Refined Lime Mousse Cheesecake with Green Grape Garnish

Short description

This Refined Lime Mousse Cheesecake offers a refreshing twist on traditional cheesecake with its airy lime-infused mousse, crisp biscuit base, and elegant garnishes. Finished with fresh green grapes, zest, and a hint of green coulis, it’s a sophisticated dessert with delicate citrus balance and visual appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light and refreshing: Lime mousse gives a bright, tangy lift to classic cheesecake flavor.
Elegant presentation: Garnishes like grapes and microgreens elevate the aesthetic.
No baking required: Ideal for warm days or when you need a low-effort dessert.
Refined flavor profile: Balanced sweetness and citrus for a gourmet finish.
Make-ahead perfection: Sets in the fridge—great for preparing in advance.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Biscuit Base

1 cup (100 g) digestive or graham cracker crumbs
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)

Lime Mousse Cheesecake Layer

1¼ cups (280 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
⅓ cup (70 g) granulated sugar
2 tsp lime zest
¼ cup (60 ml) fresh lime juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp powdered gelatin + 2 tbsp cold water
¾ cup (180 ml) heavy whipping cream, whipped to soft peaks

Lime Jelly Drops (Optional Garnish)

¼ cup (60 ml) lime juice
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp gelatin

Topping Garnish

Fresh green grapes (sliced or shaped)
Lime zest
Microgreens or edible leaves
Green syrup or coulis (e.g., kiwi-lime)

Directions

1. Make the Biscuit Base

In a bowl, combine crushed biscuits with melted butter and brown sugar (if using).
Press firmly into the base of your mold or dessert ring.
Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm.

2. Prepare the Lime Mousse Cheesecake Layer

Bloom gelatin in cold water for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar, lime juice, zest, and vanilla until smooth.
Gently melt the bloomed gelatin and mix into the cream cheese base.
Fold in whipped cream until smooth and fully incorporated.
Pour mousse over the chilled crust. Smooth the top and refrigerate for 4–6 hours, or until fully set.

3. Optional: Make Lime Jelly Drops

Warm lime juice and sugar in a small pan.
Stir in gelatin until fully dissolved.
Pipe into spherical molds and refrigerate until firm.

4. Assemble and Garnish

Once mousse is set, carefully unmold the cheesecake.
Top with sliced or shaped green grapes, fresh lime zest, lime jelly drops, and microgreens.
Finish with a drizzle of green syrup or coulis for color and flavor contrast.

Servings and timing

Yield: 6–8 servings
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 4–6 hours
Total time: Approximately 5–6½ hours

Variations

Tropical touch: Use passionfruit or mango juice in place of lime for a tropical mousse.
Nutty base: Add crushed pistachios or coconut flakes to the biscuit layer.
Citrus blend: Mix lime with lemon or yuzu juice for added complexity.
Mini portions: Prepare in ramekins or mini dessert rings for individual servings.
Herbal hint: Infuse the mousse with a touch of basil or mint for freshness.

Storage/reheating

Refrigeration: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze (without garnishes) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before decorating.
Serving: Serve chilled; garnish just before serving for best texture and color.

FAQs

1. Can I make this without gelatin?

You can use agar-agar or omit for a softer set, though it may not hold shape as well.

2. Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

3. What can I use instead of microgreens?

Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers offer a lovely, natural garnish alternative.

4. How do I make the kiwi-lime coulis?

Blend kiwi, lime juice, and a bit of sugar until smooth. Strain and chill before using.

5. Can I use a springform pan instead of a mousse ring?

Yes, just line the sides with acetate or parchment for a cleaner edge.

6. Is it safe to freeze this mousse cake?

Yes, it freezes well without garnishes. Add decorations after thawing.

7. How do I keep the top smooth?

Use an offset spatula to level the mousse before chilling.

8. Can I add food coloring to the mousse?

Yes, a small amount of green gel coloring can enhance the lime theme visually.

9. How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?

Use enough melted butter and press the base firmly before chilling.

10. Can I serve this as a plated dessert?

Absolutely. Slice neatly and garnish each plate with syrup and fruit for a restaurant-style presentation.

Conclusion

Refined Lime Mousse Cheesecake with Green Grape Garnish is a refreshing, elegant dessert with layers of creamy citrus mousse and crisp base, topped with thoughtful garnishes that bring color and flavor. Perfect for spring and summer events or anytime you want to impress with a light, luxurious finish.

[tasty-recipe id=”15682″]