If you’re craving something delightfully tangy yet luxuriously creamy, the Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe is your new go-to dessert. This vibrant cheesecake combines the zesty freshness of lime with a silky mousse texture that melts in your mouth, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s the perfect balance of tart and sweet that will brighten any occasion and impress your friends with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a cheesecake enthusiast or just love citrusy treats, this Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe promises a refreshing and unforgettable experience every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A slice of creamy lime cheesecake sits on a white plate with a crumbly brown base layer, a thick pale yellow cream cheese layer in the middle, and a smooth top layer sprinkled with lime zest. The top edge of the slice is decorated with dollops of white whipped cream, each topped with bright red raspberries, small green lime wedges, and fresh green mint leaves. Around the plate are small slices of strawberries, lime wedges, and extra mint leaves. A silver fork lies on the plate beside the cheesecake. The background shows a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet essential for creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in your Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe. Each component adds a unique touch— from the rich cream cheese base to the bright lime juice and the crunchy crust that holds it all together.

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy, buttery base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the crust to balance the tart lime.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients and gives that golden richness.
16 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, delivering creamy, smooth texture and tanginess.
1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling gently without any graininess.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped into fluffy peaks to create that light mousse consistency.
½ cup fresh lime juice (about 3-4 limes): Bursts of fresh lime flavor that make this cheesecake shine.
Zest of 2 limes: Adds intense lime aroma and flavor, making every bite vibrant.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the citrus with a warm, sweet note.
1 packet (1/4 oz) unflavored gelatin: Essential for setting the mousse without heaviness.
2 tablespoons water: Helps dissolve the gelatin perfectly for a smooth filling.
¼ cup granulated sugar (for gelatin): Sweetens the gelatin mixture gently.
Lime slices or zest (optional topping): For a fresh, elegant garnish that sings lime’s brightness.
Whipped cream (optional topping): Adds an extra scoop of creamy luxury on top.

How to Make Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture looks like damp sand. Press this firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even crust layer. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the mousse filling—this ensures it firms up nicely and won’t crumble when you slice the cheesecake.

Step 2: Make the Gelatin Mixture

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. Then, gently warm this mixture in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until completely dissolved. Stir in the ¼ cup granulated sugar until fully combined. This gelatin base will give your mousse that perfect, airy set without heaviness.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. This step is crucial because the whipped cream brings the mousse its signature light texture and volume. Be careful not to overwhip or you’ll lose that smooth creaminess.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is perfectly combined and luscious. Once smooth, slowly add the warm gelatin mixture while mixing continuously—this will help the filling set evenly without clumps.

Step 5: Fold in the Whipped Cream

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in batches. Use a spatula to fold carefully, preserving that fluffy texture. This delicate mix of mousse is what makes this Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe stand out with its airy, melt-in-your-mouth feel.

Step 6: Assemble and Chill

Pour the mousse filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This resting time allows the mousse to set beautifully into a firm yet soft cheesecake that slices effortlessly.

How to Serve Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe

A pie with two layers is shown from above on a white plate. The bottom layer is a crumbly crust in a golden orange color, covering the base evenly with a slightly rough texture. The top layer is a thick cream filling that is smooth and light off-white, spread evenly over the crust with soft, gentle swirls visible on its surface. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and flavor, garnish your cheesecake with thin slices of fresh lime or a sprinkle of lime zest. A few swirls of whipped cream on top add an inviting creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the tart lime. These simple touches make your dessert look as inviting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Serve this cheesecake with a fresh berry compote or a light citrus salad to complement the lime notes. A cup of herbal tea or a crisp white wine also works elegantly to balance the dessert’s richness while enhancing its refreshing qualities.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in clear glasses layered with crushed graham crackers and lime zest. You can also dress it up by adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut or fresh mint leaves. The Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe is versatile enough to shine in both casual and formal settings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cheesecake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy that zesty creaminess anytime you crave it without losing its delightful texture.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes well. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best consistency and flavor.

Reheating

Since this is a cold mousse cheesecake, it’s best served chilled. Avoid reheating, as this will alter its texture and cause separation. Simply remove from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to bring out the vibrant lime aroma and creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use lime juice concentrate instead of fresh lime juice?

While fresh lime juice is preferred for brightness and authenticity in the Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe, you can use concentrate in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the quantity for taste, as concentrate may be sweeter and less tangy.

What if I don’t have gelatin? Can I use another setting agent?

Gelatin is important to achieve the mousse’s delicate set, but you can substitute with agar-agar for a vegetarian alternative. However, agar requires different preparation and amounts, so results may vary slightly.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free version or use crushed gluten-free cookies. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, so it’s a great dessert option for gluten-sensitive guests.

How long does the Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe need to chill?

Chilling for at least 4 hours is essential for the mousse to set properly. For the best texture and flavor, chilling overnight is ideal, allowing the flavors to meld and the mousse to firm up perfectly.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead for a party?

Yes! This is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day or two in advance, and keep it refrigerated. It’s perfect for making your party preparations stress-free while serving a stunning and refreshing treat.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe the Lime Mousse Cheesecake Recipe is a delightful way to brighten your dessert repertoire. It’s refreshing, creamy, and surprisingly easy to pull off at home. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you deserve a little indulgence, this cheesecake will quickly become a beloved favorite. Give it a try—you’ll love the burst of citrus combined with that dreamy mousse texture!