Zero-Carb Lime Cheesecake Mousse Cup
A creamy, refreshing, and ultra-light dessert with bright lime flavor and fluffy cheesecake texture. This flour-free, sugar-free treat is perfect for anyone following a keto or carnivore-friendly lifestyle (depending on ingredient choices).
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Cheesecake Mousse
- 8 oz (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for extra stability)
Crunchy Topping (Optional)
- ¼ cup crushed pork rinds (for zero-carb crunch)
- OR crushed keto cereal (if not strictly zero carb)
Garnish
- Thin lime slices
- Fresh lime zest
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Whip the Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Base
In another bowl, beat together:
- Cream cheese
- Powdered sweetener
- Vanilla
- Lime zest
- Lime juice
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Fold Together
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
If using xanthan gum, sprinkle it in while mixing.
Step 4: Assemble
Layer the mousse into serving cups.
If desired, sprinkle a little crushed pork rind or keto cereal between layers for added crunch.
Finish with:
- Extra lime zest
- Lime slices
- Crunch topping
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving for the best texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Net Carbs | 2g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Fat | 36g |
| Saturated Fat | 22g |
| Cholesterol | 115mg |
| Sodium | 180mg |
Note: Despite the title, this recipe is not truly zero-carb because cream cheese and lime juice naturally contain small amounts of carbohydrates. Using the ingredients above results in approximately 2g net carbs per serving.
Tips
- Chill your mixing bowl before whipping the cream for maximum volume.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture.
- Fresh lime zest provides the strongest citrus flavor.
- For a firmer mousse, chill overnight.
- Serve in clear cups to showcase the beautiful layers.
Variations
Lemon Cheesecake Mousse
Replace the lime juice and zest with fresh lemon.
Chocolate Version
Mix in 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder.
Berry Version
Top with a few fresh raspberries or blueberries if you’re not following a strict low-carb diet.
Coconut Lime
Add 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nut Information
Contains Peanuts? ❌ No
Contains Tree Nuts? ❌ No
Nut-Free Recipe: ✅ Yes
Allergy Note: This recipe is naturally nut-free. If using a store-bought keto cereal or other crunchy topping, check the label for potential nut ingredients or cross-contamination warnings.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
2. Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, but bottled lime juice will work in a pinch.
3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?
Yes, though the texture will be lighter and tangier, and the carbohydrate content may change.
4. Is this keto-friendly?
Yes. With approximately 2g net carbs per serving, it fits well into most ketogenic meal plans.
5. Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze in individual cups and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
6. What sweetener works best?
Powdered monk fruit or powdered erythritol blends create the smoothest texture without a gritty finish.
7. Can I skip the crunchy topping?
Absolutely. The mousse is delicious on its own with a creamy, airy texture.
