Lemon Or Lime Mousse

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A light and creamy lemon or lime mousse with a tangy citrus flavor, perfect for a refreshing dessert that appeals to citrus lovers and those seeking a chilled treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
  • 1 teaspoon water
  • 1/3 cup lemon or lime juice
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup or less sugar

Instructions

  1. Whip the heavy cream and refrigerate.
  2. In a saucepan, soften the unflavored gelatin in water.
  3. Allow the gelatin to cool slightly.
  4. Add lemon or lime juice to the gelatin mixture.
  5. Beat eggs and sugar together until thick and lemon colored.
  6. Beat in the gelatin mixture into the egg mixture.
  7. Fold in half of the whipped cream, reserving the rest.
  8. Pour the mousse into glasses or a serving dish and chill.
  9. Garnish with the remaining whipped cream when set.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter mousse, consider using a combination of Greek yogurt and whipped cream. If you don't have unflavored gelatin, agar-agar can be a vegetarian substitute. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved for a smooth texture. For a sweeter option, use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar for better incorporation. This mousse pairs beautifully with Sweet Potato Drop Biscuits for a delightful dessert experience.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the mousse in individual glasses for an elegant presentation. It can be garnished with fresh fruit, a sprig of mint, or a drizzle of citrus syrup for extra flair. This dessert is light enough to follow a hearty meal, such as a roasted chicken or pasta dish. For a unique twist, pair it with a slice of Pound Cake With Apples for a complementary flavor contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the mousse separates slightly, simply gently stir it before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture. Serve chilled for the best flavor and consistency, and consider topping with fresh berries for added freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemon Or Lime Mousse contains roughly 98 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value).

98 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.7g 3% DV
Total Fat 1.4g 2% DV
Carbs 21.5g 8% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 40.9mg 2% DV
Potassium 364.9mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 35.3mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 11.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1.5mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 60.6mg 5% DV
Iron 3.5mg 20% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled lemon or lime juice instead of fresh?

Yes, bottled lemon or lime juice can be used, but fresh juice will yield a brighter flavor. If using bottled juice, ensure it's 100% pure for the best results. Adjust the sugar to taste, as some bottled juices may contain added sugars.

How can I make this mousse vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and use a plant-based cream. Replace gelatin with agar-agar, following package instructions for setting. The flavor will remain bright and refreshing, perfect for vegan desserts.

What can I do if my mousse doesn't set properly?

If your mousse isn't setting, it could be due to insufficient gelatin or not allowing it to cool adequately before mixing. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved and try refrigerating it longer. You can also whip the cream more to add volume, which helps with setting.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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