When the summer sun is shining, and the air is filled with the sweet scent of tropical fruit, nothing quite hits the spot like a luscious Mango Mousse Cake. This delightful dessert transports me to sun-drenched beaches with each creamy, fruity bite. The combination of airy mousse and a light cake base creates a dessert that is both indulgent yet surprisingly light—perfect for those hot days or special gatherings.
I remember the first time I served this cake to friends; their delighted reactions were worth every minute spent in the kitchen. It’s a wonderful twist on the traditional mousse, offering a vibrant pop of mango flavor that makes it feel both special and approachable. With a relatively simple preparation process, you’ll find it’s the perfect antidote to bland, fast-food desserts.
Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on impressing your loved ones with this showstopper! Let’s dive into the world of creamy mango goodness and elevate your dessert game.
Why is Mango Mousse Cake a must-try?
Decadent Delight: This Mango Mousse Cake is a tropical treat that’s like a little vacation on your plate!
Simple Steps: With straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a master baker to pull it off.
Fresh Fruit Flavor: The bright mango flavor shines through each layer, making every slice taste like sunshine.
Eye-Catching Presentation: Its beautiful layers make it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a special celebration, this dessert is sure to wow your guests.
Time to Chill: With a bit of prep, it sets in the fridge, freeing you up to enjoy your company!
This recipe creates an unforgettable dessert that can easily become a favorite in your home. Grab fresh mangoes and let the indulgence begin!
Mango Mousse Cake Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to this creamy, tropical delight!
For the Cake Base
- ¾ cup cake flour – A light flour that helps keep the cake airy.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Provides the necessary sweetness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This gives the cake its fluffy rise.
- 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt – Enhances the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tbsp cubed unsalted butter – Adds richness and texture to the cake.
- ¼ cup sour cream – Keeps the cake moist and introduces a slight tang.
- 1 tbsp canola or vegetable oil – Adds extra moisture and softens the crumb.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cake’s structure.
- ¼ cup whole milk – Ensures a tender, moist cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, sweet aroma.
For the Mousse
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream – Whipped to soft peaks for a light and fluffy texture.
- ½ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the mousse without adding grittiness.
- 4 cups frozen or fresh cubed mango – The star ingredient that delivers rich tropical flavor.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar – Enhances the mango sweetness while cooking.
- 1 tsp lemon juice – Brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness.
For the Gelatin
- 2 tsp unflavored gelatin – Sets the mousse and gives it structure.
- 1 tbsp cold water – Blooms the gelatin for smooth integration into the mousse.
Now that you have all the delicious ingredients prepped, get ready to experience the joy of creating your very own Mango Mousse Cake!
How to Make Mango Mousse Cake
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Prepare the Pan: Line the bottom of an 8″ springform pan with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This helps ensure a clean release for the cake later on.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the texture resembles coarse sand—this is the base of your light cake!
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Create the Batter: Mix in the sour cream and oil until you achieve a paste-like consistency, about 30 seconds. Then, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla in a separate bowl and gradually pour it into the mixture on low speed until just combined. Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
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Bake the Cake: Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Once baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack. Remember to run an offset spatula around the sides before unlocking the pan for easy removal.
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Prepare for Mousse: Clean the sides of the pan to prevent sticking when serving, then place the sides back and lock it. This keeps your cake intact and ready for the mousse layer.
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Whip Cream: In a stand mixing bowl, whisk the heavy cream and powdered sugar on high speed until soft peaks form. Transfer to a large bowl and refrigerate until you are ready to fold it into the mango puree.
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Cook Mango: In a small pot, combine the mango, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the mango is softened. Use a blender to blend until smooth, yielding about 2 ⅓ cups of luscious puree.
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Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1 tbsp of cold water and let it bloom for 1 minute. Stir it into the warm mango puree, and heat gently while stirring until fully dissolved. Place the pot in an ice bath for 7-10 minutes to cool it down without letting it get too cold.
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Combine Mousse: Reserve 1/3 cup of the mango puree and set it aside for later. Gently fold the rest of the mango puree into the whipped cream until combined and smooth. Spread this delightful mousse layer generously on top of the cooled cake.
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Finish Mousse Layers: Take half of the reserved mango puree and spread it on top of the mousse, then add the remaining mousse layer. Dollop the last bit of puree over the top and use a toothpick to swirl it gently into the mousse for a beautiful finish. Chill the cake in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours to set perfectly.
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Serve with Love: To release from the springform pan, carefully run a small offset spatula along the top edge of the mousse. Unlock the sides and lift. Transfer to a serving plate, cut into slices, and watch everyone delight in your creation!
Optional: Garnish with fresh mango slices or mint leaves for a lovely touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mango Mousse Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising on taste! You can make the cake base up to 24 hours in advance—simply bake it, allow it to cool, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The mango puree can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just ensure it’s in an airtight container to maintain that vibrant flavor. When you’re ready to serve, whip the cream and fold it into the mango puree before spreading it on the cake. This allows you to have a delicious, tropical dessert waiting for you with minimal last-minute effort, making it just as delightful for your guests!
How to Store and Freeze Mango Mousse Cake
Fridge: Store the Mango Mousse Cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the assembled cake for up to 1 month. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen cake, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw. This gradual process helps preserve the mousse’s texture.
Reheating: While this cake is best served chilled, you can enjoy it straight from the fridge. If chilled too long, bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
What to Serve with Mango Mousse Cake?
When it comes to complementing this delightful creation, consider various textures and flavors to craft a memorable meal.
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Coconut Rice: This fragrant side dish brings a creamy texture that beautifully enhances the tropical vibes of the mousse cake. The subtle sweetness and nuttiness of coconut will echo the flavors in your dessert.
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Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh pineapple, kiwi, and strawberries brightens up your plate. The juicy, crisp bites offer a refreshing contrast to the smooth, rich mousse, making each forkful a delight.
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Lime Sorbet: The zesty, icy sorbet’s tartness cuts through the sweetness of the mousse, providing a perfect palate cleanser between bites. It’s like bringing a burst of sunshine to your dessert.
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Minty Green Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad brings a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the creamy cake. The mint adds a delightful brightness, elevating your dining experience.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A glass of sparkling water with a twist of lime can elegantly accompany your dessert. It’s a bubbly, refreshing option that enhances the fruity notes of the mango.
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Chocolate Espresso Tart: For those who crave a decadent contrast, a rich dark chocolate tart introduces an indulgent element to your meal. The deep flavors play off the fruity lightness of the mousse cake perfectly.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: If you’re looking to double down on indulgence, a dollop of sweetened coconut cream brings a creamy, dreamy touch that pairs seamlessly with your mango mousse.
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Pineapple Upside-down Cake: This dessert is a classic partner for tropical flavors. The caramelized topping adds an extra layer of sweetness, playing off the mango’s tang.
Each pairing offers a delicious complement to your Mango Mousse Cake, ensuring a delightful dining experience filled with vibrant flavors and textures.
Mango Mousse Cake Variations
Feel inspired to make this delightful dessert your own with some fun twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy whipping cream; it adds a delightful tropical flavor while keeping it creamy.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of cake flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities. You won’t miss the texture!
- Fruit Fusion: Experiment with different fruits like passion fruit or pineapple to create an exciting new flavor profile in your mousse.
- Citrus Zing: Add zest from a lime or orange to the mango puree for an extra burst of citrus brightness—a refreshing twist!
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in a drizzle of melted dark chocolate into the mousse for a decadent chocolate-mango combination—pure bliss!
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mousse.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the fruit mixture for a subtle spicy kick. This will surprise your taste buds!
- Layered Delectable: Alternate layers of mousse with a layer of whipped coconut cream between the cake layers for an elevated texture and taste.
Embrace the joy of experimentation, and let your Mango Mousse Cake reflect your personal touch!
Expert Tips for Mango Mousse Cake
- Use Fresh Mango: Opt for ripe, fresh mango for a richer flavor—frozen mango can be used, but fresh delivers a brighter taste.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold your ingredients to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can result in a tougher texture!
- Gelatin is Key: Make sure to let the gelatin fully dissolve in the mango puree. Undissolved gelatin can create an uneven mousse.
- Chill Time Matters: Allow the cake to chill for at least 3-4 hours or overnight for the best texture. Patience pays off in a perfectly set mango mousse layer!
- Layering Technique: For beautiful presentation, create distinct layers by spreading mousse gently; this helps the colors pop in your Mango Mousse Cake.
Mango Mousse Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe mangoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting mangoes, look for ones that have a slight give when gently squeezed and are aromatic at the stem end. The skin may have a mix of green and golden yellow colors, with some blemishes being perfectly normal—especially if they are fully ripe! Avoid mangoes that have dark spots all over, as that may indicate overripeness.
How should I store the Mango Mousse Cake?
To store your lovely Mango Mousse Cake, place it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh. This will help preserve the texture of the mousse while blocking out any odors from other foods.
Can I freeze Mango Mousse Cake?
Very! To freeze, wrap the assembled Mango Mousse Cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Just remember, it’s best to let the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight for a smooth texture upon serving.
What if my mousse doesn’t set properly?
If your mousse doesn’t set as expected, there might be two main reasons: the gelatin wasn’t fully dissolved or the mixture was overmixed. For best results, after blooming the gelatin, ensure you stir it gently into warm mango puree until fully dissolved. When combining with whipped cream, fold gently to maintain that airy texture!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Definitely! For those with allergies, ensure you’re using gluten-free cake flour if necessary. Additionally, check if your whipped cream has any added ingredients that may not align with your dietary needs. If serving to pets, know that mango is safe for dogs in moderation, but avoid giving them the cake itself due to sugars and other ingredients.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes, you can adapt the Mango Mousse Cake for a vegan option! Substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mix, the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream, and use dairy-free sour cream to match the original recipe’s moisture and flavor. Make sure you’re using a suitable gelatin alternative, like agar-agar, to set the mousse!
Irresistible Mango Mousse Cake You’ll Want to Make Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Pan: Line the bottom of an 8" springform pan with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This helps ensure a clean release for the cake later on.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the texture resembles coarse sand—this is the base of your light cake!
- Create the Batter: Mix in the sour cream and oil until you achieve a paste-like consistency, about 30 seconds. Then, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla in a separate bowl and gradually pour it into the mixture on low speed until just combined. Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
- Bake the Cake: Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Once baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack. Remember to run an offset spatula around the sides before unlocking the pan for easy removal.
- Prepare for Mousse: Clean the sides of the pan to prevent sticking when serving, then place the sides back and lock it. This keeps your cake intact and ready for the mousse layer.
- Whip Cream: In a stand mixing bowl, whisk the heavy cream and powdered sugar on high speed until soft peaks form. Transfer to a large bowl and refrigerate until you are ready to fold it into the mango puree.
- Cook Mango: In a small pot, combine the mango, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the mango is softened. Use a blender to blend until smooth, yielding about 2 ⅓ cups of luscious puree.
- Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1 tbsp of cold water and let it bloom for 1 minute. Stir it into the warm mango puree, and heat gently while stirring until fully dissolved. Place the pot in an ice bath for 7-10 minutes to cool it down without letting it get too cold.
- Combine Mousse: Reserve 1/3 cup of the mango puree and set it aside for later. Gently fold the rest of the mango puree into the whipped cream until combined and smooth. Spread this delightful mousse layer generously on top of the cooled cake.
- Finish Mousse Layers: Take half of the reserved mango puree and spread it on top of the mousse, then add the remaining mousse layer. Dollop the last bit of puree over the top and use a toothpick to swirl it gently into the mousse for a beautiful finish. Chill the cake in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours to set perfectly.
- Serve with Love: To release from the springform pan, carefully run a small offset spatula along the top edge of the mousse. Unlock the sides and lift. Transfer to a serving plate, cut into slices, and watch everyone delight in your creation!