Strawberry Pave

1. Prepare the Strawberry Mousse:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the fresh strawberries until smooth.
2. Transfer the strawberry puree to a saucepan, add sugar and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is slightly thickened.
3. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it sit for a few minutes to bloom.
4. Stir the bloomed gelatin into the warm strawberry mixture until fully dissolved. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
5. In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled strawberry mixture until well combined.

2. Assemble the Pave:

1. Line a rectangular or square mold with plastic wrap, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Place the sponge cake layer at the bottom of the mold.
3. Pour half of the strawberry mousse over the sponge cake, spreading it evenly.
4. Add another layer of sponge cake on top of the mousse.
5. Pour the remaining strawberry mousse over the second layer of sponge cake. Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Cover the mold with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the mousse sets.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Jelly (Optional):

1. If you want to add a jelly layer, dissolve gelatin in cold water and let it bloom.
2. Heat the strawberry jam in a saucepan until it becomes liquid.
3. Stir the bloomed gelatin into the warm strawberry jam until fully dissolved.
4. Allow the strawberry jelly to cool to room temperature.

4. Finish and Serve:

1. If using the strawberry jelly, pour it over the set mousse layer.
2. Refrigerate the pave for an additional 2-3 hours until fully set.
3. Once set, lift the Strawberry Pave out of the mold using the plastic wrap overhang.
4. Slice and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Pave!