Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake
This Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake is an exquisite dessert that will wow your guests and provide a delightful treat for yourself. It’s perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a summer barbecue, a birthday celebration, or simply a cozy evening at home. The combination of zesty lemon mousse, sweet blueberry compote, and buttery shortbread crust creates a refreshing yet indulgent experience in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of tart lemon and sweet blueberries makes every mouthful a burst of flavor.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, this cake is accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, this dessert fits right in.
- Stunning Presentation: The layered look of the mousse and compote gives it an eye-catching appeal that impresses everyone.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and chill it until ready to serve, making it stress-free for events.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking the Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 9-inch springform pan
- Saucepan
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Speeds up the process of mixing ingredients for the shortbread crust.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Helps achieve stiff peaks when whipping the cream, giving the mousse its light texture.
- Springform pan: Allows easy removal of the cake without damaging its delicate structure.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Pinch of salt
For the Lemon Mousse:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon gelatin powder
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Blueberry Compote:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust
- Combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Mousse
- Heat lemon juice over low heat in a saucepan until warm.
- Stir in bloomed gelatin until dissolved. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature.
- In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, whip the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the lemon juice mixture while continuing to beat until combined.
- Fold in whipped cream until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
- Pour the lemon mousse over the cooled shortbread crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
Step 4: Serve
- Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cake.
- Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Slice into servings and enjoy chilled!
With these simple steps, you can create a stunning Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake that will surely be a hit!
How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake
Serving your Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this stunning cake at your next gathering or dinner party.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Fresh blueberries and raspberries add a burst of flavor and color to each slice.
- Drizzle with a bit of honey for added sweetness.
Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the cake’s creamy texture.
- Garnish with lemon zest for an extra zing.
Serve with Lemon Sorbet
- A refreshing lemon sorbet provides a tart contrast to the rich mousse cake.
- Serve in a small scoop alongside each slice.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Arrange slices of the cake with assorted fruits and cookies for a beautiful dessert board.
- Include mini meringues for added texture.
Top with Toasted Coconut
- Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical twist.
- This adds both visual appeal and a crunchy texture.
Drizzle with Blueberry Compote
- Enhance the flavor by drizzling homemade blueberry compote over each slice.
- The compote can be made ahead and served warm or chilled.

How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake
To achieve the ultimate Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill Before Serving – Refrigerating the cake for longer ensures it sets properly, making it easier to slice.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh lemons and blueberries enhance the flavors and freshness of your mousse cake.
- Don’t Overmix – When folding in whipped cream, mix gently to maintain its airy texture for the lightest mousse.
- Adjust Sweetness – Taste your blueberry compote before serving; feel free to adjust sugar levels according to your preference.
- Experiment with Flavors – Try adding vanilla extract or almond essence to the mousse for a unique flavor twist.
- Presentation Matters – Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and serve on elegant plates for an impressive display.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake
To complement your Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake, consider serving these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.
- Minted Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed with fresh mint leaves offers brightness alongside dessert.
- Coconut Macaroons – Chewy coconut treats provide a sweet contrast to the creamy mousse cake.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins – These fluffy muffins echo the lemony notes in your cake while adding variety to your dessert spread.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of soft cheeses pairs well, balancing out the sweetness of the mousse cake beautifully.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries – Juicy strawberries dipped in chocolate create an indulgent pairing that guests will love.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Classic vanilla ice cream enhances the flavors without overpowering them, making it an ideal accompaniment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using butter that is not cold enough can lead to a greasy crust. Ensure your butter is cold and cubed for the perfect texture.
- Overmixing the Mousse: This can cause the mousse to become dense instead of light and airy. Gently fold in the whipped cream for the best results.
- Not Blooming Gelatin Properly: If you skip blooming gelatin, it won’t dissolve correctly. Always mix gelatin with cold water and let it sit before heating.
- Skipping Chilling Time: This dessert requires proper chilling to set. Don’t rush this step—refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or frozen blueberries can affect flavor. Opt for fresh blueberries whenever possible for a vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the cake with foil and warm it for about 10-15 minutes until slightly softened.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts of 15 seconds until just warm.
- Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, gently warm each slice while covering it with a lid to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake.
Can I use other fruits in this mousse cake?
Yes! Feel free to replace blueberries with raspberries or strawberries for different flavors.
How do I make the crust gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends. The texture may vary slightly.
What if I don’t have gelatin?
You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative, but adjust quantities according to package instructions.
How long does it take for the mousse to set?
The mousse needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator, but overnight is ideal for best texture.
Is this dessert suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! The Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake is elegant and perfect for celebrations or gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake is not only beautiful but also incredibly delicious. Its balance of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries makes it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite berries or add layers of flavor by incorporating other citrus fruits. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful results!

Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake is a stunning dessert that beautifully balances zesty lemon and sweet blueberries, making it perfect for any occasion. With its buttery shortbread crust, creamy lemon mousse, and luscious blueberry compote, each bite is a delightful treat that will impress your guests and elevate your gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this cake is sure to be the highlight of your dessert table. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to chill it until ready to serve. Dive into this refreshing dessert and delight in its elegant flavors!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, combine flour, powdered sugar, butter, and salt. Pulse until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the base of a springform pan and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden. Let cool.
- In a saucepan, warm lemon juice over low heat; dissolve bloomed gelatin in it. Cool slightly.
- Beat heavy cream with granulated sugar and lemon zest until stiff peaks form. Mix cream cheese until smooth; blend in lemon mixture. Fold in whipped cream gently.
- Pour lemon mousse over cooled crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg