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Creamy Coconut Mousse with Whipped Topping and Garnishes Recipe

4.7 from 52 reviews

This creamy Coconut Mousse recipe combines the rich flavors of full-fat coconut milk, cream of coconut, and whipped cream, set with gelatin to create a light, airy dessert perfect for tropical-themed meals or any occasion. The mousse is chilled until set, offering a smooth, velvety texture with a hint of natural coconut sweetness, ideal for topping with fresh fruit or chocolate.

Ingredients

Scale

Gelatin Mixture

  • ¼ cup cold water
  • 1 ½ tablespoons powdered gelatin

Coconut Base

  • ¾ cup canned full-fat coconut milk
  • ¾ cup cream of coconut
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Whipped Cream

  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Mix gelatin: Pour the ¼ cup cold water into a small bowl, then sprinkle the 1 ½ tablespoons of powdered gelatin over it. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes to bloom the gelatin.
  2. Heat coconut mixture: In a small saucepan, combine ¾ cup full-fat canned coconut milk, ¾ cup cream of coconut, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Gently heat the mixture over medium-low heat until warm but not boiling.
  3. Combine gelatin and coconut: Add the bloomed gelatin to the warmed coconut mixture and stir continuously until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
  4. Whip cream: In a medium bowl, add 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, whip at medium speed until soft peaks form.
  5. Fold mixture: Gently fold the cooled coconut-gelatin mixture into the whipped cream, ensuring the mixture is well combined without deflating the airy texture.
  6. Chill: Pour the blended mousse mixture into small serving containers or jars. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
  7. Serve: Before serving, top the mousse with additional whipped cream and optional toppings such as chocolate shavings, fresh strawberries, or sugared lime zest for an extra burst of flavor and presentation appeal.

Notes

  • Ensure the coconut mixture is not too hot when adding gelatin to prevent breaking down the gelatin’s gelling properties.
  • For a firmer mousse, chill longer or add slightly more gelatin, adjusting carefully.
  • The cream of coconut used here is sweetened, different from coconut milk, providing sweetness and thickness.
  • If vegetarian gelatin alternatives are preferred, agar-agar can be used with modifications.
  • Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Keywords: coconut mousse, coconut dessert, gelatin mousse, creamy dessert, tropical dessert