the mousse has chilled and set, use an electric mixer to whip it for a minute or two to make it light and fluffy.

2. Layer the Mousse and Mango
   Spoon the whipped vanilla mousse into individual serving cups or glasses. Gently fold in some of the chilled mango chunks into the mousse, reserving some for garnish on top.

3. Garnish and Serve
   Top the mousse with the reserved mango chunks and serve immediately, or keep it chilled until ready to serve. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a sprig of mint or a light drizzle of honey.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairing with Other Fruits: This vanilla mousse is delicious when paired with other tropical fruits like pineapple or passion fruit. You can also try adding berries such as raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.
• Elegant Presentation: Serve the mousse in clear glass cups or small jars to show off the beautiful layers of mousse and mango chunks. The colorful fruit and creamy mousse will create a stunning visual appeal for your guests.

Variations and Tips

1. Add a Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle some crushed nuts (like almonds or pistachios) on top of the mousse along with the mango chunks. This provides a nice contrast to the creamy mousse.
2. Make it Dairy-Free: To make this dessert dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond milk. Coconut milk works especially well with mango, enhancing the tropical flavors.
3. Infuse with Flavors: You can experiment with other flavors in your mousse, such as adding a splash of coconut extract or a bit of lime zest to the mango chunks for a zesty twist.

Health Benefits

• Mango: Mangoes are rich in vitamin C and vitamin A, both of which are essential for healthy skin and immune function. They also contain fiber, which helps with digestion.
• Vanilla: Vanilla is known for its calming properties and is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Whipped Cream: While rich, the whipped cream provides healthy fats and can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Storage

If you have any leftovers, store the mousse in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The mango chunks can be kept separately and added just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and vibrant.

Conclusion

Vanilla mousse with mango chunks is an elegant, tropical dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy vanilla mousse pairs wonderfully with the fresh, sweet mango, creating a balance of textures and flavors that’s both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you're serving it for a special celebration or just enjoying it on a warm afternoon, this dessert will surely become a favorite in your repertoire. Try it out today and delight your friends and family with this tropical treat!