If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a little slice of sunshine, the No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake – Refreshing, Creamy & Easy Dessert Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect balance between tangy lime brightness and smooth, airy cheesecake mousse, all set atop a buttery graham cracker crust that adds just the right amount of crunch. The beauty here is not only in its vibrant flavor and delightful texture but in how effortlessly it comes together, requiring no oven at all. This is the kind of dessert you’ll want to make again and again, especially when warm weather calls for something cool, light, and irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that classic, bright lime flavor paired with rich creaminess. The simplicity of these ingredients belies the elegance of the final dessert, and every element, from the crust to the mousse, builds on flavor, texture, and color just right.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These create the classic buttery crust that holds the entire cheesecake together with a perfect crunch.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the crust, balancing the lime’s tang.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the graham cracker crumbs to form a sturdy, flavorful base.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the mousse, providing a creamy texture and rich tang.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the mousse smoothly without any graininess.
- Fresh lime juice: Brings that sharp, refreshing citrus punch, essential for the mousse’s vibrant flavor.
- Lime zest: Intensifies the lime aroma and adds an extra layer of freshness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and balances the tartness beautifully.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped into stiff peaks, it gives the mousse its signature light and airy texture.
- Optional toppings (lime zest curls, whipped cream, lime slices): Add charm and an extra burst of lime flavor to the presentation.
How to Make No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake – Refreshing, Creamy & Easy Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Make the crust
Start by mixing your graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until every crumb is moistened evenly. This step is key for a crust that holds together perfectly without crumbling apart. Then, firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s compact and even. Pop it in the fridge so it can chill while you whip up the luscious lime mousse filling.
Step 2: Prepare the lime mousse cheesecake filling
Next, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth – this is where the creamy magic begins. Slowly add the powdered sugar, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined with a velvety texture. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form; this step is what will give your mousse a wonderfully light and fluffy feel. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring you keep the mousse airy and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble and chill
Spread the bright lime mousse filling evenly over your chilled crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Cover your cheesecake and let it set in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This gives the mousse time to firm up beautifully while melding the flavors.
How to Serve No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake – Refreshing, Creamy & Easy Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
When it’s time to serve, a little garnish goes a long way. Fresh lime zest curls add a playful spiral of citrus brightness right on top. Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess, or place thin lime slices along the edges to hint at the zesty flavors inside. These little touches make your dessert feel extra special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light, fresh accompaniments—think a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a bowl of seasonal berries. The fruit’s natural sweetness and bright acidity will complement the tart lime flavor, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in elegant glasses or mason jars, layering the crust and mousse for a pretty parfait effect. This is perfect for casual gatherings or when you want to add a bit of flair without extra effort. Another idea: decorate the top with edible flowers or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for a pop of color and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve enjoyed your slice, store any leftovers carefully covered in the fridge. This cheesecake keeps well for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture without drying out. Just be sure to keep it chilled until you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Freezing
If you want to make this dessert ahead for a special occasion, freezing works beautifully. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge – just note the texture will be a bit firmer but still deliciously creamy.
Reheating
This recipe is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge for that perfect cool contrast to warmer days or a rich meal.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought whipped cream instead of whipping my own?
While store-bought whipped cream can work in a pinch, whipping your own heavy cream ensures the mousse is lighter and fluffier, which is crucial for the signature texture of this No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake – Refreshing, Creamy & Easy Dessert Recipe.
What type of cream cheese works best for this recipe?
Use full-fat cream cheese softened to room temperature. It whips up smoothly and gives that rich, tangy flavor essential for the mousse’s creamy texture and taste.
Can I substitute lime with lemon or orange?
Absolutely! While lime provides a refreshing tartness unique to this cheesecake, lemon or orange juice and zest can be substituted for a different citrus twist, making the dessert just as delightful and vibrant.
Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies, and ensure your toppings are free from gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How long does it take for the cheesecake to set properly?
For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling is ideal. This allows the mousse to firm up perfectly without losing its airy, creamy nature.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake – Refreshing, Creamy & Easy Dessert Recipe that makes every bite feel like a mini celebration. It’s bright, smooth, and so wonderfully simple to make, whether for a casual family treat or your next dinner party. Trust me, once you try this vibrant, luscious dessert, it will quickly become your go-to recipe for all things citrusy and creamy. Give it a whirl and enjoy every delightful spoonful!
Print
No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake – Refreshing, Creamy & Easy Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake is a refreshing and creamy dessert perfect for summer or any occasion. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a light lime-flavored mousse filling made with cream cheese, fresh lime juice, and whipped cream, this easy-to-make cheesecake requires no baking and sets in the fridge for a cool, tangy treat.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the lime cheesecake mousse:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup fresh lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Optional topping:
- Lime zest curls
- Whipped cream
- Thin lime slices
Instructions
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the lime mousse cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and smooth.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Fold whipped cream into filling: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime cream cheese mixture to maintain the mousse’s light and fluffy consistency.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Evenly spread the mousse filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill to set: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, garnish with lime zest curls, whipped cream, or thin lime slices as desired. Slice and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- For a more intense citrus flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon juice or orange zest to the mousse mixture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
