🌟 Light Lemon Yogurt Mousse (5-Min Prep) – 5-Minute Low-Calorie Vegan Dessert
Whip up a fluffy lemon yogurt mousse in just 5 minutes—low-calorie, dairy-free, and perfect for a refreshing Thanksgiving palate cleanser. Save for a bright finish.
This vegan lemon yogurt mousse is the ultimate 5-minute dessert that’s light, tangy, and guilt-free. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any occasion, it’s dairy-free, low-calorie, and made with simple ingredients you likely already have. The zesty lemon flavor cuts through rich meals, making it an ideal palate cleanser. Plus, it’s so easy to make with just four ingredients and no baking required!
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or looking for a quick vegan dessert, this mousse delivers big flavor without the effort. The combination of tangy lemon and creamy yogurt creates a silky texture that’s refreshing and satisfying. Best of all, it’s ready in minutes and requires no special equipment—just a whisk or hand mixer!
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or flavors, make it ahead of time, and even freeze it for later. It’s perfect for those who want a healthy but indulgent treat that’s still easy to prepare. Let’s dive into what makes this mousse so special.
The key to this mousse’s lightness is the use of non-dairy yogurt, which provides a creamy base without the heaviness of traditional dairy. The addition of lemon juice and zest adds brightness, while a touch of sweetener balances the tartness. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
Whether you’re a vegan baker or just looking for a healthier dessert option, this lemon yogurt mousse is a must-try. Its quick preparation and minimal ingredients make it perfect for busy days or last-minute dessert needs. Let’s explore why this recipe works so well and how to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240g) full-fat coconut yogurt (unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons (24g) maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon (1g) lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup (40g) fresh berries or lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Whisk Ingredients In a medium bowl, combine coconut yogurt, maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and fully combined. 💡 Tip: Use a hand mixer for extra smoothness if desired.
- Step 2: Chill and Set Transfer the mixture to serving bowls or ramekins. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.
- Step 3: Top and Serve Before serving, garnish with fresh berries, lemon slices, or a drizzle of additional lemon juice. Serve chilled for the best flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
This mousse takes just 5 minutes to make with no baking or special equipment. It’s perfect for last-minute desserts or busy days.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Made with simple, affordable ingredients like coconut yogurt and lemon juice, this recipe is both cost-effective and delicious.
👥 Versatile
Customize it with different fruits, sweeteners, or flavor extracts to suit your taste or dietary needs.
🌟 Healthy & Light
Low in calories, dairy-free, and packed with probiotics from the coconut yogurt, it’s a guilt-free treat.
Light Lemon Yogurt Mousse
A quick, vegan, and low-calorie dessert perfect for any occasion.
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 cup (240g) full-fat coconut yogurt (unsweetened)
- - 2 tablespoons (24g) maple syrup or agave nectar
- - 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- - 1 teaspoon (1g) lemon zest
- - 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) vanilla extract
- - Pinch of salt
- - Optional: 1/4 cup (40g) fresh berries or lemon slices for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions
Whisk Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine coconut yogurt, maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
💡 Use a hand mixer for extra smoothness if desired.
Chill and Set: Transfer the mixture to serving bowls or ramekins. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.
💡 For best results, chill overnight.
Top and Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh berries, lemon slices, or a drizzle of additional lemon juice. Serve chilled for the best flavor.
💡 Add a dollop of coconut cream for extra richness.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Coconut Yogurt
The base of this mousse, it provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Use full-fat for the best consistency.
Substitutions: Greek yogurt (for non-vegan) or cashew cream for a nut-based option.
Maple Syrup
Adds natural sweetness without refined sugar. You can adjust the amount to taste.
Substitutions: Honey, agave nectar, or coconut nectar.
Lemon Juice & Zest
The zesty flavor is essential for balancing the sweetness. Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Substitutions: Lime juice for a different citrus twist.
Vanilla Extract
Enhances the overall flavor profile. Use pure vanilla for the best results.
Substitutions: Almond extract for a nutty twist.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Yogurt Mousse
🍋 Boost Flavor
Add a pinch of ground cardamom or a splash of orange zest for extra depth.
✨ Texture Hack
Chill the mixing bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes before making to ensure a silky texture.
🌿 Vegan Tip
Use a vegan sweetener like monk fruit or date syrup for a zero-refined-sugar option.
❄️ Freezing Tip
Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Variations & Customizations
Berry Blast
Add 1/2 cup mixed berries to the mousse mixture for a burst of color and tartness.
Citrus Twist
Swap lemon for orange or grapefruit zest and juice for a different citrus flavor.
Spiced Mousse
Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced variation.
Chocolate Drizzle
Top with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a cocoa powder dusting.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Crunchy almond cookies or shortbread for a textural contrast
- Steamed jasmine rice for a light, Asian-inspired pairing
- Fresh mint leaves for a refreshing garnish
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with a lemon twist.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the mousse up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Storage
Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The texture may slightly thicken over time.
Freezer Storage
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir before serving.
Reheating Instructions
No reheating needed—serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My mousse is too runny. What can I do?
A: Chill it longer or add 1/2 teaspoon of agar-agar powder to firm it up.
Q: Can I use a different type of sweetener?
A: Yes! Any liquid sweetener like honey or date syrup works well. Adjust to taste.
Q: How do I make it sweeter without refined sugar?
A: Add a ripe banana or use a natural sweetener like monk fruit.
Q: Can I add fruit to the mousse?
A: Absolutely! Fold in fresh berries, kiwi, or mango for extra flavor and color.
Final Thoughts
This lemon yogurt mousse is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dessert. Its simplicity and versatility make it perfect for any occasion, from Thanksgiving to a light afternoon snack. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with variations, this mousse is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you—this dessert packs a flavorful punch that’s anything but basic. With its refreshing lemon flavor and creamy texture, it’s a treat that’s as satisfying as it is guilt-free. Give it a try and see why this mousse is a favorite for both vegans and non-vegans alike!
