A Light, Tangy No-Bake Cheesecake That’s Perfect for Summer
Are you craving a luscious dessert that’s light, creamy, and zesty—all without turning on the oven? This Refreshing Lime Mousse Cheesecake is the perfect no-bake treat to brighten your day. Bursting with citrusy lime flavor and made with creamy Greek yogurt, whipped cream, and honey, this dessert delivers all the cheesecake satisfaction without the heaviness.
Craving Something Creamy and Cool? Try This Easy Lime Mousse Cheesecake Today!
This cheesecake is a dream for anyone who wants a quick, light dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re entertaining, hosting a brunch, or simply in need of a citrusy fix, this mousse-style cheesecake is the refreshing answer. Ready in just a few steps and chilled to perfection, it’s a winner for any occasion.
Introduction
Cheesecake is a beloved dessert—but sometimes, traditional versions can feel too heavy or time-consuming to make. This no-bake lime mousse cheesecake solves both problems by combining the tangy brightness of fresh lime juice with the airy texture of whipped cream and Greek yogurt. The result? A creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that feels indulgent but is light enough to enjoy even after a full meal.
With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, mousse-like filling, this cheesecake is perfect for warm days, family get-togethers, or anytime you want a fast and foolproof dessert that impresses.
Tools Needed, Servings, and Time Required
Kitchen Tools:
- 1 pie dish or 8-inch springform pan
- Medium and large mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or microplane
- Whisk
Serves:
- 6–8 people
Time Breakdown:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this simple and tangy lime mousse cheesecake:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cup fresh lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
Optional Garnish:
- Lime slices or zest
- Whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture into the bottom of a pie dish or springform pan to form a firm crust. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to compress it well. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This step adds the mousse-like lightness to your cheesecake. Set aside in the fridge until you’re ready to fold it in.
Step 3: Make the Lime Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, lime zest, and honey. Beat until all ingredients are thoroughly blended and creamy. The mixture should be slightly thick and tangy-sweet with a pleasant citrus aroma.
Step 4: Fold in Whipped Cream
Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture. Do not overmix—this step is crucial to maintain the airy, mousse-like texture of the filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour the lime mousse filling over the chilled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula or spoon to create an even surface. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the cheesecake is set and firm.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once set, remove the cheesecake from the fridge and garnish with lime slices or extra zest for a bright and fresh presentation. Slice and serve chilled.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
1. Use Fresh Lime Juice
Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the best flavor. Bottled juice lacks the brightness and complexity that fresh limes provide.
2. Whip the Cream Properly
To get that light mousse texture, make sure your whipped cream reaches stiff peaks. Avoid over-whipping, which can lead to a grainy texture.
3. Chill Long Enough
Don’t skip or shorten the chill time. The mousse needs at least 2 hours to firm up. If you have time, chilling overnight results in the best consistency.
4. Choose Full-Fat Ingredients
Use full-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt for the creamiest, most satisfying texture. Low-fat versions can lead to a runny filling.
5. Zest Before Juicing
Always zest your limes before juicing them—it’s much easier and gives you more zest to work with.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers
- Add a fresh mint sprig or lime wedge on each slice for a restaurant-style finish
- Perfect for picnics, brunch, or a refreshing end to a grilled dinner
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Freezer: You can freeze the whole cheesecake (wrapped tightly) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely. This recipe is great for preparing 1–2 days in advance. The texture actually improves as it chills longer, making it perfect for parties or meal prep.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
3. Can I use key limes instead of regular limes?
Yes! Key limes will offer a slightly sweeter and more aromatic citrus flavor. You may need more juice since key limes are smaller.
4. What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
You can substitute sour cream or plain full-fat yogurt in a pinch, but Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and thicker consistency.
5. Can I make this without whipped cream?
The whipped cream is essential to the mousse-like texture. If you’re avoiding dairy, you could try using coconut whipped cream as a substitute, but the results will vary slightly.
Conclusion
This Refreshing Lime Mousse Cheesecake is the ultimate no-bake dessert for warm days, citrus lovers, and anyone seeking an easy yet elegant treat. With its silky-smooth filling, light and airy texture, and a tangy lime flavor that lingers just enough, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
It’s perfect for entertaining, make-ahead desserts, or simply treating yourself to something special. The combination of cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and whipped cream creates a dreamy mousse-like filling, and the graham cracker crust adds just the right crunch.
So go ahead—grab those limes, whip up some cream, and chill your way to a dessert that’s cool, creamy, and unforgettable.
