You know those days when you want a dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and just a bit zesty? Enter the Blackberry Lime Lush. This layered masterpiece is everything you need for a no-fuss dessert that delivers on flavor and texture. With a buttery shortbread crust, a tangy lime mousse, and a sweet blackberry filling, it’s like summer in every bite. Oh, and did I mention it’s a breeze to whip up? Let’s dive into this recipe and make your taste buds dance!
What’s a “Lush” Dessert Anyway?
Okay, if you’re new to the world of lush desserts, here’s the scoop. A lush is a layered dessert that typically combines a crumbly crust, a creamy layer (usually mousse or pudding), and some kind of fruit or sweet filling. It’s a cousin of the icebox cake, minus the cookies. The best part? It’s often no-bake or low-bake—which means less oven time and more chill time (literally and figuratively).
In this Blackberry Lime Lush, the tangy lime mousse meets a sweet and slightly tart blackberry filling. Trust me, it’s a flavor combo that’s nothing short of magical.
Ingredients for Blackberry Lime Lush
Here’s everything you need to whip up this dreamy dessert:
The Shortbread Crust
- 2 1/4 cups shortbread cookie crumbs (about two 5.3 oz packages of Walkers Shortbread Rounds)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons salted butter, melted
The Blackberry Filling
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon water
- 1 cup blackberries, mashed
The Mousse Layers
- 20 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
- 2 tablespoons lime zest
Garnish
- Extra blackberries
- Lime slices
- Whipped cream
How to Make Blackberry Lime Lush
This recipe is all about layering, so we’ll take it step by step. Here’s the breakdown:
1. Make the Shortbread Crust
- Crush the Cookies: Use a food processor to crush the shortbread cookies into fine crumbs. No food processor? No problem! Toss those cookies into a zip-top bag and smash them with a rolling pin.
- Mix and Press: In a bowl, combine the crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moist.
- Press It Down: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you prep the filling.
2. Whip Up the Blackberry Filling
- Cook the Berries: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir in the mashed blackberries.
- Heat It Up: Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to bubble (about 3-5 minutes).
- Cool Down: Remove the filling from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare the Lime Mousse
- Cream Cheese Base: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the milk and mix well.
- Whip the Cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until you get stiff peaks.
- Add Lime: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Add the fresh lime juice and zest, folding until everything’s well combined.
4. Assemble the Layers
- Layer 1 – Crust: Your shortbread crust should be nice and firm by now.
- Layer 2 – Blackberry Filling: Spread the cooled blackberry filling evenly over the crust.
- Layer 3 – Lime Mousse: Gently spread the lime mousse over the blackberry layer.
- Chill Time: Pop the whole thing into the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you’ve got the patience).
5. Garnish and Serve
When you’re ready to dig in, top your lush with fresh blackberries, lime slices, and a dollop of whipped cream. Slice, serve, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
Tips for the Best Blackberry Lime Lush
- Chill Properly: Don’t rush the chill time! This helps the layers set up perfectly.
- Fresh Berries: If you can, use fresh blackberries. They’re juicier and have a brighter flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the lime mousse as you go. If it’s too tangy, add a bit more powdered sugar.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 piece | 380 | 24g | 36g | 5g |
Serving Suggestions
- Summer BBQ: This lush is a hit at summer cookouts.
- Brunch Dessert: Yep, brunch needs dessert, and this one’s perfect.
- Midnight Snack: I mean, why not?
Healthier Alternatives
- Swap the Crust: Use a graham cracker crust for a slightly lighter option.
- Less Sugar: Cut the sugar in the filling if you want a tangier dessert.
- Greek Yogurt: Replace some cream cheese with Greek yogurt for added protein.
Other Yummy Recipes
Craving more layered goodness? Check these out:
FAQs
How Long Does Blackberry Lime Lush Last?
It’ll keep in the fridge for about 4-5 days. Just make sure it’s covered tightly.
Can I Use Frozen Blackberries?
Yep! Just thaw and drain them before using.
Is This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Not with the shortbread crust, but you can swap in gluten-free cookies for a GF version.
Conclusion
And there you have it—your new favorite dessert! This Blackberry Lime Lush is the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy. It’s simple to make, fun to eat, and pretty enough to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!
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