Simple Lemon Mousse

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. Cook: 10 min. + chilling

Makes

6 servings

Updated: Jun. 30, 2023
This classic, simple lemon mousse recipe is the refreshing dessert you need. Serve it with fresh fruit or eat it alone. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Simple Lemon Mousse Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • Dash salt
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 2/3 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • Lemon slices, optional

Directions

  1. In a small saucepan, mix sugar, cornstarch and salt; whisk in egg yolks and milk until smooth. Whisk in lemon juice until blended; bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook and stir until thickened slightly, about 2 minutes longer. Stir in lemon zest.
  2. Transfer mixture to a bowl. Cover and refrigerate until cold.
  3. To serve, in a small bowl, beat cream on high speed until soft peaks form. Fold into lemon mixture. Spoon into serving dishes. If desired, top with additional whipped cream and lemon slices.
Lemon Mousse Tips

Can you make lemon mousse without eggs?

Traditional lemon mousse needs eggs to achieve the light, creamy texture. Although they aren't mousse, lemon marmalade or lemon jam can be whisked until thinned out, then folded into whipped cream for a tasty lemon dessert if eggs aren’t available. This vegan chocolate mousse is also a great option.

What can you serve with lemon mousse?

To complement the creamy texture, a thin, crisp cookie pairs beautifully with lemon mousse.

How long will lemon mousse last?

Simple lemon mousse lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator. It might begin to separate after that. A tightly covered container is the best option for storing. Check out this article on how to store every type of leftover food

—Catherine Ward, Taste of Home Prep Kitchen Manager

Nutrition Facts

1/2 cup: 282 calories, 18g fat (11g saturated fat), 140mg cholesterol, 52mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.