Dreamy, creamy, and bursting with citrusy brightness, this Lemon Mousse is a dessert that never fails to bring a little sunshine to the table. Silky-smooth and delightfully light, it’s the kind of treat you’ll crave when you want something refreshing, but just rich enough to feel indulgent. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch that looks as gorgeous as it tastes — perfect for impressing guests or just savoring a not-too-sweet moment all to yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a pantry full of exotic items here — each ingredient in Lemon Mousse shines in its own way, giving you that luxurious texture and zing. From the creamy base to the tang of real lemon curd, every element matters for a flawless finish.

Heavy cream: The rich foundation that gives your mousse its signature fluffy, airy body.
Confectioner’s sugar: Dissolves easily for subtle sweetness throughout the dessert, avoiding any graininess.
Salt: Just a pinch brings balance and helps amplify the bright citrus notes.
Lemon curd: The star ingredient! It’s sweet, tart, and ultra-smooth, infusing each bite with bold flavor.
Lemon zest: Adds an aromatic, fresh kick and beautiful flecks of color — don’t skip it!

How to Make Lemon Mousse

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Start with chilled heavy cream in a large bowl, then add your confectioner’s sugar and a tiny pinch of salt. Using a mixer on medium speed, whip the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until you see those lovely medium peaks forming. You’re looking for a texture that holds soft shapes but isn’t overly stiff — this will make the Lemon Mousse extra delicate and luscious.

Step 2: Fold in Lemon Curd and Zest

Now, gently scoop in the lemon curd and sprinkle over the lemon zest. Use a spatula to fold everything together with patience — you want those beautiful streaks of yellow to disperse without deflating the whipped cream. The goal is a smooth, even mixture with a sunny color and scent.

Step 3: Divide and Set

Spoon the finished mousse into eight small dessert glasses or bowls, aiming for heaping half-cup servings. At this stage, you can get playful with your presentation — smooth the tops or create a rustic swirl! Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream or a bit more zest over each serving to hint at what’s inside.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Pop your filled glasses into the fridge for at least an hour. This time isn’t just for cooling — it helps the Lemon Mousse firm up to that melt-in-your-mouth consistency. You can even make it a day ahead, letting the flavors mingle until you’re ready for that first delightful spoonful.

How to Serve Lemon Mousse

Garnishes

A finishing touch takes Lemon Mousse from simple to stunning. Try a flourish of whipped cream, a sprinkling of fresh lemon zest, a few raspberries, or even a crisp mint leaf. These little extras add visual flair and a burst of freshness with every bite.

Side Dishes

This mousse is lovely on its own, but it also plays well alongside buttery shortbread cookies, thin almond tuiles, or a handful of plump berries. Serve with crisp biscotti or a light lemon wafer if you want a little crunch beside the creamy mousse.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, layer Lemon Mousse in parfait glasses with crumbled meringues or graham cracker crumbs. Pour into tiny mason jars or elegant shot glasses for individual party treats, or spoon into edible chocolate shells for a fancy finish. The possibilities are as bright as the flavor itself!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any mousse left (though it rarely happens!), cover each glass tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Lemon Mousse will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, maintaining its silky texture and vibrant taste.

Freezing

Freezing Lemon Mousse is possible, but expect a slightly firmer, denser texture after thawing. Simply cover your containers well and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving to restore some of that lightness.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Lemon Mousse — it’s best enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge. If it’s frozen, be sure to let it come to a soft, scoopable chill in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Lemon Mousse without lemon curd?

Lemon curd is essential for the bold, authentic citrus flavor that defines Lemon Mousse. However, you can use homemade or store-bought curd to suit your taste. Making your own allows for extra customization if desired.

Why isn’t my mousse setting up?

If your Lemon Mousse is too soft, it might be due to under-whipped cream or not enough chilling time. Be sure to reach medium peaks when whipping, and allow at least an hour in the refrigerator for the mousse to firm up.

Can I use lime or orange instead of lemon?

Absolutely! While it won’t be classic Lemon Mousse, substituting with lime or orange curd and zest can create equally luscious variations with their own unique personalities.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a fine microplane or zester, spinning the lemon lightly so only the colored peel comes off. Avoid the bitter white pith underneath for the brightest, freshest flavor in your mousse.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As written, Lemon Mousse contains no gluten. Just double-check your lemon curd and any toppings you add for gluten-free assurance if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

If you love desserts that are equal parts simple, elegant, and bursting with citrus cheer, you’ll adore this Lemon Mousse. It brings a smile to every occasion and is so easy, you might find yourself making it again and again — don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to treat. Give it a try, and let every melt-in-your-mouth spoonful transport you to a sunny, lemon-scented day!