Spring beckons with vibrant flavors and lighter fare, making it the perfect season to indulge in desserts that embody the essence of freshness and zest. One such delightful dessert is the Lemon Cheesecake Mousse, a fusion of tangy lemon, creamy cheesecake, and the airy texture of mousse. This recipe, from the culinary blog Cooking Classy, offers a symphony of flavors wrapped in a dessert that’s both sophisticated and simple to make.
Ingredients:
To recreate this luscious dessert, you’ll need:
For the Crust:
- 3/4 cup crushed graham crackers (about 6 full sheets)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons salted butter, melted
For the Mousse:
- 2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar, divided
- Yellow food coloring (optional)
- 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10 oz) jar lemon curd (tested with Dickinson’s)
- Sweetened whipped cream, lemon wedges, blueberries, and mint for garnish (optional)
Direction and Preparation Method:
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, whisk together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until evenly moistened. Divide the mixture among 8 – 10 dessert cups and press into an even layer. Set aside.
- Gelatin Mixture: In a small bowl, combine lemon juice and water. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the top and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Whip the Cream: In a medium mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add in 1/3 cup of the powdered sugar (and a tint of yellow food coloring if desired) and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
- Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Mix in lemon curd and the remaining 2/3 cup powdered sugar.
- Combine Gelatin and Cheese Mixture: Heat the rested gelatin mixture in the microwave for 30 seconds. Whisk to fully dissolve the gelatin, then let cool for 3 minutes. Slowly pour the gelatin mixture into the cream cheese mixture, blending until thoroughly combined.
- Final Mixing: Gently fold 1/3 of the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture to lighten it, then add the remaining whipped cream and gently fold until combined.
- Assemble: Spoon or pipe the mousse over the graham cracker layer in the dessert cups. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours (or up to 1 day ahead if desired) to set. Garnish as desired before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This cheesecake lemon mousse is best served cold, making it a refreshing choice for spring and summer gatherings. Garnish with sweetened whipped cream, lemon wedges, fresh berries, and mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance.
The Joy of Seasonal Ingredients
Embracing the seasonal bounty can elevate the Lemon Cheesecake Mousse from delightful to extraordinary. The zest and juice of in-season lemons add an unmatched freshness that bottled alternatives cannot replicate. Spring and early summer are the perfect times to source these citrus gems at their peak of flavor. Incorporating fresh, local produce not only supports sustainable practices but also ensures that each bite of this mousse carries the vibrant essence of the season. This approach to cooking and baking encourages us to connect with our food on a deeper level, appreciating the natural cycles that make such flavors possible.
A Dessert for Every Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family dinner, an elegant bridal shower, or a sunny picnic, the Lemon Cheesecake Mousse seamlessly fits into any event’s theme. Its bright, cheerful color and light, fluffy texture make it an appealing choice for a variety of settings. For more formal gatherings, consider serving it in individual glass cups for a touch of sophistication. For casual events, larger, shareable bowls encourage a communal dining experience. This dessert’s flexibility in presentation ensures it can adapt to the mood and style of any celebration, making it a reliable and cherished recipe in your repertoire.
Conclusion:
The Lemon Cheesecake Mousse is a testament to the joy of spring desserts. Light yet indulgent, it combines the best of cheesecake and mousse in a delightful citrusy treat. Whether for Easter, Mother’s Day, or simply as a weekend treat, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and add a touch of sophistication to your dessert table.