Lime Mousse Cheesecake is a refreshing twist on traditional cheesecake, combining the tangy zest of lime with the light, airy texture of mousse. This recipe will guide you through creating a luscious, creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Follow these detailed steps to make a delightful Lime Mousse Cheesecake that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
Zest of 2 limes
For the Lime Mousse:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
Zest of 1 lime
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish (Optional):
Lime slices or wedges
Whipped cream
Lime zest
Instructions:
. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
Press Crust into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crust flat.
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
Add Vanilla, Sour Cream, Lime Juice, and Zest: Beat in the vanilla extract, sour cream, fresh lime juice, and lime zest until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
Prepare Water Bath: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
Bake: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
Cool Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then, remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Prepare the Lime Mousse:
Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
Heat Lime Juice: In a small saucepan, heat the fresh lime juice until warm. Remove from heat and add the bloomed gelatin, stirring until completely dissolved. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Whip Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
Fold in Lime Mixture: Gently fold the cooled lime-gelatin mixture and lime zest into the whipped cream until well combined and smooth.
5. Assemble the Cheesecake:
Add Mousse Layer: Spread the lime mousse evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Chill: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the mousse to set and the flavors to meld.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from Pan: Carefully remove the springform pan ring from the cheesecake.
Garnish: Garnish the top of the cheesecake with lime slices or wedges, dollops of whipped cream, and a sprinkle of lime zest if desired.
Serve: Slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between each cut, and serve chilled.
Tips for Success:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling.
Water Bath: Using a water bath helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking and ensures even baking.
Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven to prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
Conclusion:
Lime Mousse Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the light, airy quality of mousse. The tangy lime flavor adds a refreshing twist, making it perfect for any occasion. Follow this detailed recipe to create a stunning and delicious cheesecake that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Enjoy the refreshing taste and creamy texture of this heavenly Lime Mousse Cheesecake!
