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Pink Grapefruit Mousse Tartlets with Grapefruit Flavor Extract – Zesty & Silky Dessert
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Grapefruit
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
8
Prep Time
135 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
These Pink Grapefruit Mousse Tartlets are bright, airy, and stunningly elegant—elevated by the clean, refreshing zing of pink grapefruit flavor extract. A crisp cookie crust provides a satisfying base for a light, velvety mousse made with cream, juice, and a kiss of extract. Quick to assemble, light to eat, and visually gorgeous—these treats bring sophisticated citrus charm to any dessert table.
Ingredients
Crust:
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1 cup (120 g) graham cracker or shortbread crumbs
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3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter, melted
Mousse Filling:
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½ cup (120 ml) freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice (strained)
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1 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust based on tartness)
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1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
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1 tbsp powdered sugar
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¼ to ½ tsp pink grapefruit flavor extract—adjust to taste for a balanced aroma (concentrated flavor)
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1 tsp gelatin (+ 2 tbsp water) or agar-agar equivalent
Garnish (Optional):
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Thin grapefruit zest curls
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Edible flowers or mint leaves for color contrast
Directions
Prep the crust. Combine crumbs with melted butter; press into mini tart pans or a muffin tin; chill briefly to set.
Bloom gelatin. Sprinkle gelatin over 2 tbsp cold water; set aside until softened.
Heat grapefruit base. Gently warm grapefruit juice with granulated sugar in a small saucepan until sugar dissolves.
Infuse flavor and set. Remove from heat; whisk in the bloomed gelatin and pink grapefruit extract thoroughly until dissolved
Whip the cream. Meanwhile, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Combine mousse. Chill the grapefruit mixture slightly, then fold it gently into the whipped cream to keep it light and airy.
Assemble and chill. Spoon the mousse into prepared crusts, smoothing the surface. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
Garnish & serve. Just before serving, top with grapefruit zest curls, edible flowers, or mint for a bright, elegant finish.
Recipe Note
10 FAQs About This Recipe
How strong is the grapefruit extract and how much should I use?
It’s highly concentrated—start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust up to ½ teaspoon based on personal preference.
Does the extract affect texture or sweetness?
No—it enhances aroma and flavor without altering mousse texture or sweetness.
Can I make tartlets dairy-free?
Yes—substitute coconut cream and use agar-agar to mimic mousse structure.
Can I substitute extract with fresh juice?
Fresh juice adds flavor but extract brings intense aroma; using both provides better depth.
How long can I store tartlets?
Covered and refrigerated, they stay fresh for 2–3 days; garnish just before serving.
Is freezing recommended?
Not ideal—the mousse texture may become grainy when frozen and thawed.
Can I prep these ahead for an event?
Absolutely—make the day before, keep chilled, and garnish before serving for best results.
What’s a good garnish suggestion?
Besides zest or mint, a thin grapefruit slice or candied peel adds elegance and flavor contrast.
Can extract go into baked goods or drinks too?
Yes—the extract works beautifully in cocktails, glazes, frostings, and baked goods. Recommended usage is 0.25% to 4% of the recipe by volume.
Is the extract allergen-free?
Most high-quality extracts are certified vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and made with organic ingredients.