This Lmon Mousse Cake is a dreamy, multi-layered dessert that combines the brightness of lemon with the elegance of mousse. It features soft lemon sponge cake layers soaked in lemon syrup, filled with a creamy lemon mousse made from whipped cream and lemon curd, and topped with a glossy lemon glaze or jello. The result is a light yet decadent cake that’s perfect for spring gatherings, birthdays, or any time you want to impress with a citrusy showstopper.
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Sponge Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons lemon extract
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Curd:
- ⅔ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 whole eggs
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Mousse:
- 3 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 4 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons water
- Yellow food coloring (optional)
For the Lemon Syrup:
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the Lemon Glaze (optional):
- 1 package (3 oz) lemon-flavored gelatin
- ½ cup boiling water
- ½ cup ice cubes
Instructions:
Step 1: Bake the Lemon Sponge Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in lemon extract and zest.
- Mix in milk. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly among the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes completely on wire racks. Level the tops if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Curd
- In a saucepan, whisk together eggs, yolks, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla until smooth.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve for a silky texture. Chill until set.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Mousse
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over water and let bloom for 5 minutes.
- Microwave the gelatin mixture for 20–30 seconds until fully dissolved.
- In a large bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and lemon extract until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in chilled lemon curd (reserve ½ cup for layering).
- Quickly whisk the hot gelatin into a small portion of mousse, then fold back into the rest to ensure even distribution.
- Chill mousse for 15–20 minutes before assembling.
Step 4: Prepare Lemon Syrup
- Combine water, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2 minutes. Let cool.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Brush generously with lemon syrup.
- Spread a thin layer of reserved lemon curd, then top with lemon mousse.
- Repeat with remaining layers, finishing with mousse on top.
- Smooth the top and sides with an offset spatula. Chill for 1 hour.
Step 6: Add Lemon Glaze (Optional)
- Dissolve lemon gelatin in boiling water, then add ice cubes to cool.
- Pour gently over the top of the cake. Chill overnight to set.
Step 7: Decorate and Serve
- Pipe whipped cream around the edges or top with lemon slices, edible flowers, or raspberries.
- Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts. Serve chilled.
This cake is a celebration of citrus and cream—light, luscious, and layered with flavor. Want to try a tropical twist next time, like pineapple mousse or coconut glaze? I’ve got ideas that’ll make your dessert table shine! 😄