Name: Creamy Lime Mousse Cheesecake: A No-Bake Treat You'll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 270 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free version); 0.25 cups sugar (powdered sugar preferred for smoother texture); 0.5 cups melted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option); 2 tablespoons gelatin (or agar-agar for a vegetarian alternative); 16 ounces cream cheese (or Neufchâtel cheese to lighten the recipe); 0.5 cups powdered sugar (granulated sugar is fine but may create a grainier texture); 0.5 cups fresh lime juice (preferably fresh for best taste); 1 teaspoon lime zest (can be omitted if short on time); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure is best for flavor); 1 cups heavy cream (or full-fat coconut cream for dairy-free)

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As I stirred the silky cream cheese and fresh lime juice together, the tart fragrance whisked me back to sun-soaked afternoons lounging by the beach. This is exactly how my No-Bake Lime Mousse Cheesecake came to life—an indulgent yet light dessert that feels like a refreshing wave on a warm day. What’s wonderful about this recipe is how effortlessly easy it is to whip up. No baking is necessary, making it a perfect option for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Plus, this creamy cheesecake is simply irresistible and sure to impress friends and family alike. Are you ready to dive into this luscious treat that promises to become a favorite at every celebration?

Why Is This Lime Mousse Cheesecake Special?

Effortless Preparation: With its no-bake method, this dessert is perfect for busy cooks, requiring minimal time and skill.
Refreshing Zest: The bright lime flavor delivers a burst of freshness that revitalizes your palate on warm days.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, this cheesecake is sure to impress guests and leave them asking for the recipe.
Customizable: Want to switch it up? Substitute lime with lemon or orange for delightful variations.
Mouthwatering Texture: Experience the airy mousse that melts in your mouth, complemented perfectly by a crunchy graham cracker crust.
Explore more delightful treats like our Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches for an extra touch of sweetness or refresh your dessert menu with the luscious Blueberry Crisp Cheesecake.

Lime Mousse Cheesecake Ingredients

For the Crust
• Graham Cracker Crumbs – Provides structure and a sweet crunch for the crust; substitute with gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free version.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness to both the crust and the filling; using powdered sugar helps create a smoother texture.
• Melted Butter – Binds the crust ingredients together; you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

For the Mousse Filling
• Gelatin – Gives the mousse its stability without cooking; consider using agar-agar for a vegetarian alternative.
• Cream Cheese – Forms the creamy base of the mousse; Neufchâtel cheese can lighten the recipe.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling smoothly; granulated sugar is fine but may create a grainier texture.
• Fresh Lime Juice – Essential for that zesty flavor in the mousse; bottled can work in a pinch, but fresh is preferred for the best taste.
• Lime Zest – Enhances the lime flavor and aroma; can be omitted if you’re short on time.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
• Heavy Cream – Whipped to add lightness and volume to the filling; full-fat coconut cream can substitute for a dairy-free treat.

Enjoy crafting your delightful Lime Mousse Cheesecake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lime Mousse Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of sugar, and ½ cup of melted butter. Mix until everything is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Dissolve the Gelatin
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of gelatin over ¼ cup of cold water in a small bowl. Allow it to bloom for about 5 minutes, until it absorbs the water and becomes spongy. Then, microwave the mixture for 15-20 seconds until fully melted and liquid. Stir well and let it cool slightly before adding it to the mousse mixture.

Step 3: Make Lime Mousse
In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 ounces of cream cheese and ½ cup of powdered sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually mix in the zest of 1 lime, ½ cup of fresh lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until everything is thoroughly combined and velvety.

Step 4: Combine Gelatin and Mousse
Pour the slightly cooled gelatin into the cream cheese mixture while stirring continually to ensure it’s evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, whisk 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being gentle to maintain the airy texture of the filling.

Step 5: Assemble Cheesecake
Once the mousse is ready, pour it over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure it covers the crust evenly. Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator and allow it to set for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight, giving the flavors time to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish
When ready to serve your delightful Lime Mousse Cheesecake, remove it from the springform pan. Garnish the top with slices of fresh lime or lime zest, and add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an elegant touch. Slice it into wedges and serve chilled to enjoy the refreshing flavors.

Lime Mousse Cheesecake Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists on the classic Lime Mousse Cheesecake!

Citrus Swap: Use lemon or orange juice instead of lime for a different citrusy flavor. Each brings its unique brightness, perfect for any citrus lover!
Fruit Topping: Top the cheesecake with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for added color and flavor. The berries’ natural sweetness beautifully complements the tart lime.
Chocolate Delight: Incorporate cocoa powder into the crust for a chocolatey base. This adds a richer flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the mousse.
Herb Infusion: Add a hint of fresh mint or basil into the filling for a refreshing herbal twist. This unexpected note elevates your cheesecake to new gourmet heights.
Nutty Crunch: Mix crushed nuts, like almonds or pecans, into the crust for an extra crunch. It will add a lovely texture to your cheesecake, making each bite more enjoyable!
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free cheesecake, swap cream cheese for cashew cream and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream. It’s creamy and flavorful without any dairy!
Boozy Twist: Add a splash of rum or tequila to the mousse for a fun adult version of this dessert. It adds a lovely depth of flavor, perfect for summer gatherings!
Lime Zest Crust: Incorporate lime zest into the crust mixture for an extra burst of citrus flavor. This lovely addition ensures each layer of your cheesecake is bursting with zesty goodness.

Don’t forget to explore more delicious desserts like our refreshing Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches and the delightful Honey Cheesecake Salted. Customizing your Lime Mousse Cheesecake is a delightful way to make it your own!

Expert Tips for Lime Mousse Cheesecake

Dissolving Gelatin: Ensure that the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in the mousse, which can compromise the silky texture.
Folding Technique: Fold the whipped cream gently into the mousse; over-mixing can result in a dense, less airy filling that loses its delightful lightness.
Correct Chilling Time: Allow sufficient refrigeration time for the Lime Mousse Cheesecake to set properly—aim for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, for best results.
Ingredient Temperature: Use room temperature cream cheese to achieve a smooth, blended filling, avoiding any gritty texture from cold ingredients.
Garnish for Presentation: Use fresh lime slices or zest as a garnish before serving for a stunning visual that enhances the overall appeal of your cheesecake.

How to Store and Freeze Lime Mousse Cheesecake

Fridge: Keep the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and freshness, ready for you whenever you crave a slice.

Freezer: If you want to store the cheesecake for longer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen slices, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. This ensures the mousse returns to its delightful creamy state.

Reheating: No reheating is necessary for this cold dessert; simply slice and serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing experience.

What to Serve with Lime Mousse Cheesecake

Transform your delightful dessert into a complete dining experience with these perfect pairings that excite the palate.

Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offers a burst of sweetness and vibrant color that complements the tangy lime.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats add texture and a hint of tropical flavor, enhancing the cheesecake’s creamy profile.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds richness and a luxurious touch, making each bite feel indulgent.
Mint Leaves: Garnishing with fresh mint not only elevates the presentation but also adds a refreshing herbal note that works beautifully with the lime.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce introduces an unexpected depth of flavor, balancing the tanginess with sweetness.

Pair your Lime Mousse Cheesecake with a citrus-infused iced tea for a refreshing drink that echoes the zesty notes of the dessert. Enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors and textures as you savor each bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Lime Mousse Cheesecakes are perfect for busy home cooks who love to plan ahead! You can prepare the graham cracker crust up to 3 days in advance and store it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its crunchy texture. Additionally, the creamy mousse filling can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before assembling. Just remember to keep the whipped cream separate until mixing it with the cream cheese for the best texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the mousse over the crust, allow it to set overnight, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

What types of limes should I use for my Lime Mousse Cheesecake?
I absolutely recommend using fresh limes for the best flavor! Look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, as they’ll be juicier. If fresh ones aren’t available, bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but may lack that vibrant, zesty zing.

How should I store my Lime Mousse Cheesecake?
Keep your cheesecake covered in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. This is the best way to maintain its creamy texture and incredible flavor. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, feel free to make it a day ahead!

Can I freeze my Lime Mousse Cheesecake?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. That way, you can have a refreshing dessert ready any time!

The mousse seems too liquidy. What went wrong?
If your mousse doesn’t set properly, you’ll want to check a couple of things. First, ensure that your gelatin is fully dissolved and has bloomed correctly before adding it to the mix. Also, make sure that you’re allowing enough chilling time after assembling the cheesecake—at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! If you’re preparing this cheesecake for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. You can also substitute gelatin with agar-agar for a vegetarian alternative, making this a versatile dessert for any occasion!

What can I use if I don’t have gelatin?
If you’re out of gelatin or looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute it with agar-agar. Use 1 tablespoon of agar-agar powder mixed with ¼ cup of water, bringing it to a boil to ensure it’s activated. This will provide the same stability for your mousse, ensuring that it sets just as beautifully.