Easy Lemon Mousse Cake

Lemon Mousse Cake

Light, airy, and bursting with zest, a Lemon Mousse Cake is the perfect dessert to brighten up any occasion. Its refreshing lemon flavor combined with a creamy texture makes it a delightful treat for all seasons. This guide will walk you through the process of creating this splendid cake, ensuring that your baking experience is as enjoyable as the result.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:

  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• For the Lemon Mousse:

  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 packet (7g) gelatin powder
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Cake:

   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
   2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   3. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
   4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
   5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

2. Make the Lemon Mousse:

   1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
   2. In a saucepan, combine the lemon juice and sugar over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the bloomed gelatin and stir until completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
   3. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually fold in the lemon mixture and lemon zest, mixing gently until well combined. Chill for at least 30 minutes to set.

3. Assemble the Cake:

   1. Once the cake is cooled, carefully slice it in half horizontally to create two layers.
   2. Spread a generous layer of lemon mousse over the bottom half of the cake. Place the top half of the cake over the mousse.
   3. Cover the entire cake with the remaining mousse, smoothing it over with a spatula. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutritious Value and Pairing Suggestions

This Lemon Mousse Cake offers a moderate amount of calories and a delightful dose of vitamin C from the lemons. It's rich in flavor while maintaining a light texture, making it a satisfying treat without feeling too heavy.

For an excellent pairing, consider serving this cake with a side of fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, to enhance the citrus notes. A crisp, chilled glass of sparkling wine or a refreshing iced herbal tea can complement the dessert beautifully. If you're in the mood for something more savory, a vibrant spinach salad with a citrus vinaigrette can make a lovely accompaniment, balancing the sweetness of the cake with bright, fresh flavors.