Looking for a refreshing, light, and guilt-free dessert? Chilled lemon Greek yogurt mousse might just be the perfect answer. This no-bake treat blends the tangy brightness of fresh lemon with the creamy richness of Greek yogurt, creating a mousse that’s both airy and satisfying. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving something light after dinner, this dessert offers the perfect mix of citrus zing and cool comfort.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what makes this mousse so unique, its health benefits, how to make it easily at home, and delicious flavor variations to try. You’ll also find answers to common questions like whether it’s safe to mix yogurt and lemon, how the mousse sets without gelatin, and what ingredients give it that signature fluff.
Check out our guide to other healthy indulgences like Greek yogurt with berries and more in our no-bake dessert recipes.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Is Chilled Lemon Greek Yogurt Mousse?
What Makes It Different from Traditional Mousse?
Traditional mousse recipes often rely on heavy cream, sugar, and eggs—or gelatin—to achieve their signature airy texture. But chilled lemon Greek yogurt mousse breaks that mold with a lighter, protein-rich twist. By using thick, creamy Greek yogurt as the base, you skip the extra fat without sacrificing flavor.
This version is:
- Lighter in calories
- Naturally high in protein
- Tangy and refreshing, especially on hot days
- Easier to digest compared to dairy-heavy mousse
Plus, it’s quick to prep, no baking required, and can be served in elegant glasses or simple jars for a casual treat.
Why Use Greek Yogurt for Mousse?
Greek yogurt adds more than just texture—it brings:
- Natural thickness that mimics whipped cream
- A rich mouthfeel without excess fat
- Tanginess that balances the acidity of lemon juice
- Probiotics that support gut health
The combination of Greek yogurt and lemon is not only delicious but functional. The acidity in the lemon helps stabilize the mousse and adds brightness to the overall flavor. It’s no wonder this chilled treat is becoming a summer favorite.
If you’re a fan of easy, creamy snacks, don’t miss our reader-favorite honey yogurt dip recipe for fruits, which shares the same tangy base.
What Happens When You Combine Lemon and Greek Yogurt?
How Lemon Juice Reacts with Yogurt
When lemon juice meets Greek yogurt, something magical—and scientific—happens. The natural acids in lemon juice cause a gentle curdling effect when mixed with the proteins in yogurt, thickening the texture slightly. But don’t worry—this is exactly what makes chilled lemon Greek yogurt mousse smooth and velvety without needing gelatin or heavy cream.
Why This Matters in Mousse:
- The citric acid gently binds with yogurt proteins, enhancing the structure
- The result? A stable, creamy base that holds its shape after chilling
- No heating required—this reaction happens cold, making it perfect for no-bake recipes
The acidity also balances the tang of the yogurt, creating a bright, refreshing flavor profile that’s both sweet and tart. It’s this interplay that gives lemon yogurt mousse its signature zing.
Is It OK to Mix Yogurt and Lemon?
Yes—it’s completely safe and even beneficial to mix lemon with Greek yogurt. In fact, this combination has been used for centuries in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Ayurvedic cooking. Lemon enhances both the taste and the nutritional value of yogurt-based dishes.
Benefits of Combining Yogurt and Lemon:
- Enhances digestion
- Boosts vitamin C and probiotic content
- Helps preserve the mousse naturally by lowering the pH
- Acts as a flavor booster without needing much added sugar
The myth that lemon “spoils” dairy comes from traditional milk-based recipes—but cultured products like Greek yogurt behave differently. The acidity in lemon actually stabilizes yogurt-based mousse, making it ideal for no-bake desserts.
These easy homemade Greek yogurt popsicles are a refreshing activity the whole family can enjoy.
Chilled Lemon Greek Yogurt Mousse: Light, Tangy, and Guilt-Free
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: No-Bake Dessert
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Description
This chilled lemon Greek yogurt mousse is a light, tangy, and protein-rich no-bake dessert. Made with just a few natural ingredients, it’s perfect for hot days or when you want a refreshing treat without guilt. Naturally sweetened, it’s fluffy, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor.
Ingredients
1½ cups full-fat plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2–3 tablespoons raw honey (or maple syrup)
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional: ¼ cup whipped coconut cream (for fluffier texture)
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, zest, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly airy.
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(Optional) Fold in whipped coconut cream gently for added lightness.
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Divide into small dessert jars or cups.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
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Top with fresh fruit, lemon zest, or crushed nuts before serving.
Notes
Best when consumed within 3 days.
Garnish just before serving for the freshest look and texture.
Adjust lemon and honey to balance tartness and sweetness as preferred.
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 9g
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
How Long Does Lemon Yogurt Mousse Last?
One of the best things about chilled lemon Greek yogurt mousse is that it stores beautifully, making it ideal for prepping ahead of time. When stored properly, the mousse maintains its texture and flavor for days—making it a go-to for healthy snacking or easy entertaining.
Shelf Life (Refrigerated):
- 3 to 4 days in airtight containers
- Flavor intensifies over time, but texture may soften slightly by Day 4
- Best enjoyed within 48 hours for peak fluffiness and freshness
Best Containers and Chilling Tips
For the best results, proper storage and serving containers make a big difference in presentation and preservation.
Storage Tips:
- Use glass jars with lids or silicone dessert molds
- Cover mousse with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent skin from forming
- Don’t freeze—Greek yogurt tends to separate and lose creaminess when thawed
- If using for a party or event, portion into individual cups or ramekins before chilling
Chilling Suggestions:
- Chill for at least 4 hours before serving
- Keep refrigerated until just before serving, especially on warm days
- Garnish with zest or toppings just before eating to avoid sogginess
Try a different texture with our fun and fruity Greek yogurt bark, ready in minutes.
Conclusion: Light, Tangy, and Effortless Indulgence
If you’re searching for a refreshing, easy-to-make treat that doesn’t compromise flavor or health, chilled lemon Greek yogurt mousse delivers on all fronts. It’s creamy, naturally sweet, and bursting with bright citrus flavor—all without baking, gelatin, or heavy cream.
From digestive health to immune-boosting benefits, this mousse goes beyond just dessert. It’s the kind of recipe that fits into busy lifestyles, healthy diets, and warm-weather cravings alike.
Get inspired with more sweet ideas using Greek yogurt — explore our must-read list: 10 Greek Yogurt Dessert Recipes You’ll Love.
FAQs
What happens when you put lemon juice in Greek yogurt?
When lemon juice is added to Greek yogurt, the citric acid interacts with the yogurt’s proteins, causing a gentle thickening effect. This creates a smoother, slightly firmer texture—perfect for no-bake desserts like chilled lemon Greek yogurt mousse. It also brightens the flavor, giving your mousse a naturally tangy and refreshing taste.
How to make easy lemon mousse?
To make a quick and easy lemon mousse, whisk together full-fat Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, honey (or another natural sweetener), and a splash of vanilla extract. Chill for 3–4 hours until set. For an even fluffier texture, fold in a bit of whipped coconut cream or serve layered with fruit for a parfait-style presentation.
Is it OK to mix yogurt and lemon?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe and even beneficial to mix lemon with yogurt. The acidity of lemon doesn’t spoil Greek yogurt—it enhances its flavor and helps firm up the texture. This makes it a fantastic combo for mousse, dips, smoothies, and marinades.
Can you make mousse with yogurt?
Absolutely. Yogurt, especially Greek yogurt, is a great base for mousse. It delivers creaminess, natural tang, and high protein—all without the heaviness of cream or eggs. The result is a light, fluffy dessert that feels indulgent but is actually healthy. Chilled lemon Greek yogurt mousse is a perfect example of how versatile yogurt can be in dessert-making.
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