Lime Mousse Cheesecake

This refreshing and tangy lime mousse cheesecake is a perfect blend of creamy, zesty, and sweet! A light dessert with a smooth texture, ideal for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for something special.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp (90g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp lime zest (from about 2 limes)
• ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 ½ tsp unflavored gelatin
• 2 tbsp cold water

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Lime slices or zest
• Fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Gelatin Mixture

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. Once bloomed, gently heat the gelatin in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until fully dissolved. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add lime zest and lime juice, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Once the gelatin has cooled slightly but is still liquid, fold it into the cheesecake mixture until combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour the lime mousse cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, until the cheesecake is fully set.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Before serving, top the cheesecake with whipped cream, lime slices, lime zest, and fresh berries for a pop of color and extra flavor.
2. Slice and enjoy!

Tips:

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother filling.
• For a more intense lime flavor, you can add a bit more lime juice or zest to the cheesecake filling.
• If you prefer a firmer texture, you can add a little extra gelatin to the filling.

Enjoy your Lime Mousse Cheesecake—a tangy, creamy, and decadent dessert that’s sure to impress!