Description
This Easy Lemon Mousse is a light, airy dessert bursting with fresh citrus flavor. Made with whipped cream, fresh lemon juice, zest, and a touch of vanilla, it’s a refreshing treat that sets in the fridge for a creamy, tangy finish. Perfect for summertime or any occasion when you want a quick, elegant dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Mousse
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to whip the chilled heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. This creates the base for the mousse’s light and airy texture.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, or the cream may become grainy or start turning into butter.
- Mix Lemon Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. This mixture will provide the citrus flavor and aroma that defines the mousse.
- Fold Lemon Mixture In: Gently fold the lemon juice mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Fold carefully to incorporate fully while preserving the mousse’s fluffy texture.
- Portion the Mousse: Spoon the lemon mousse evenly into serving glasses or bowls and smooth the tops with the back of a spoon or spatula for presentation.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the mousse for at least 2 hours. Chilling lets the flavors meld and the mousse firm up to a smooth, spoonable consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with additional lemon zest, a fresh sprig of mint, or a thin lemon slice to add a decorative and aromatic touch.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best, brightest flavor.
- Be sure the heavy cream is well chilled before whipping to achieve maximum volume.
- Folding the lemon mixture gently preserves the whipped cream’s airy texture.
- Prepare the mousse a few hours in advance to allow it to fully set and chill thoroughly.
- This mousse is best served within 24 hours of preparation for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
