Two-Tone Lemonade Mousse
Description:
This refreshing and visually striking dessert is perfect for summer gatherings like the 4th of July. It’s a delightful combination of tart lemonade flavors and a smooth mousse texture. The two-tone effect, created by the contrasting colors of the pink grapefruit and plain lemonade mixtures, adds an elegant touch that will impress your guests. Not only is this mousse a treat for the eyes, but it’s also light and tangy, making it an ideal dessert for warm weather.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Unflavored gelatin | 1 envelope |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Fresh blueberries | 2/3 cup |
| Lemon slices | 4 slices |
| Pink grapefruit slices | 1 slice |
| Lemon peel curls | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Whipping cream (for whipping) | 3/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 54.3 mg |
| Sodium | 19.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 29.6 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugars | 27 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Gelatin Mixture:
In a small saucepan, combine 1/3 cup sugar with 1 packet of unflavored gelatin. Add 2/3 cup of water and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat. -
Add Lemonade Flavor:
Stir in the remaining 1/3 cup water and lemonade concentrate. Mix thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. -
Separate the Mixture:
Divide the mixture evenly between two medium-sized bowls. In one bowl, stir in a few drops of red food coloring to create a pink mixture. Leave the other portion plain. -
Chill the Mixtures:
Cover both bowls and place them in the refrigerator for about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the mixtures are thickened and mound when stirred. -
Whip the Cream:
In a chilled bowl, beat the whipping cream with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form (the tips should curl). Set the whipped cream aside. -
Foam the Mixtures:
Wash your beaters and then beat the plain lemonade mixture with the electric mixer for about 30 seconds, or until light and foamy. Repeat this process with the pink lemonade mixture. -
Fold in the Whipped Cream:
Gently fold half of the whipped cream into each of the lemonade mixtures. Be careful not to deflate the mousse mixture. -
Layer the Mousse:
Carefully spoon the plain lemonade mousse into the bottoms of 6 small serving glasses or dessert dishes, then layer the pink lemonade mousse on top, dividing both mixtures evenly between the glasses. -
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate the mousse for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up before serving. -
Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving, garnish the mousse with fresh blueberries, slices of lemon and pink grapefruit, and curls of lemon peel for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
This Two-Tone Lemonade Mousse is perfect for any summer celebration, from casual barbecues to more formal gatherings. The vibrant colors and zesty flavors make it a showstopper, while its light and airy texture ensure that it won’t feel too heavy after a big meal. Consider serving it alongside a light, fresh salad or grilled meats for a complete summer menu.
Makes 6 servings.
