Basic lemon lime mousse

Basic lemon lime mousse is a light and refreshing dessert featuring zesty lemon and lime flavors and a smooth, airy texture. This simple recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light finale to any meal.

19 Dec 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 35 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp gelatin powder
4 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lime zest
1/3 cup lemon juice
1/3 cup lime juice
1.50 cups heavy whipping cream

Lemon lime mousse is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and lime with the smooth, airy texture of a classic mousse. Perfect for warm weather or as a light finish to any meal, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress your guests. Let's dive into the steps and tips needed to create this scrumptious treat.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Gelatin:
- Sprinkle the gelatin powder into 3 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.

2. Separate Eggs:
- Carefully separate the egg yolks from the egg whites into two bowls. Set both aside.

3. Heat Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the egg yolks, sugar, lemon zest, lime zest, lemon juice, and lime juice.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (this will take around 8-10 minutes). Do not allow it to boil.

4. Add Gelatin:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot mixture, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.

5. Beat Egg Whites:
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold them into the cooled lemon-lime mixture.

6. Whip the Cream:
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon-lime mixture until fully incorporated.

7. Chill:
- Transfer the mousse into serving dishes or a large bowl.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

8. Serve:
- Garnish with additional lemon or lime zest if desired.
- Enjoy your fresh and tangy Lemon Lime Mousse!

This basic lemon lime mousse is a harmonious blend of tangy citrus and creamy texture that is both refreshing and satisfying. By following these steps and handy tips, you'll create a dessert that's not only delicious but also visually appealing. Serve it chilled for the ultimate indulgence. Enjoy!

Basic lemon lime mousse FAQ:

How long should I chill the lemon lime mousse before serving?

Chill the mousse for at least 4 hours or until it is fully set. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to become firm.

What pan size should I use for serving the mousse?

You can serve the mousse in individual serving dishes or use a large bowl for a family-style presentation. The exact size is flexible as long as there’s enough room for the mousse to set.

Can I substitute the heavy whipping cream with a non-dairy alternative?

Yes, you can substitute heavy whipping cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or a vegan whipping cream. Ensure the substitute can whip to a stable consistency.

What should I do if the mousse doesn’t set properly?

If the mousse doesn’t set, it could be due to insufficient gelatin or not cooling the mixture adequately before folding in the whipped cream. Ensure the gelatin is properly bloomed and dissolved in the hot mixture.

Can I make this mousse ahead of time, and how should I store it?

Yes, you can make the mousse a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Tips:

- Ensure your mixing bowls and utensils are clean and dry before starting to avoid any contamination that could affect the texture of the mousse.

- Use fresh lemons and limes for zesting and juicing, as they provide the best flavor and most aromatic oils.

- When whipping the heavy cream, be careful not to overwhip it, as it can turn into butter. Stop once it forms soft peaks.

- To avoid lumps in your mousse, dissolve the gelatin powder thoroughly according to the package instructions before mixing it with other ingredients.

- For the best results, allow the mousse to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to set properly.

Nutrition per serving

10 Servings
Calories 210kcal
Protein 4.81g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 0.09g
Sugar 16g
Fat 15g

Basic lemon lime mousse