Lime Mousse Cheesecake

Bright, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor, this Lime Mousse Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for spring and summer. With a buttery graham cracker crust, silky no-bake lime cheesecake layer, and a fluffy, zesty lime mousse topping, it’s as refreshing as it is indulgent. This chilled treat is ideal for warm weather entertaining, holiday desserts, or when you just want a slice of sunshine on a plate.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No-Bake Simplicity – Easy to prepare and perfect for warmer days
Light & Creamy Texture – Airy mousse layered over rich cheesecake
Citrus Zing – Lime juice and zest give a refreshing flavor punch
Great Make-Ahead Dessert – Sets beautifully in the fridge overnight
Beautiful Presentation – A vibrant, layered showstopper

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Graham Cracker Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:
12 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
¼ cup fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping

For the Lime Mousse Layer:
1 (3 oz) package lime gelatin
½ cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping

Optional Toppings:
Extra whipped cream
Lime slices or zest
Mint leaves
Graham cracker crumbs

Tools You’ll Need
9-inch springform pan
Mixing bowls
Hand or stand mixer
Spatula
Zester or microplane
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl
Stir in melted butter until evenly moistened
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan
Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes while you prepare the filling

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth
Add powdered sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract
Beat until creamy and combined
Gently fold in whipped cream or topping until smooth and airy
Spread evenly over the chilled crust and refrigerate while making the mousse

Step 3: Prepare the Lime Mousse
In a medium bowl, dissolve lime gelatin in boiling water
Add cold water and stir until fully combined
Let cool to room temperature (about 10–15 minutes)
Fold in whipped cream and lime zest until light and fluffy
Pour over the cheesecake layer and smooth the top
Chill the entire cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight

Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once set, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan
Top with whipped cream, lime slices, mint, or a sprinkle of graham crumbs
Slice with a hot knife for clean, even pieces
Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing citrus flavor

Tips for the Best Lime Mousse Cheesecake
Use freshly squeezed lime juice – For the brightest flavor
Let the gelatin cool before adding whipped cream – Prevents melting
Chill thoroughly – It needs time to set up for the best texture
Wipe the knife between slices – Keeps edges neat and clean
Use full-fat cream cheese – For the smoothest, richest filling

Serving Suggestions
Serve as a refreshing end to a grilled dinner
Pair with iced tea, sparkling lime water, or a citrusy mocktail
Add a scoop of sorbet on the side for a light summer dessert
Great addition to holiday spreads, bridal showers, or potlucks
Make it mini in individual cups for an easy party presentation

How to Store and Freeze

Storing:
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Best enjoyed within the first 2 days for ideal texture

Freezing:
Freeze whole or sliced without toppings for up to 1 month
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil
Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use key limes instead?
Yes! They add even more brightness and are a fantastic variation

Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Absolutely. Just be sure to fold gently to keep the mousse light

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or a nut-based crust

Is it too tart?
Not at all—the sweetness of the crust and mousse balance the lime perfectly

Can I use another citrus flavor?
Definitely—swap lime for lemon or orange for a new twist

Final Thoughts
This Lime Mousse Cheesecake is everything you want in a warm-weather dessert: creamy, cool, and full of fresh, vibrant flavor. It’s the perfect balance of light mousse and rich cheesecake, layered over a crunchy crust and finished with a burst of citrus.
Whether you’re celebrating, entertaining, or just treating yourself, this is one dessert that never fails to brighten your table.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours minimum
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, serves 12):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 27g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 210mg

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