When the sun is high and the heat is on, there’s nothing better than indulging in cool, citrusy summer desserts that melt in your mouth. This Easy Lemon Mousse Recipe is your go-to treat for picnics, dinner parties, or any warm-weather gathering. It’s light, fluffy, tangy, and comes together with minimal effort—no baking required!
Ingredients
To make this delightful lemon mousse, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
-
1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream – chilled
-
1/2 cup (120 ml) sweetened condensed milk
-
1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
-
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from organic lemons)
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
-
A pinch of salt
-
Optional garnish: Whipped cream, lemon slices, mint leaves, or crushed graham crackers
Required Kitchen Tools
While this recipe is simple, having the right tools makes it even easier:
-
Mixing bowls
-
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
-
Zester or microplane
-
Citrus juicer (manual or electric)
-
Rubber spatula
-
Serving glasses or dessert bowls
-
Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Whip the Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. This should take about 3–4 minutes on medium-high speed. Be careful not to overbeat.
2: Combine Lemon Base
In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. The mixture will begin to thicken slightly due to the acidity of the lemon juice.
3: Fold in Whipped Cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture using a rubber spatula. Do this in batches to maintain the airy texture. Continue folding until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
4: Chill
Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set. For best results, chill overnight.
5: Garnish & Serve
Before serving, garnish each portion with a dollop of whipped cream, a twist of lemon zest, and perhaps a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for texture.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Lemon Mousse
-
Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright, tangy flavor that fresh lemons provide.
-
Chill the cream and bowl: This helps the cream whip faster and stay stable longer.
-
Don’t skip the zest: It adds a deeper lemony aroma that elevates the dessert.
-
Make it ahead: This mousse can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal prepping summer desserts.
-
Serve frozen for a twist: Freeze the mousse for an hour before serving for a semi-frozen version that’s like a cross between mousse and sorbet.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving, based on 6 servings)
-
Calories: 220
-
Total Fat: 16g
-
Saturated Fat: 10g
-
Cholesterol: 55mg
-
Carbohydrates: 18g
-
Sugars: 16g
-
Protein: 3g
-
Fiber: 0g
-
Sodium: 50mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on brand and ingredient variations.
Why This Easy Lemon Mousse is a Perfect Summer Dessert
This recipe combines the zingy freshness of lemons with the rich smoothness of whipped cream, striking a perfect balance between sweet and tart. It requires no baking, which is a huge plus during the hot summer months. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for something light after a heavy meal, this lemon mousse is among the best summer desserts you can whip up in under 20 minutes of active time.
Conclusion: A Must-Try for Summer Sweet Lovers
If you’re looking for a cool, elegant, and simple way to wow your guests or treat yourself, this Easy Lemon Mousse Recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s no-fuss, make-ahead friendly, and fits perfectly into your summer dessert lineup. Try it once, and you’ll be making it all season long.
