Description
This No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake is a refreshing and creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a light, zesty lime mousse. It’s perfect for warm weather or any occasion where a cool, citrusy treat is desired, delivering bright lime flavors with a smooth and airy texture without needing an oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Garnish
- Lime slices and zest, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Form the crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Place it in the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the filling.
- Make the cream cheese base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Add lime flavoring: Stir in the fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract gently to combine all flavors without deflating the mixture.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, ensuring it has enough volume for a light mousse texture.
- Fold in whipped cream: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the lime and cream cheese mixture until the filling is well combined, light, and airy without overmixing.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the mousse filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top evenly using a spatula.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the mousse to firm up completely.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, decorate the top with lime slices and additional lime zest to add a fresh, decorative touch and enhance the citrus aroma.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing without lumps.
- Chilling the bowls and beaters before whipping the cream helps to achieve stiffer peaks.
- The longer the cheesecake chills, the firmer and more flavorful it becomes.
- You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with digestive biscuits if graham crackers are not available.
- For an extra zing, add a teaspoon of lime extract along with vanilla extract.
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.
