Zesty Lime Mousse Cheesecake

If you’re craving something that’s light, refreshing, and has just the right amount of zing, then this Zesty Lime Mousse Cheesecake is about to become your new favorite dessert. The tangy lime mousse perfectly balances the rich, creamy cheesecake base, all sitting on a buttery, crunchy graham cracker crust. It’s like the best of both worlds—cheesecake and mousse—coming together in one heavenly bite. And trust me, this dessert is the perfect way to end any meal. Its zesty lime flavor will have your taste buds dancing, and the creamy texture will leave you wanting more. Ready to treat yourself? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Zesty Lime Mousse Cheesecake

Creamy and Dreamy

The combination of smooth cheesecake and fluffy lime mousse is nothing short of dreamy. It’s indulgent yet refreshing, making it perfect for any occasion.

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tangy

The lime adds a delightful citrusy twist that cuts through the richness of the cheesecake, creating the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. It’s like a mini vacation for your taste buds.

Light and Refreshing

Despite being a cheesecake, this version is surprisingly light thanks to the mousse texture. It’s refreshing and not too heavy, making it a perfect dessert after a big meal.

Gorgeous Presentation

The vibrant lime mousse topping adds a pop of color to the dessert, making it as pretty as it is delicious. It’s perfect for serving at gatherings or celebrations when you want to impress your guests.

Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cheesecake comes together without too much fuss. Plus, it’s no-bake, so you won’t have to worry about the oven!

Ingredients in Zesty Lime Mousse Cheesecake

Here’s what makes this cheesecake so irresistibly good:

For the Crust:

• Graham Crackers: The classic choice for a crisp, buttery crust.
• Butter: To hold the graham crackers together and give the crust its rich, golden flavor.
• Sugar: A touch of sweetness for the crust, complementing the tangy filling.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream Cheese: The base of any cheesecake, making it creamy and rich.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: For extra creaminess and sweetness, with a subtle richness that works so well with lime.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds that zesty, citrus kick that makes this cheesecake stand out.
• Lime Zest: To intensify the lime flavor and add a bit of aromatic brightness.
• Gelatin: To help set the mousse, ensuring it stays light and fluffy.

For the Lime Mousse Topping:

• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this creates the perfect mousse texture.
• Powdered Sugar: To sweeten the whipped cream without weighing it down.
• Lime Zest: A little more zest on top adds visual appeal and reinforces the lime flavor.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s get started with creating this zesty, refreshing cheesecake!

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by crushing the graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can do this in a food processor or place them in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Once the crumbs are ready, mix them with melted butter and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Chill in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to set.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest, and continue to mix until well combined. Dissolve the gelatin in a little water according to the package instructions, then add it to the mixture. Stir until everything is perfectly blended. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust and smooth the top. Chill in the fridge for about 2-3 hours to set.

Step 3: Prepare the Lime Mousse

Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold in some lime zest to add extra zing. Once the cheesecake has set, spread the lime mousse over the top of the cheesecake layer, creating a light and airy topping.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Let the cheesecake chill for another hour or so, allowing the mousse to firm up. When ready, carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice it up, and serve it chilled. Garnish with extra lime zest for a touch of flair and an extra burst of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 24g
Protein: 4g
Vitamin A: 12%
Vitamin C: 10%
Calcium: 10%
Iron: 4%
Potassium: 150mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 3-4 hours
Total Time: 4-4.5 hours

How to Serve Zesty Lime Mousse Cheesecake

This cheesecake is perfect on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your experience:

Fresh Fruit

Top your cheesecake with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast that complements the lime’s tartness.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of extra whipped cream on top of each slice adds an extra touch of indulgence.

Lime Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, garnish with fresh lime slices or a sprinkle of extra lime zest.

With a Drink

Pair it with a cold glass of iced tea, sparkling water with a lime wedge, or even a margarita for a festive twist.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Limes

For the best flavor, always use fresh lime juice and zest. Bottled lime juice doesn’t have the same vibrant flavor as fresh limes.

Make It in Individual Servings

If you prefer, you can make individual servings in small cups or jars for a fun, personalized presentation.

Top with Coconut

For a tropical twist, try topping your cheesecake with a sprinkle of shredded coconut to add texture and a hint of sweetness.

Keep it Chilled

This dessert is best served chilled, so keep it in the fridge until ready to serve, especially during warmer weather.

No-Bake Option

This recipe is no-bake, so you don’t have to worry about turning on the oven. Just allow enough time for chilling and setting.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lime?

A1: Yes! You can swap the lime for lemon, orange, or grapefruit for a different citrus flavor. Just keep in mind the sweetness or tartness of the fruit will change the overall taste.

Q2: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! This cheesecake needs time to set, so it’s perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the day before and let it chill overnight.

Q3: Can I substitute the sweetened condensed milk?

A3: Yes, you can use regular milk and sugar to taste, but sweetened condensed milk adds a rich, smooth texture that’s hard to replicate.

Q4: How long will this cheesecake last?

A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to enjoy it before it loses its fresh texture.

Q5: Can I freeze this cheesecake?

A5: Yes! You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 1 month. Let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Q6: Can I make the mousse without heavy cream?

A6: You can try substituting with coconut cream for a dairy-free option, though it will change the flavor slightly.

Q7: How can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

A7: Simply swap the graham crackers for gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free crust option.

Q8: Can I make this cheesecake without gelatin?

A8: If you prefer, you can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative to gelatin, or even skip it for a softer set.

Q9: Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a springform pan?

A9: A springform pan is ideal for easy removal, but you can use a regular cake pan—just be sure to line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Q10: What can I use instead of whipped cream?

A10: If you’re looking for a lighter topping, you can use a dairy-free whipped topping or simply serve the cheesecake without the mousse.

Conclusion

This Zesty Lime Mousse Cheesecake is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and refreshing, making it the ultimate dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. The light mousse topping and velvety cheesecake create a harmonious balance of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). It’s easy to make, beautifully presented, and simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress and delight!

Print