Mary Berry lemon mousse is a refreshing, light, and easy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. It is made with only four ingredients: lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and cream. It is also quick to make, with only 15 minutes of preparation time and 2 hours of chilling time. You don’t need any special equipment or skills to make this mousse. All you need is a bowl, a whisk, a grater, and a fridge.
In this article, I will show you how to make Mary Berry’s lemon mousse, with a complete step-by-step guide. You will also learn some tips and tricks to make your mousse even better.
Let’s get started!
What is Mary Berry Lemon Mousse Recipe?
Mary Berry lemon mousse is a delicious dessert, made with a simple lemon cream that is whipped until fluffy and airy. It is named after Mary Berry, a famous British cook, writer, and television presenter, who published this recipe in her book Mary Berry’s Absolute Favourites in 2015. This mousse is refreshing, light, and easy to make, and it has a lovely lemon flavor and a smooth texture.
This recipe serve 4-6 people, this Lemon Mousse can be prepared with ease in approximately 2 hours, including chilling time
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Why You Love this Recipe
There are many reasons to love this recipe for Mary Berry lemon mousse.
Here’s why it deserves a place in your recipe collection:
- Ease of Preparation: This mousse is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. With just four basic ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
- Quick and Convenient: Ideal for busy schedules, this recipe requires a mere 15 minutes of prep time. The rest is just waiting while it chills to perfection.
- Exquisite Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon with creamy texture creates a taste that’s both invigorating and indulgent.
- Customizable: The mousse serves as a versatile canvas for your creativity. Pair it with various toppings like berries, cream, or mint for a personalized touch.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Lemon Mousse Recipe
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large lemons
- 150 g (5 oz) caster sugar
- 300 ml (10 fl oz) double cream
- A few mint leaves, for decoration (optional)
Useful Equipment
You will need the following equipment:
- A large bowl
- A small bowl
- A whisk
- A grater
- A measuring jug
- A sieve
- 6 small glasses or ramekins
- A fridge
Instructions Make Mary Berry Lemon Mousse
To make Mary Berry’s lemon mousse, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the lemons
- Wash the lemons and grate the zest of two of them into a large bowl.
- Squeeze the juice of all four lemons into a measuring jug and strain it through a sieve to remove any seeds or pulp.
- You should have about 200 ml (7 fl oz) of lemon juice.
Step 2: Make the lemon syrup
- Add the sugar to the lemon juice and stir until dissolved.
- Pour the mixture over the lemon zest in the large bowl and whisk well.
Step 3: Whip the cream
- In a small bowl, whip the cream with a whisk until soft peaks form.
- Do not over-whip the cream, as it will become too stiff and lose its airiness.
Step 4: Fold the cream into the lemon syrup
- Fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture with a spatula or a metal spoon, gently but thoroughly, until well combined.
- You should have a smooth and fluffy lemon cream.
Step 5: Spoon the lemon cream into glasses or ramekins
- Spoon the lemon cream into six small glasses or ramekins, dividing it evenly.
- Tap the glasses or ramekins lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Cover them with cling film and chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours or until set.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
- When ready to serve, remove the cling film and decorate the lemon mousses with some mint leaves, if desired.
- Enjoy!
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Lemon Mousse?
Mary Berry lemon mousse is a delicious dessert on its own, but you can also serve it with some toppings to make it even more special.
Here are some ideas:
- Fresh Berries: Adorn your mousse with strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for added vibrancy and a burst of natural sweetness. Consider a homemade berry coulis for an extra special touch.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add a luxurious contrast in texture. Infuse the cream with vanilla or lemon zest for a flavorful complement.
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also a subtle, refreshing flavor. Chopped mint sprinkled on top can intensify the flavor profile.
- Biscuits: Introduce a textural contrast with biscuits like shortbread or ginger snaps. Layer crushed biscuits with the mousse for a visually appealing and flavorful presentation.
Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Lemon Mousse
Achieving the ideal lemon mousse is about embracing the nuances of the ingredients and the process.
Here are some expert tips to elevate your mousse to Mary Berry’s standard:
- Opt for Fresh Lemons: The secret to the mousse’s vibrant flavor lies in using fresh lemons. They provide a depth of flavor and freshness that bottled juice simply can’t match.
- Cold Cream is Key: Utilize cold cream for a quicker whip and a more stable structure. For an added advantage, chill your bowl and whisk too.
- Gentle Folding is Crucial: The art of folding in whipped cream is crucial. Overdoing it can result in a denser mousse, so fold gently until just combined.
- Patience Pays Off: Allow the mousse to chill for at least 2 hours. This not only sets the mousse but also intensifies the flavors, making each spoonful a refreshing delight.
Variations of Mary Berry Lemon Mousse
Mary Berry’s classic lemon mousse is just the beginning.
Experiment with these delightful variations to cater to different palates and occasions:
- Lime Mousse: Swap out the lemon for lime to introduce a tart and vibrant twist. Lime brings a distinct zesty flavor, making the mousse refreshingly sharp.
- Orange Mousse: For a gentler, sweeter variant, use orange juice and zest. This version offers a subtler citrus note, with a fragrant and fruity undertone.
- Lemon and Ginger Mousse: Infuse your mousse with a dash of grated fresh ginger or ground ginger for an intriguing spice kick. This combination elevates the mousse with a sophisticated and exotic flair.
- Lemon and Yogurt Mousse: Blend in plain yogurt to replace half of the cream for a lighter, tangier version. This adaptation is not only refreshing but also offers a healthier alternative to the classic recipe.
How do I store Mary Berry Lemon Mousse Leftovers?
Proper storage is key to enjoying the lemon mousse just as much on the second day:
- Cover and Chill: Seal the mousse in individual glasses or ramekins with cling film, or transfer it to an airtight container to retain its freshness.
- Refrigerator-Friendly: The mousse can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, ensuring you can savor it at its best.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the mousse’s delightful texture and vibrant flavor.
How do I reheat Mary Berry Lemon Mousse Leftovers?
You do not need to reheat Mary Berry lemon mousse leftovers, as they are best served cold. However, if you want to soften the mousse a bit, you can follow these steps:
- Remove the mousse from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Stir the mousse gently with a spoon to loosen it up.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition value (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 577 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fat: 37 g
- Saturated fat: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 137 mg
- Protein: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 39 mg
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FAQs
Can I make Mary Berry Lemon Mousse in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry Lemon Mousse in advance. It’s actually recommended to make it at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to set properly in the fridge. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings or meals.
Is it possible to make a dairy-free version of this mousse?
Yes, you can create a dairy-free version of this lemon mousse. Substitute the double cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Make sure the substitute you choose can be whipped to soft peaks similar to dairy cream.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
While fresh lemons are recommended for the best flavor and aroma, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Keep in mind that the vibrant, fresh taste might be slightly diminished compared to using fresh lemon juice and zest.
How do I know when I’ve whipped the cream to the right consistency?
Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks. This means when you lift the whisk out of the cream, the peaks should gently fall over but still hold their shape. Be careful not to over-whip the cream, as it can become grainy and too stiff.
What are some other flavor variations I can try for this mousse?
There are several delicious variations you can try. For example, you can create a lime or orange mousse by substituting the lemon juice and zest. Adding grated ginger or replacing half the cream with yogurt are also excellent ways to experiment with different flavors.
Final Words
Mary Berry lemon mousse is a refreshing, light, and easy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. It is made with only four ingredients: lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and cream. It is also quick to make, with only 15 minutes of preparation time and 2 hours of chilling time. You don’t need any special equipment or skills to make this mousse. All you need is a bowl, a whisk, a grater, and a fridge.
I hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to make Mary Berry’s lemon mousse, with a complete step-by-step guide. You also learned some tips and tricks to make your mousse even better, some ideas for toppings, some variations, and some storage and reheating instructions.
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