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Lemon Mousse

A light, silky lemon mousse made with fresh lemon juice, a cooked egg custard base, whipped meringue, and cream. Bright, creamy, and make-ahead friendly for up to 5 days.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large eggs 3 whole + 3 separated
  • 1 cup + 2 tbsp granulated sugar 215g , divided
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • ½ cup 120ml fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
  • ⅛ tsp salt
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream 120ml
Optional:
  • ½ cup lemon curd for folding in
  • Whipped cream and lemon curd for topping

Method
 

  1. In a large heatproof bowl, whisk together 3 whole eggs, 3 egg yolks, 1 cup sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt. Reserve the 3 egg whites separately.
  2. Set the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler). Stir constantly for about 15 minutes until thickened and reaching 150°F (66°C).
  3. Remove from heat, cool for 15 minutes, then press plastic wrap onto the surface and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully cold.
  4. Beat reserved egg whites on high for 1 minute. Add remaining 2 tbsp sugar and beat to stiff peaks.
  5. Gently fold meringue into the cold custard in two or three additions.
  6. In a clean bowl, beat heavy cream to stiff peaks. Fold into the mousse mixture. Fold in lemon curd now if using.
  7. Spoon into serving glasses. Chill for at least 30 minutes. Top with whipped cream and lemon curd and serve cold.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice only — bottled will not give the same bright flavour.
  • Make sure the custard is completely cold before folding in the meringue and cream.
  • Mousse keeps tightly covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Stir constantly on the double boiler to prevent the eggs from scrambling at the edges.