Lemon mousse cake

Lemon Mousse Cake - A Delicacy Dedicated to My Father

Whenever we celebrate a special day, like a loved one's birthday, it's important to bring a smile to their face. Today, I will share with you the recipe for a lemon mousse cake, an elegant and refined dessert that combines the freshness of citrus with the delicate texture of mousse. This recipe is dedicated to my father, who is always a source of inspiration and love. Happy birthday, Dad!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 4-5 hours
Total time: 4-5 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 10-12 servings

Ingredients:

- 3 large eggs (preferably fresh)
- 5 tablespoons of sugar (natural sweetener, optional)
- 2 packets of gelatin (approximately 20 g)
- 150 ml of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 200 ml of water
- 200 ml of heavy cream (use a high-fat cream for a firm texture)
- 1 package of ladyfingers (approximately 200 g)
- Fresh fruits for decoration: kiwi, pineapple, peaches, cherries, etc. (choose your favorite fruits)
- Fruit juice to soak the ladyfingers (you can use orange juice, apple juice, or even a sugar syrup)
- Grated lemon and orange zest (to enhance the flavors)

Preparation:

1. Prepare the pan: Start by lining a pan with plastic wrap, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal of the cake.

2. Soak the ladyfingers: Prepare a juice mixture (for example, orange juice) to soak the ladyfingers. Allow the ladyfingers to absorb the liquid for a few minutes. Arrange a single layer of ladyfingers at the bottom of the pan.

3. Make the mousse: Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until foamy. Gradually add the 5 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve stiff peaks. In a small saucepan, melt the gelatin over low heat, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Then, add the 150 ml of lemon juice and 200 ml of water, mixing well.

4. Combine the ingredients: In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the grated lemon and orange zest. Start adding the melted gelatin, stirring quickly to prevent coagulation. Then, gently fold in the whipped cream, followed by the beaten egg whites. Mix lightly with a folding motion to maintain the air in the mousse.

5. Assemble the cake: Pour about 4 cm of the mousse mixture over the layer of ladyfingers in the pan. Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mousse. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate to set for 4-5 hours, or overnight if you have time.

6. Decorate the cake: Once the cake has set, carefully remove it from the pan by cutting the plastic wrap. Place it on a serving platter and decorate it with fresh fruits arranged artistically. If desired, you can add a thin layer of colored gelatin over the fruits for a glossy finish.

7. Serving: To add a touch of elegance, decorate the edge of the cake with whipped cream. Serve with a smile and share the special recipe you created with your loved ones.

Practical tips:

- Choose high-quality ladyfingers, as they add a crunchy and absorbent texture.
- The gelatin must be well dissolved; otherwise, you’ll have an uneven texture. Make sure to stir constantly while melting it.
- Use heavy cream for a stable mousse.
- Fresh fruits not only enhance the cake's appearance but also add a delicious flavor.

Nutritional information (approximate, per serving):

- Calories: 215 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace gelatin with another ingredient?
Answer: Yes, you can use agar-agar for a vegetarian option, but be sure to follow specific preparation instructions.

2. Can I use store-bought lemon juice instead of fresh juice?
Answer: While it's possible, fresh lemon juice provides a much more vibrant and natural flavor.

3. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Answer: Reduce the amount of sugar added to the mousse or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup.

This lemon mousse cake is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of love and the memories created around the table. Enjoy every slice and share it with your loved ones, bringing joy and warmth to every moment. Bon appétit!