If there’s one treat that captures the essence of sunny days in every spoonful, it’s Easy Lemon Mousse. This delightful, airy dessert pairs zesty citrus flavor with luscious creaminess, creating a treat that feels sophisticated yet is truly achievable in your own kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few easy steps, you’ll be able to whip up a refreshing mousse that brightens any gathering or quiet evening at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the Mousse:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional for Garnish:
- Extra lemon zest
- Whipped cream
How to Make Easy Lemon Mousse
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start by grabbing your cold heavy cream and a chilled mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, whip the cream on high speed until stiff peaks form. This is what gives Easy Lemon Mousse its signature lightness, so take your time—watch for the cream to hold its shape when you lift up the beaters.
Step 2: Blend the Lemon Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is perfectly smooth, with no streaks of condensed milk hiding at the bottom. The combination of lemon juice and zest creates a fragrant, tangy base that’s irresistible even before you add the cream.
Step 3: Fold Together Gently
Now, gently introduce your fluffy whipped cream to the citrus mixture. Do this in three parts, using a spatula and soft folding motions so you don’t lose any precious air. This technique keeps your Easy Lemon Mousse super light—just the way it should be.
Step 4: Spoon and Chill
Spoon or pipe the mousse into individual serving glasses or bowls. Cover each portion and pop them in the fridge for at least an hour. For an even firmer, silkier result, chill for four hours or overnight. This resting time gives the mousse its signature velvety texture, allowing all the flavors to mingle beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, add a swirl of whipped cream or a sprinkle of lemon zest to each dessert. It’s a simple touch that transforms your Easy Lemon Mousse into a bakery-worthy finish—absolutely lovely!
How to Serve Easy Lemon Mousse
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing Easy Lemon Mousse, a little bit goes a long way. Top with an elegant dollop of whipped cream or a delicate pinch of extra lemon zest. You might also try a single, thin slice of fresh lemon or even a sprig of mint for a pop of color. Each garnish not only looks beautiful but also hints at the vibrant flavors tucked inside.
Side Dishes
This mousse is a star all on its own, but you can make any dessert spread feel complete by pairing it with crisp butter cookies, biscotti, or delicate tea biscuits. For a lively summer table, try serving with fresh berries or a cool fruit salad—the tartness complements the sweet, creamy mousse so nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Part of the magic of Easy Lemon Mousse is how effortlessly it dresses up or down. Try layering it in parfait glasses with crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies for a playful, textural twist. Want something truly elegant? Pipe the mousse into tiny espresso cups or vintage wine glasses for delightful single-serve portions at a brunch or party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Easy Lemon Mousse, store it covered in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to three days, maintaining that signature airy texture and tangy flavor. Just refrigerate immediately after serving to keep it as fresh as possible.
Freezing
Easy Lemon Mousse can be frozen for longer storage—just scoop into an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. For the best creamy consistency, let thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. The mousse may firm up a bit, making it almost like a frozen lemon parfait.
Reheating
Good news: there’s no need to reheat Easy Lemon Mousse! This dessert is meant to be chilled and enjoyed straight from the fridge. If your mousse was frozen, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator before sampling its cool, dreamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice gives the mousse its vibrant, natural flavor. While bottled juice can work in a pinch, you won’t get that same lively zing and brightness. For the most memorable Easy Lemon Mousse, squeeze the lemons yourself.
Can I make Easy Lemon Mousse dairy-free?
Absolutely! Try coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk. The method stays the same, and the coconut adds a lovely tropical note to the citrusy mousse.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead?
Yes—this no-cook dessert actually gets better after chilling, so go ahead and make it a day in advance. The flavors will meld, and the mousse will firm up beautifully, making Easy Lemon Mousse perfect for dinner parties or gatherings.
What can I do if my mousse doesn’t set?
If your mousse seems a bit loose, chill it longer—overnight works wonders. Also, make sure your cream is whipped to stiff peaks before folding, since this is what thickens and stabilizes the dessert.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Get creative! Fold in a handful of fresh berries, swirl in raspberry puree, or add crushed cookies for a parfait effect. Just remember, the lemon flavor is the real star of Easy Lemon Mousse, so let it shine.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistible about a dessert that manages to be both elegant and effortless. Easy Lemon Mousse checks every box: it’s bright, creamy, and revitalizing, all without hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that anyone can make, give this mousse a whirl—it’s sure to become a favorite for every season!
Print
Easy Lemon Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Lemon Mousse recipe is a delightful, light dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a creamy texture and a burst of fresh lemon flavor, this no-bake treat is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Mousse:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional for Garnish:
- Extra lemon zest
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Whip the Heavy Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Prepare the Lemon Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture in three parts, keeping the texture light and airy.
- Fill and Chill: Spoon or pipe the mousse into serving glasses. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with whipped cream or lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- For a firmer texture, chill the mousse for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Try layering with graham crackers or fresh berries for a parfait-style dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 1/2 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
