Refreshing Lime Mousse Cheesecake 🍰🍈
There’s nothing quite like a bright, citrusy dessert to beat the summer heat. This Refreshing Lime Mousse Cheesecakecombines the creamy decadence of cheesecake with the light, fluffy texture of mousse—and then infuses it with a bold lime twist. Layered over a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with fresh blackberries and mint, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. No oven time (except a quick crust bake), no water bath, no stress—just pure lime bliss.
Why I Love This Recipe
This cheesecake is a showstopper that’s secretly simple. I love how it layers textures—crunchy crust, smooth cheesecake, and airy mousse—all brought to life with fresh lime juice and zest. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for summer parties, family dinners, or a chilled treat just for you. And paired with a glass of blueberry lemonade, it’s basically sunshine on a plate.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Lime Mousse:
- 1 cup lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings:
- Fresh blackberries
- Fresh mint leaves
- Extra lime zest, for garnish
🍋 Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- No graham crackers? Use vanilla wafers or crushed shortbread.
- Limes: Freshly squeezed juice is key—bottled lime juice just doesn’t compare.
- Want a shortcut? Use store-bought lemon curd for the mousse base.
- Switch up berries: Raspberries or strawberries also pair beautifully with lime.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
Press firmly into the base of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely.
2. Make the Lime Mousse
In a saucepan, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and just begins to boil.
Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the cooled lime mixture into the whipped cream.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Stir in vanilla until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust.
Top with the lime mousse, spreading gently to smooth.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
5. Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh blackberries, mint, and extra lime zest.
Slice, serve, and enjoy every creamy, zesty bite!
💡 Tips for Success
- Cool everything completely before layering to avoid sogginess or collapse.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a lump-free filling.
- Want perfect slices? Run your knife under warm water between cuts.
- Chill overnight for the best texture—worth the wait!
🍽 Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dessert pairs perfectly with:
- Blueberry Lemonade – fresh and citrusy
- Grasshopper Pie for a cool, minty dessert duo
- Caramel Apple Pie Cookies for contrast with warm flavors
- No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie – because one no-bake pie deserves another
- Ice Cream Sandwich Cake for a kid-approved dessert combo
🧊 Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Keeps for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Freezing? Freeze without the toppings for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Avoid room temp: This mousse-style dessert is best served cold.
🥄 More Recipes You’ll Love
- Blueberry Lemonade – sip-worthy and summery
- No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie – easy and creamy
- Grasshopper Pie – cool mint + chocolate magic
- Ice Cream Sandwich Cake – a freezer favorite
- Caramel Apple Pie Cookies – chewy, fruity perfection
Final Thoughts
This Refreshing Lime Mousse Cheesecake is everything a summer dessert should be—cool, creamy, bright, and beautifully simple. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks elegant and tastes even better. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or craving something sweet on a hot day, this cheesecake delivers a zesty escape from the ordinary.
Did you try it? Snap a photo and tag us! And don’t forget to check out more no-bake treats at ChefManiac.com.
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