If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a burst of sunshine in a spoon, look no further than this Creamy Lemon Mousse. This simple yet elegant treat is silky smooth with the perfect balance of tart lemon and sweet, airy cream. Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging solo, this mousse is a bright, fresh, and ultra-satisfying finale that transforms everyday ingredients into a dreamy, cloud-like dessert experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the Creamy Lemon Mousse:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh berries
- Mint leaves
How to Make Creamy Lemon Mousse
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start by pouring the heavy whipping cream into a mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks begin to form. This step takes just a few minutes but is key for that dreamy mousse texture—think pillowy, not stiff.
Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor
Once your cream is softly whipped, add the powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Continue beating the mixture until you see those lovely stiff peaks. The sugar gives sweetness, the zest brings bright citrus, and the vanilla adds that subtle, comforting aroma.
Step 3: Fold in the Lemon Curd
Now it’s time to bring in the star of Creamy Lemon Mousse: the lemon curd. Swap out your mixer for a spatula and gently fold in the lemon curd, being careful not to deflate all the air you just whipped in! Fold until the mixture is fully incorporated and supremely smooth—it should look like lemon clouds.
Step 4: Portion and Chill
Spoon or pipe the mousse into individual dishes, cups, or ramekins. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least one hour. This resting time helps all the flavors meld together and gives the mousse its perfect, scoopable consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, top your mousse with fresh berries, a sprig of mint, or even a little dollop of extra lemon curd. This final flourish makes your Creamy Lemon Mousse look as irresistible as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Mousse

Garnishes
A thoughtfully chosen garnish can turn each serving of Creamy Lemon Mousse into a little work of art. A scatter of vibrant mixed berries—raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries—adds color and a juicy pop. A sprig of fresh mint offers fragrance and visual freshness. For extra zing, try a swirl of extra lemon curd on top or a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest.
Side Dishes
This mousse pairs beautifully with buttery shortbread cookies, crisp biscotti, or even a handful of sweet, crunchy graham cracker crumbs. If you want to keep things light, a platter of fresh fruit is the perfect accompaniment—think sliced kiwi, mango, or melon to echo those sunny flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun! Layer Creamy Lemon Mousse into clear glasses with cookie crumbs for a playful parfait effect, or serve it in delicate teacups for an elegant look. Mason jars or mini glass jars make this dessert perfect for picnics and parties, while a big family-style bowl encourages everyone to dig in together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have any mousse left, cover it tightly and refrigerate. The flavor actually intensifies over a day, giving you an even richer experience next time you dip your spoon in. Enjoy within 2 days for best texture and taste.
Freezing
While Creamy Lemon Mousse is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight—the texture may be slightly softer, but the flavor remains delicious. Always garnish just before serving for best results.
Reheating
This dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If your mousse has been stored in the fridge, simply give it a gentle stir to restore its silky consistency, then serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
FAQs
Can I use homemade lemon curd?
Absolutely! Homemade lemon curd gives you complete control over the tartness and sweetness. Just be sure it’s nice and thick—you want your mousse to hold its shape.
How long does Creamy Lemon Mousse keep in the fridge?
Your mousse will stay fresh for up to 2 days if stored covered in the refrigerator, making it a great make-ahead dessert for dinner parties or gatherings.
Is there a way to make this mousse lighter?
For a lighter option, try using light whipping cream or substituting part of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. The texture will be a little different—still fluffy, just not as rich.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
If you’re out of powdered sugar, blend regular granulated sugar until fine, or use superfine sugar as a quick swap. Just make sure it fully dissolves into the cream for a smooth finish.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Double or even triple the quantities to make a big batch of Creamy Lemon Mousse, perfect for a party dessert table. Just be sure to use a large enough mixing bowl and whisk in batches if needed.
Final Thoughts
If you love bright, fresh flavors and cloud-like desserts, you absolutely have to try this Creamy Lemon Mousse. It’s refreshingly easy, stunning to serve, and sure to make any meal feel special. Gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy a spoonful of pure sunshine!
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**Creamy Lemon Mousse** Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the refreshing citrus flavors of this delightful Creamy Lemon Mousse. With a light and airy texture, this no-bake dessert is a perfect ending to any meal, especially during the warmer months.
Ingredients
For the Creamy Lemon Mousse:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh berries
- Mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Creamy Lemon Mousse: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in the Lemon Curd: Gently fold in the lemon curd using a spatula until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Chill and Serve: Spoon the mousse into serving cups. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with berries, mint, or extra lemon curd.
Notes
- For extra tang, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice when folding in the lemon curd.
- This mousse can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the fridge.
- Delicious served with shortbread cookies or graham cracker crumbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg