A light, creamy lemon cheesecake mousse layered in elegant glasses with lemon curd, buttery cookie crumbles, and fresh blueberries. This refreshing dessert is perfect for spring and summer entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Cheesecake Mousse Cups offer the ideal balance of tangy citrus flavor and silky-smooth texture. This no-bake dessert is quick to prepare and visually impressive, making it an excellent choice for brunches, parties, or afternoon tea. The combination of lemon curd, airy mousse, and crunchy cookie crumbles is both refreshing and indulgent. Served in individual glasses, these mousse cups are convenient, mess-free, and easy to customize.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Mousse:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Lemon Curd Layer:
1/2 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)

For Garnish:
Crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies
Fresh blueberries
Lemon slices
Fresh mint leaves

directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to form a light, airy mousse.
4. Spoon a layer of mousse into each serving glass or dessert cup.
5. Add a spoonful of lemon curd on top of the mousse, then repeat the layering as desired.
6. Chill the mousse cups in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
7. Just before serving, top with crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies, fresh blueberries, a slice of lemon, and a sprig of mint.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Berry blend: Add a mixture of raspberries and blueberries between the mousse layers.
• Lime version: Substitute lemon with lime zest and juice for a citrusy twist.
• Layered parfait style: Alternate mousse, lemon curd, and berries in more defined layers for a parfait presentation.
• Crust base: Add a graham cracker crust layer at the bottom of the glass for more texture.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based cream cheese and coconut whipped topping for a dairy-free version.

storage/reheating

Store mousse cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, add the cookie crumble and garnish just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. This dessert should not be frozen, as freezing can alter the consistency of the mousse.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice provides better flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Is homemade lemon curd necessary?

Store-bought lemon curd works perfectly, though homemade adds a special touch if you have the time.

Can I make these mousse cups ahead of time?

Yes, they can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Add toppings just before serving.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

Shortbread cookies, digestive biscuits, or vanilla wafers make great alternatives.

How do I achieve a smooth mousse?

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened and beat until completely smooth before folding in the whipped cream.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Use a large mixing bowl and prepare in batches if needed.

What’s a good non-dairy alternative to heavy cream?

Use coconut cream or a plant-based whipping cream substitute for a dairy-free version.

Can I serve this in a large trifle bowl?

Yes, layer the mousse, lemon curd, and toppings in a trifle bowl for a shareable dessert.

Will the mousse hold its shape?

Yes, once chilled, the mousse firms up and holds its shape well in glasses or cups.

Can I add gelatin to make it firmer?

You can add a small amount of dissolved gelatin if you prefer a more structured mousse, though it’s not necessary for this recipe.

Conclusion

Lemon Cheesecake Mousse Cups are a delightful dessert that combines freshness, creaminess, and visual appeal. Quick to prepare and full of bright citrus flavor, these mousse cups are ideal for entertaining or enjoying on a warm day. Their make-ahead nature and elegant presentation make them a reliable go-to for any occasion where you want to impress without stress.

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