With the arrival of a new year, many seek festive, tasty treats that don’t demand a lot of kitchen time. A dessert that fits this brief is lemon mousse.
This dessert is not only bright and refreshing, but it is also incredibly easy to make. Here is a light and delicious lemon mousse ready in about five minutes using just a few ingredients, without the need for an oven.
Contents
To serve four people, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 can (395 g) low-fat condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup low-fat whipped cream
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Crushed vanilla cookies for a base (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the low-fat condensed milk and fresh lemon juice. The lemon acidity thickens the mixture naturally. Stir in the lemon zest to intensify the citrus aroma. Mix until everything is well combined and the texture is smooth.
Beat the cream in a separate bowl until soft peaks form. Ensure the cream is chilled before whipping for the best results. If a lighter dessert is preferred, use low-fat cream.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon-condensed milk mixture with slow, circular motions to preserve the airy texture. Avoid overmixing to maintain fluffiness.
For a crunchy base, scatter crushed vanilla cookies in the bottom of serving glasses. Pour the mousse over the cookie base when using it, or portion the mousse directly into cups if not using a base. A pastry bag can add an elegant finish.
Although this mousse can be served immediately, refrigerating it for about an hour helps it thicken and become firmer.
Before serving, garnish each glass with a touch of lemon zest and a mint leaf. The decorations add color and echo the citrus flavor.
This lemon mousse makes for a standout dessert on New Year’s Eve. Its quick prep suits hosts who want something elegant without spending long hours in the kitchen. Its light, refreshing finish pairs perfectly with a celebratory menu and leaves room for a satisfying end to the evening.
[Citation: culinary guide on citrus-based mousse recipes]