3-Ingredient Lemon Cloud Mousse

3-Ingredient Lemon Cloud Mousse

This dessert is incredibly simple to whip up and relies on the chemical reaction between lemon juice and milk proteins to create its unique, velvety structure.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups Evaporated Milk, chilled (It must be very cold to whip properly)

  • ½ cup Fresh Lemon Juice (approx. 2–3 lemons)

  • ½ cup Granulated Sugar Substitute (or regular sugar, depending on your preference)

  • Optional: Fresh lemon zest for garnish.


Instructions

  1. Chill the Milk: For the best results, place your can of evaporated milk in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or 30 minutes in the freezer) before starting. The colder the milk, the fluffier your mousse will be.

  2. Whip to Soft Peaks: Pour the chilled evaporated milk into a large, cold mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the milk on high speed for about 3–5 minutes until it doubles in volume and looks thick and foamy.

  3. Add Sweetness: While continuing to beat the milk, gradually add your sugar or sweetener. Continue whipping until the mixture begins to look like whipped cream.

  4. The “Magic” Step: Slowly pour in the lemon juice while keeping the mixer running. You will notice the mixture instantly begins to thicken and stiffen. This is the lemon juice “setting” the milk proteins. Continue beating for another minute until it is very thick and holds its shape.

  5. Set and Serve: Spoon the mousse into a large glass serving bowl or individual ramekins. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.

  6. Final Chill: Place the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow it to set completely. This gives it that “treasure-like” airy texture seen in your photo.


Pro Tips for Success

  • Don’t skip the chill: If the milk is room temperature, it will not whip; it will just stay liquid.

  • The Zest: Folding in a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest at the very end adds a beautiful pop of color and an extra hit of citrus aroma.

  • Serving: This is delicious on its own, but it also makes a great topping for fresh berries or a crust made of crushed biscuits.

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