Lemon Fresh Chilled Dessert (Printable)
A chilled lemon treat blending zesty citrus with creamy layers for a light, satisfying finish.
# What You'll Need:
→ Lemon Base
01 - 3 large lemons, zested and juiced
02 - ½ cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 cup water
04 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
→ Cream Layer
05 - ¾ cup cold heavy cream
06 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Garnish
08 - Lemon zest, for topping
09 - Fresh mint leaves (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 - In a small saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, zest, granulated sugar, water, and cornstarch until fully dissolved.
02 - Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened and glossy, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
03 - Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
04 - Fold half of the whipped cream gently into the cooled lemon base until smooth and fully incorporated.
05 - Distribute the lemon-cream mixture evenly into four dessert glasses. Refrigerate for at least two hours to chill.
06 - Top each serving with the remaining whipped cream, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve chilled.
# Expert Hacks:
01 -
- This dessert balances citrusy brightness with smooth creaminess like a perfect summer breeze
- It's simple enough for a quick whip-up yet impressive enough to wow unexpected guests
02 -
- Make sure to whisk the cornstarch fully so you avoid any lumps; this little step saves you from a tricky texture
- Folding the whipped cream gently is what keeps the dessert light and airy, breaking down the cream too much will weigh it down
03 -
- Use room temperature lemon juice for better dissolution of cornstarch and sugar
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer before whipping cream to speed up soft peaks forming