Avocado Lime Mousse

Avocado Lime Mousse is a refreshing, creamy dessert that perfectly balances the richness of ripe avocados with the zesty brightness of lime. This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthier choice for satisfying your sweet tooth. Its smooth, velvety texture and vibrant flavor make it an ideal treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
• 1 teaspoon lime zest, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Avocados

1. Peel and Pit: Start by preparing the avocados. Cut each avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a blender or food processor. Make sure the avocados are ripe to ensure a smooth texture. A ripe avocado should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be overly soft or mushy.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

1. Add Condensed Milk: Add the sweetened condensed milk to the blender with the avocado flesh. Sweetened condensed milk provides the mousse with a rich sweetness and a smooth consistency.
2. Add Lime Juice and Zest: Pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice and add the lime zest. Lime juice adds a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the avocado, while the zest enhances the citrus aroma.
3. Add Vanilla Extract: Include the vanilla extract to add a subtle depth of flavor that complements the lime and avocado.
4. Blend Until Smooth: Blend all the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Cream

1. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks using a hand mixer or whisk. The whipped cream adds a light and airy texture to the mousse.
2. Fold in Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the avocado mixture. Use a spatula to carefully combine the whipped cream without deflating it, preserving the mousse’s light texture. This step should be done gently and thoroughly to maintain the mousse’s smoothness and ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Chill the Mousse

1. Transfer to Serving Dishes: Spoon the avocado lime mousse into individual serving glasses or bowls. This not only makes it easier to serve but also adds an elegant presentation.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the mousse for at least 1-2 hours to allow it to set and chill thoroughly. Chilling the mousse enhances its flavors and gives it a firmer, more cohesive texture.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Just before serving, garnish the mousse with additional lime zest for a burst of color and extra citrus flavor. Fresh mint leaves can also be added for a refreshing touch and visual appeal.
2. Serve: Serve the avocado lime mousse chilled. This dessert pairs well with a variety of dishes and is a perfect light finish to any meal.

Cooking Notes

• Avocado Selection: Use ripe avocados for the best texture and flavor. Ripe avocados are key to achieving a creamy consistency without any graininess.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sweetened condensed milk. You can also use alternative sweeteners like honey or agave syrup if you prefer.
• Citrus Variations: For a different flavor profile, try using lemon juice and zest instead of lime. The lemon will offer a slightly different citrus note that is equally refreshing.

Variations

Low-Carb Version:

• Use a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk alternative and a low-carb sweetener to keep the recipe low in carbohydrates.

Dairy-Free Version:

• Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free version and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. This will maintain the creamy texture while making the dish suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.

Vegan Version:

• Use a plant-based sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream. Ensure all ingredients, such as vanilla extract, are vegan-friendly.

Tips for Perfect Mousse

• Smooth Texture: Blend the avocado mixture until completely smooth to ensure a creamy texture. Any lumps can affect the overall mouthfeel of the mousse.
• Folding Technique: Fold the whipped cream gently into the avocado mixture to maintain the mousse’s light and airy consistency. Over-mixing can deflate the whipped cream and result in a denser mousse.
• Chilling Time: Allow enough chilling time for the mousse to set properly. This not only improves the texture but also melds the flavors together beautifully.

Avocado Lime Mousse is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and refreshing citrus flavor. This healthy treat is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the avocados. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a light dessert after dinner, this mousse is sure to impress. The smooth, tangy, and sweet flavors come together to create an elegant and satisfying dessert that you will want to make again and again. Enjoy this elegant and nutritious dessert, and watch it become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!

Enjoy your Avocado Lime Mousse!