Description
This Zesty Lime Mousse Cheesecake is a refreshing no-bake dessert combining a crisp graham cracker crust with a light, airy lime-flavored mousse filling. Perfectly tangy with fresh lime juice and zest, it’s an ideal treat for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a bright, creamy dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Lime Mousse Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Zest of 2 limes
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin (or 1 tbsp agar-agar powder)
- 2 tbsp warm water
For Garnish
- Fresh lime slices
- Lime zest
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Make the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, mixing well. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes until firm and golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
- Prepare the Lime Mousse Filling: In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin (or agar-agar) in warm water and set aside to bloom. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. Add the lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and mix until fully combined. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep it airy. Microwave the bloomed gelatin for 10-15 seconds until fully dissolved, then stir it evenly into the mousse mixture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the lime mousse filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to allow it to fully set; overnight chilling is ideal for best texture.
- Serve and Garnish: Once set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Garnish with fresh lime slices, additional lime zest, and whipped cream as desired. Slice and serve chilled to enjoy the bright, creamy flavors.
Notes
- Gelatin and agar-agar can be used interchangeably but agar-agar is a vegetarian alternative.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the mousse filling.
- For a more intense lime flavor, add extra lime zest or juice to taste.
- Chilling overnight improves the mousse texture and flavor melding.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
