Ingredients
Scale
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Mousse:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon gelatin (optional for stability)
For the Blueberry Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh blueberries
- Lemon slices
- Mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Shortbread Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together, being careful not to overmix.
- Press the shortbread dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Prick the surface with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely in the pan.
2. Make the Lemon Mousse:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. If using gelatin, dissolve it in a tablespoon of warm water and mix it into the lemon juice.
- Gently fold the lemon mixture into the whipped cream until fully incorporated, taking care not to deflate the mousse.
3. Prepare the Blueberry Layer:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the blueberry mixture cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the shortbread crust has cooled, pour the lemon mousse over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- After the mousse has set for about 1 hour, spoon the blueberry mixture on top, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
5. Serve:
- Before serving, carefully release the springform pan and remove the cake. Garnish with fresh blueberries, lemon slices, and mint leaves if desired.
- Slice and enjoy your refreshing Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Mousse Cake!