Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ cup crushed graham crackers (optional)
- Fresh berries for garnish (optional)
- Lemon slices or zest for decoration
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Place the softened cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Continue mixing until everything is fully combined.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate chilled bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream and add the powdered sugar. Beat until stiff peaks form. The whipped cream should be thick and fluffy but not overmixed.
Step 3: Fold Together
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in three additions. Fold carefully to keep the mousse light and airy.
Step 4: Assemble
Divide the mousse evenly among serving glasses or dessert bowls. If desired, sprinkle crushed graham crackers on the bottom or between layers to create a cheesecake-style crust.
Step 5: Chill
Cover the glasses with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling allows the mousse to firm up and the flavors to develop.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, decorate with whipped cream, fresh berries, lemon zest, lemon slices, or additional graham cracker crumbs. Serve chilled.
Recipe Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften before mixing to prevent lumps.
- Fold the whipped cream gently to maintain a light texture.
- Chill overnight for an even richer flavor.
- Add blueberries or raspberries for extra color and sweetness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Variations
For a sweeter dessert, add white chocolate to the cream cheese mixture. For extra crunch, fold crushed digestive biscuits into the mousse. You can also make a lighter version using reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping. For a tropical twist, add a little shredded coconut or garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lemon Cheesecake Mousse after grilled meals, summer barbecues, holiday dinners, or afternoon tea. Pair it with iced tea, coffee, sparkling lemonade, or fresh fruit. Individual dessert glasses make it especially attractive for parties and special occasions.
Storage
Keep the mousse refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, as freezing may affect the creamy texture. Garnish just before serving for the freshest presentation.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 17 g
- Vitamin C: 10% Daily Value
- Calcium: 8% Daily Value