Delicious Lime Mousse Cheesecake
This Lime Mousse Cheesecake combines the creaminess of cheesecake with a refreshing lime mousse topping, making it a delightful dessert for any occasion. The balance of tangy lime and sweet creaminess is a perfect way to end a meal!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
– 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
– ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
– 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
– Zest of 2 limes
For the Lime Mousse Topping:
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lime juice
– Zest of 1 lime
– 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin (optional, for stability)
For Garnish (optional):
– Lime slices
– Fresh mint leaves
Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
3. Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan to create an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to help pack it down.
4. Bake the Crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Add Lime Juice and Zest: Stir in the fresh lime juice and lime zest until just combined.
5. Pour Filling into Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
1. Bake: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
2. Cool: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Prepare the Lime Mousse Topping
1. Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
2. Mix Lime Juice and Zest: In a separate bowl, combine the fresh lime juice and lime zest. If using gelatin, dissolve it in a small amount of warm water (about 1 tablespoon) and stir it into the lime juice mixture.
3. Fold Mixtures Together: Gently fold the lime juice mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake
1. Spread Mousse on Cheesecake: Carefully spread the lime mousse topping over the chilled cheesecake layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
2. Chill Again: Place the cheesecake back in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the mousse to set.
Step 6: Serve
1. Remove from Pan: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
2. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with lime slices and fresh mint leaves before slicing and serving.
Tips and Notes
– Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
– Gelatin: Adding gelatin to the mousse helps it hold its shape, especially in warmer weather. If you prefer a softer mousse, you can omit it.
– Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for ### Tips and Notes (Continued)
– Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
– Flavor Variations: You can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemon or orange for a different flavor profile. Simply replace the lime juice with the juice of your choice.
– Serving Suggestions: Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of lime syrup for added flair.
– Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The mousse topping may start to lose its texture over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Calorie Count (Approximate)
Calculating the calorie content for the entire Lime Mousse Cheesecake and then per serving can vary based on the specific brands and quantities used, but here’s a rough estimate:
For the Crust:
– Graham cracker crumbs (1.5 cups): ~600 calories
– Granulated sugar (0.5 cups): ~400 calories
– Unsalted butter (0.5 cups): ~800 calories
– Total for Crust: ~1,800 calories
For the Cheesecake Layer:
– Cream cheese (16 oz): ~1,600 calories
– Granulated sugar (0.5 cups): ~400 calories
– Vanilla extract (1 tsp): ~12 calories
– Eggs (3 large): ~210 calories
– Fresh lime juice (0.25 cups): ~30 calories
– Zest of 2 limes: negligible
– Total for Cheesecake Layer: ~2,252 calories
For the Lime Mousse Topping:
– Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): ~800 calories
– Powdered sugar (0.25 cups): ~120 calories
– Fresh lime juice (0.25 cups): ~30 calories
– Zest of 1 lime: negligible
– Total for Mousse Topping: ~950 calories
Total Calorie Count
– Crust: ~1,800 calories
– Cheesecake Layer: ~2,252 calories
– Mousse Topping: ~950 calories
– Overall Total: ~5,002 calories for the entire cheesecake.
Per Serving Calculation
Assuming this cheesecake serves 12 people:
– Calories per serving: ~417 calories
This Lime Mousse Cheesecake is a delightful, refreshing dessert that is sure to impress your guests. The combination of a creamy cheesecake base with a light and fluffy lime mousse topping creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Whether for a special occasion or a casual get-together, this cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat!
