If you’re searching for a refreshingly zesty dessert that’s incredibly simple yet luxuriously creamy, then this No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. With its tangy lime flavor perfectly balanced by a smooth and airy mousse texture, this cheesecake offers all the indulgence you crave without ever needing to turn on the oven. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines a crisp graham cracker crust with a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth lime mousse, creating a dessert experience that’s not only delicious but also wonderfully light and bright.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this recipe. Each one plays a vital role in shaping the taste and texture of your cheesecake, making it a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides a buttery, crunchy base that forms a solid crust.
- Sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough to complement the lime tang without overpowering it.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the graham cracker crumbs into a firm, flavorful crust.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling that brings richness and creaminess.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth mousse texture.
- Fresh lime juice: Infuses the cheesecake with bright, refreshing citrus notes.
- Lime zest: Boosts the lime flavor with an aromatic punch that livens every bite.
- Vanilla extract: Adds subtle warmth and depth to balance the tartness.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks to give the mousse its airy, cloud-like texture.
- Lime slices and zest (for garnish): Offers a vibrant and elegant finishing touch.
How to Make No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until every crumb is coated and ready to stick together perfectly.
Step 2: Form the Crust
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Make sure the crust is evenly packed, creating a sturdy base. Pop the pan into the refrigerator so the crust can set while you get started on the luscious mousse filling.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk, stirring as you go, until the mixture is silky with no lumps. This will be the rich heart of your cheesecake.
Step 4: Add Lime and Vanilla
Now it’s time to bring in the zesty freshness. Mix in the fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Stir gently so the flavors blend together without deflating the mixture, giving you that perfect balance of tart and sweet.
Step 5: Whip the Heavy Cream
Take a separate chilled bowl and whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for creating the mousse’s light, airy texture that makes this cheesecake so irresistible.
Step 6: Fold the Whipped Cream
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the lime-cream cheese mixture. Use a gentle hand here to keep the mixture fluffy and full of air, resulting in that signature mousse consistency.
Step 7: Assemble and Chill
Pour the airy mousse filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to create a beautiful, even surface. Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to let it set to perfection.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, adorn your cheesecake with fresh lime slices and a sprinkle of lime zest. These not only add a pop of color but also amplify the citrus fragrance, making each slice fresh and inviting.
How to Serve No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Lime slices and lime zest are your best friends when it comes to garnishing. They enhance the visual appeal and add bursts of fresh lime aroma that brighten every bite. You can also sprinkle a little finely chopped mint for an added pop of green and a refreshing flavor twist.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with simple berries like raspberries or strawberries, which provide a subtle fruity contrast. A dollop of whipped cream on the side can also elevate the experience, adding extra creaminess alongside the mousse.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not ramp up the wow factor by serving individual mousse cheesecake cups? Layer the crust and mousse in clear parfait glasses and garnish with lime zest and tiny mint leaves. It’s elegant, portable, and perfect for entertaining guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cheesecake stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it a wonderful make-ahead treat that’s ready whenever you want a citrusy indulgence.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cheesecake. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
Because this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Let it thaw gently in the refrigerator and serve cold to experience its perfect mousse-like creaminess and refreshing lime flavor fully.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?
While fresh lime juice provides the brightest and most authentic flavor in this No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Just be sure it’s 100% lime juice without added sugars or preservatives.
Do I need a springform pan for this recipe?
A springform pan makes it easy to remove the cheesecake without damaging its shape, which is ideal. However, if you don’t have one, a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper can work, though removal might be trickier.
Is there a way to make this cheesecake vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese and condensed milk with vegan alternatives like cashew cream and sweetened coconut condensed milk. Use coconut cream for whipping instead of heavy cream. Adjust lime juice and zest as normal for that zing!
How long does it take to set properly?
For best results, allow the No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal to ensure it’s fully set and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead for a party?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Preparing it a day before your event lets it set fully and streamlines your party preparations while impressing your guests with its fresh, zesty charm.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves luscious desserts with a lively citrus kick. Its effortless preparation and show-stopping flavor make it a dessert you’ll wish to share with everyone. Give it a try and watch it quickly become your go-to when you want a bright, creamy treat without any fuss.
Print
No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and creamy No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake featuring a crisp graham cracker crust and a light, tangy lime-flavored mousse filling. Perfect for warm weather or as a delightful dessert that requires no baking, this cheesecake combines smooth cream cheese, zesty lime, and fluffy whipped cream to create a luscious treat.
Ingredients
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 well until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter and sugar mixture.
- Form the crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making an even base layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Beat the cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Incorporate condensed milk: Gradually blend the sweetened condensed milk into the cream cheese, mixing until it is fully incorporated and has a smooth texture.
- Add lime flavoring: Stir in the fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract gently into the cream cheese mixture to combine all flavors evenly.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream using a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form, indicating the cream is light and fluffy.
- Fold in whipped cream: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the lime and cream cheese mixture, preserving the airiness and ensuring a light mousse texture.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the mousse filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the mousse to firm up and develop its flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, decorate the cheesecake with fresh lime slices and additional lime zest to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice and zest for the best and freshest flavor.
- For a firmer crust, press the crumb mixture tightly and refrigerate thoroughly before adding the filling.
- The cheesecake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For added texture, you may sprinkle some chopped toasted nuts on the crust before adding filling, if desired.
