Cranberry Mousse Cups are a delightful dessert combining tart fresh cranberries with creamy mascarpone and cream cheese. This treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dinner party. With their elegant presentation and refreshing flavor, these mousse cups are sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into the details of this exquisite dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Mousse Cups
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Cranberry Mousse Cups. First, they’re a beautiful addition to any dessert table, showcasing vibrant colors that catch the eye. Second, the creamy texture paired with the tartness of cranberries offers a perfect balance, making them an irresistible cranberry mousse dessert. Additionally, they are a no-bake option, meaning less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with family and friends. Plus, these cups are vegetarian-friendly, making them suitable for various dietary preferences. Each serving contains just 250 calories, making it a light yet satisfying treat. Finally, the versatility of this recipe allows for delicious cranberry mousse variations, making it adaptable for any season or occasion!
Ingredients for Cranberry Mousse Cups
Gather these items:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon gelatin
- 2 tablespoons water
How to Make Cranberry Mousse Cups Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries and sugar, cooking until the cranberries burst, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 2: Strain the mixture and set aside to cool.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Step 4: In another bowl, mix together the mascarpone cheese, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and the cooled cranberry sauce until smooth.
- Step 5: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cranberry mixture until combined.
- Step 6: Dissolve the gelatin in water and add it to the mousse mix, blending thoroughly.
- Step 7: Divide the mousse into clear mini dessert cups and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours.
- Step 8: Serve chilled, optionally garnished with fresh cranberries or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Mousse Cups
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure the cranberries are fresh for the best flavor.
- For a lighter version, use light cream cheese.
- Let the gelatin dissolve completely for a smoother mousse.
- Consider using a stand mixer for whipping cream for ease (JSON.Details.Method: Chilling).
Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Mousse Cups
These Cranberry Mousse Cups can be served in various ways to enhance the experience. Consider pairing them with homemade cranberry mousse cups for a delightful presentation. You could also serve them alongside a light sponge cake for a more filling dessert. Furthermore, adding a sprig of mint or a dusting of cocoa powder can elevate the visual appeal, making them perfect for festive occasions.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Mousse Cups
To store your Cranberry Mousse Cups, keep them covered in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. When ready to serve, there’s no need to reheat as this is a chilled dessert. This makes them an ideal make-ahead option for meal prep, especially during busy holiday seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Mousse Cups
What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Mousse Cups?
The secret lies in using fresh cranberries for the sauce and ensuring the cream is whipped to soft peaks to maintain that light and airy texture. This balance is crucial for achieving the ideal creamy cranberry dessert.
Can I make Cranberry Mousse Cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! These mousse cups can be made a day in advance. Just ensure they are well covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Mousse Cups?
Common mistakes include over-whipping the cream or not allowing the cranberry mixture to cool properly before combining. These steps are vital to achieving a smooth and creamy mousse.
Variations of Cranberry Mousse Cups You Can Try
If you’re looking for delicious cranberry mousse variations, consider incorporating different flavors. For instance, adding a splash of orange zest can provide a refreshing twist. You can also experiment with different types of cream, such as coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Lastly, try layering your mousse with chocolate or vanilla pudding for an extra indulgent dessert.
For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, check out this Healthline article.
To explore more delicious recipes, visit our latest recipes page!
For a festive twist, try our Cranberry Brie Bites!
Print
Cranberry Mousse Cups: 7 Layers of Creamy Delight
- Total Time: 240 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful dessert combining tart fresh cranberries with creamy mascarpone and cream cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon gelatin
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the cranberries and sugar, cooking until the cranberries burst, about 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and set aside to cool.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- In another bowl, mix together the mascarpone cheese, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and the cooled cranberry sauce until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cranberry mixture until combined.
- Dissolve the gelatin in water and add it to the mousse mix, blending thoroughly.
- Divide the mousse into clear mini dessert cups and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours.
- Serve chilled, optionally garnished with fresh cranberries or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: Cranberry Mousse Cups










