Introduction

This 5-Ingredient Orange Mousse Recipe is the perfect light and creamy no-bake dessert. It comes together in minutes with a few simple ingredients for a refreshing, citrusy treat. For another vibrant dish featuring fresh citrus, try the Avocado Grapefruit and Fennel Salad Recipe. These easy recipes are ideal for a quick, impressive finish to any meal.

Ingredients

This easy orange mousse recipe combines the bright, sunny flavor of fresh oranges with a light, cloud-like texture for a dessert that feels both refreshing and indulgent.

• 2 large oranges (juiced and zested)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon gelatin powder
• Pinch of salt

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	5 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes

Context: This easy orange mousse recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, thanks to its simplified method and minimal chilling time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Gelatin

Sprinkle one packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) of unflavored powdered gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold orange juice in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the granules swell and become spongy. This process, called blooming, is crucial for smooth texture in your Easy Orange Mousse Recipe.

Step 2 — Dissolve the Gelatin

Gently heat the bloomed gelatin mixture. You can do this by placing the bowl over a small pot of simmering water (a double boiler method) or microwaving it in 10-second bursts. Heat just until the mixture becomes a clear liquid, stirring constantly. Do not let it boil.

Step 3 — Combine Citrus Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining 3/4 cup of fresh orange juice, the zest of one orange, and 1/3 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk until the sugar begins to dissolve. Slowly stream in the warm, liquid gelatin while whisking continuously to ensure it incorporates evenly without clumping.

Step 4 — Whip the Cream

In a separate chilled bowl, use an electric mixer to whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream to medium-stiff peaks. The cream should hold its shape when the beaters are lifted. For best results, ensure both the cream and bowl are very cold. Do not over-whip, or the texture will become grainy.

Step 5 — Fold Everything Together

Add about one-third of the whipped cream to the orange juice mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold gently—this lightens the base. Then, carefully fold in the remaining whipped cream until no white streaks remain. Be gentle to maintain the airy volume crucial for a light mousse.

Step 6 — Chill and Set

Divide the mousse mixture among serving glasses or ramekins. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. The mousse is properly set when it jiggles slightly but holds its shape firmly when the dish is tilted.

Step 7 — Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, garnish your Easy Orange Mousse with fresh orange segments, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of zest. For optimal flavor, let the mousse sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~285 kcal
Protein	~4g
Carbohydrates	~28g
Fat	~18g
Fiber	~1g
Sodium	~55mg

This Easy Orange Mousse Recipe is a good source of vitamin C from the fresh orange juice and zest. The nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredients and a single serving.

Healthier Alternatives

This easy orange mousse recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple ingredient swaps to tailor it to your dietary needs without sacrificing the bright, creamy texture.

• Greek Yogurt for Heavy Cream — Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a protein boost and a pleasantly tangy note that complements the orange.
• Coconut Cream for Dairy — For a rich, dairy-free version, chill a can of full-fat coconut milk and use the solid cream on top. It adds a subtle tropical nuance.
• Monk Fruit or Erythritol for Sugar — Swap granulated sugar with a powdered keto-friendly sweetener to create a lower-carb orange mousse.
• Avocado for a Nutrient Boost — Blend in half a ripe avocado with the orange mixture. It creates an ultra-creamy texture and adds healthy fats.
• Aquafaba for Egg Whites — For an egg-free mousse, whip the brine from a can of chickpeas (aquafaba) to stiff peaks and fold it in. It’s a great gluten-free and vegan alternative.
• Fresh Orange Zest Only — Omit any added salt in the recipe and rely solely on fresh orange zest and juice for vibrant, low-sodium flavor.
• Silken Tofu for a Protein Base — Blend soft silken tofu with the orange flavorings for a high-protein, dairy-free mousse with a very smooth, light consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This light and airy Easy Orange Mousse Recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ideas for pairings, occasions, and presentation to make it shine.

• Perfect Pairings: Serve alongside a crisp almond biscotti for dipping, or with a simple, buttery shortbread cookie. For a contrast in texture, a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or toasted coconut adds a delightful crunch.
• Elegant Occasions: This mousse is ideal for a light dessert after a rich meal, a refreshing finish to a summer barbecue, or as a bright component on a holiday dessert table. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead option for dinner parties.
• Plating with Pizzazz: For a restaurant-style look, pipe the mousse into elegant glasses or small mason jars. Garnish with a twist of orange zest, a thin orange slice, or a fresh mint leaf just before serving.
• Flavor Twists: Add a layer of raspberry or berry compote at the bottom of the glass for a beautiful and tasty surprise. A drizzle of dark chocolate sauce on top creates a classic chocolate-orange combination.
• For a Crowd: Consider setting up a “mousse bar” with various toppings like whipped cream, citrus segments, and different cookie crumbles so guests can customize their dessert.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Easy Orange Mousse Recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavor and creamy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using the wrong type of orange juice, like from concentrate, which can taste artificial. Fix: Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest, most authentic flavor in your Easy Orange Mousse Recipe.
• Mistake: Not properly dissolving the gelatin, leading to a lumpy or rubbery texture. Fix: Bloom the gelatin in cold liquid first, then dissolve it completely over low heat or in a warm liquid base.
• Mistake: Over-whipping the cream, which makes it grainy and difficult to fold in smoothly. Fix: Whip the heavy cream only to soft peaks; it should still be slightly pourable for the easiest folding.
• Mistake: Folding the whipped cream into the orange base too aggressively, deflating the air. Fix:
  Use a gentle, wide, sweeping motion with a spatula to maintain the mousse’s light and airy structure.
• Mistake: Adding hot orange mixture directly to whipped cream, which will melt it. Fix: Ensure the gelatin-orange base has cooled to room temperature but is not yet set before folding.
• Mistake: Skipping the chill time for the mousse cups or glasses before serving. Fix: Chill the serving vessels for 15 minutes first; this helps the mousse set more evenly and quickly.
• Mistake: Not tasting the orange mixture before folding, resulting in a bland mousse. Fix: Adjust the sweetness and orange zest after the gelatin is dissolved but before adding the cream.
• Mistake: Rushing the setting process by putting the mousse in the freezer. Fix: Allow the mousse to set slowly in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours for the perfect creamy texture.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Easy Orange Mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s covered to prevent it from absorbing other flavors.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mousse in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheat: This Easy Orange Mousse is a chilled dessert and is not meant to be reheated. For food safety, always keep it refrigerated below 40°F (4°C) until ready to serve.

The texture is best when served fresh, but following these tips will help maintain its light and airy quality.

Conclusion

This Easy Orange Mousse Recipe is a light, refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. If you love citrus treats, you might also enjoy our Irresistible Orange Almond Cake Recipe or Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe. Give this mousse a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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• Author: Olivia Bennett

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large oranges (juiced and zested)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon gelatin powder
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. Make the Orange Mixture: Combine orange juice, zest, and sugar in a saucepan. Heat until dissolved, then remove from heat.
3. Incorporate the Eggs: Whisk eggs in a separate bowl, then gradually add the warm orange mixture. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened.
4. Add Gelatin: Stir in bloomed gelatin until dissolved. Let cool.
5. Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Fold into the orange mixture.
6. Chill the Mousse: Spoon into cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
7. Serve: Garnish with orange zest or whipped cream before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this Easy Orange Mousse Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this Easy Orange Mousse Recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to one day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and the mousse to set perfectly before serving.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh oranges?

You can use high-quality orange juice concentrate or bottled pure orange juice for convenience. For the best flavor in this Easy Orange Mousse Recipe, ensure any substitute is 100% juice without added sugar, as this can affect the mousse’s sweetness and texture.

How do I prevent the mousse from becoming grainy?

To ensure a smooth texture, fully dissolve the gelatin in the warm liquid before adding it to the mixture. Also, fold the whipped cream gently until just combined; overmixing can deflate the air and create a denser, less silky mousse.