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4-Ingredient Lemon Mousse

Updated on 5 min read

Quick Description

This 4-Ingredient Lemon Mousse is sunshine in a bowl! Bright, creamy, and irresistibly smooth, this light and refreshing dessert comes together in minutes. Perfect for those days when you need a sweet treat without the hassle, it’s the ultimate no-bake, easy-to-make dessert. The perfect balance of tart lemon and creamy texture makes it a crowd-pleaser every time!

Servings & Timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: ~20–25 minutes

Ingredients List

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for added flavor)

Instructions

1. Whip the Cream

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will give the mousse its fluffy, creamy texture.

2. Mix the Lemon and Sugar

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice and powdered sugar until fully dissolved.

3. Fold Everything Together

  • Gently fold the lemon-sugar mixture into the whipped cream, being careful not to deflate the cream. Add vanilla extract (if using) to enhance the flavor.

4. Chill

  • Spoon the mousse into serving bowls and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to allow it to set.

5. Serve & Enjoy

  • Serve chilled, optionally garnished with a slice of lemon, mint, or whipped cream.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 170–200
  • Carbohydrates: 8–10g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Fiber: 0g

(Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used)

Benefits

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes of prep, and only requires a short chilling time.
  • Refreshing & Light: Perfect for a light, refreshing dessert that won’t weigh you down.
  • Customizable: You can add fresh berries, a mint garnish, or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor.
  • Low-Sugar Option: You can use a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar version without compromising the flavor.

Additional Notes

  • Cream Tip: Use heavy cream for the best texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half and half, but the mousse won’t be as fluffy.
  • Lemon Tip: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key to getting the best tangy flavor! Bottled lemon juice can have a different taste.
  • Sweetener: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar depending on your sweetness preference. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.

Dietary Info

  • High-Protein: No
  • Low-Carb: Yes
  • Gluten-Free: Yes
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or a plant-based whipped cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Yes (with sugar substitutes)

Brief Introduction

This 4-Ingredient Lemon Mousse is the perfect balance of tart lemon and rich creaminess. It’s so easy to make and incredibly refreshing. Whether you need a quick dessert for a weeknight or a light treat to end a meal, this mousse will definitely hit the spot!

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

  1. Whip the cream: Beat heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
  2. Mix lemon & sugar: Combine lemon juice and powdered sugar.
  3. Fold together: Gently mix the lemon mixture into the whipped cream.
  4. Chill: Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes.
  5. Serve: Enjoy chilled with optional garnishes.

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Heavy Cream: For best results, use full-fat heavy cream for a rich, fluffy texture. You can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice works best for flavor, but bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.
  • Sweetener: Adjust sweetness with powdered sugar, or try a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit for a low-carb version.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Berry Lemon Mousse

Top with fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a fruity twist.

Lemon-Lime Mousse

Substitute half of the lemon juice with lime juice for a citrusy blend.

Lemon Coconut Mousse

Add a bit of shredded coconut to the mousse mixture for a tropical flavor.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with a fresh mint garnish for an added touch of color.
  • Pair with a cup of herbal tea for a light afternoon treat.
  • Enjoy with a slice of lemon or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Not recommended for freezing as the texture may change.
  • Reheat: Best served chilled, but you can let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes for easier scooping.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor for this mousse?
Yes, you can substitute the lemon juice with lime juice or any fruit puree, like strawberry or raspberry, for a different flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute coconut cream or any plant-based whipped cream for the heavy cream and dairy-free alternatives for the Cool Whip or yogurt.

Can I make this mousse in advance?
Yes, this mousse is perfect for making ahead! Just chill for 15-20 minutes before serving or store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Optional Personal Story

I created this Lemon Mousse when I wanted a refreshing, light dessert that didn’t take much time to make. It quickly became a family favorite and has since been a staple for both casual get-togethers and quick weeknight desserts. The simplicity and lightness make it perfect for warm days!

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