When the sun is shining and the temperature rises, nothing beats a chilled, creamy dessert. This Ice Cream Dessert with 4 Ingredients is a refreshing twist on the classic mousse, infused with bright lemon flavor and balanced sweetness.
It’s a perfect make-ahead treat for summer gatherings, family dinners, or when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? You only need four main ingredients and a few simple steps.
The magic of this dessert comes from the combination of silky lemon mousse with the gentle wobble of gelatin cubes. Each spoonful delivers a refreshing burst of citrus and a melt-in-your-mouth creaminess.
Ingredients for the Dessert
- 2 packets lemon-flavored gelatin
- 1 ¾ cups boiling water (400 ml)
- 1 ¾ cups cold water (400 ml)
- ¾ cup heavy cream (200 ml / 6.8 fl oz)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (395 g / 14 oz)
- ⅓ cup lemon juice (100 ml, about 3–4 lemons)
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
Preparing the Lemon Gelatin
The gelatin adds a refreshing and playful texture to this dessert, while also giving it a beautiful visual appeal when combined with the mousse.
Step 1 – Dissolve the gelatin
In a medium bowl, pour boiling water over the two packets of lemon-flavored gelatin. Stir thoroughly until every bit of gelatin has dissolved. This ensures a smooth, consistent texture with no graininess.
Step 2 – Add cold water
Slowly add the cold water to the dissolved gelatin, stirring as you pour. This helps cool the mixture quickly, allowing it to set faster.
Step 3 – Speed up the chilling
Divide the gelatin mixture between two containers. Smaller containers chill faster, which is perfect if you’re pressed for time.
Step 4 – Chill until firm
Place the containers in the refrigerator for about 2 hours or until the gelatin is completely set. It should be firm enough to cut into cubes without losing its shape.
Preparing the Lemon Mousse
The mousse is the heart of the dessert, providing a creamy contrast to the gelatin’s light and bouncy texture.
Step 1 – Mix the cream and condensed milk
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream with the sweetened condensed milk. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend until smooth and uniform.
Step 2 – Add lemon juice slowly
Gradually pour in the lemon juice while continuing to stir. The acid in the lemon juice will naturally thicken the mixture as it reacts with the condensed milk. This is what gives the mousse its rich and velvety consistency.
Step 3 – Check the texture
Once the mousse is smooth and slightly thickened, set it aside until the gelatin cubes are ready.
Assembling the Dessert
This dessert is best when layered attractively, so every spoonful has a balance of mousse and gelatin.
Step 1 – Cut the gelatin
Once the gelatin has set, cut it into medium-sized cubes. Uniform pieces not only look more appealing but also make the dessert easier to serve.
Step 2 – Arrange in the serving dish
In a glass dish or individual dessert cups, arrange the gelatin cubes evenly. You can place some along the edges for a decorative look.
Step 3 – Add the mousse
Pour or spoon the lemon mousse over the gelatin cubes, gently pressing down to fill in any gaps. The mousse should fully cover the gelatin layer.
Step 4 – Garnish
Sprinkle lemon zest over the top for a burst of color and extra citrus aroma. This small detail elevates the presentation and flavor.
Chilling and Serving
Step 1 – Final chilling
Place the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 more hours. This allows the mousse to firm up and the flavors to meld.
Step 2 – Serve chilled
Before serving, check that the dessert is firm to the touch. Use a spoon to scoop generous portions, making sure to include both mousse and gelatin in every serving.
Tips for the Perfect Ice Cream Dessert
- Use fresh lemon juice – Bottled juice can be too acidic or flat in flavor. Freshly squeezed juice brings brightness and aroma.
- Control sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the condensed milk slightly or use unsweetened heavy cream.
- Experiment with flavors – Try substituting lemon gelatin with orange, tangerine, or even strawberry for a different twist.
- Add texture – For a bit of crunch, sprinkle crushed cookies or biscuit crumbs on top before chilling.
- Make it in advance – This dessert tastes even better after resting overnight in the fridge, as the flavors deepen.
- Serve in individual cups – Perfect for parties and avoids messy slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sugar-free gelatin?
Yes, sugar-free gelatin works well, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the sweetness level.
Can I replace heavy cream with whipping cream?
Yes. Whipping cream works perfectly and will make the mousse lighter in texture.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based condensed milk alternative. The flavor will change, but it will still be creamy.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. After that, the texture of the mousse and gelatin may start to break down.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Freezing is not recommended, as gelatin-based desserts tend to lose their texture once thawed.
What size dish should I use?
A medium glass dish (about 8×8 inches) works well. You can also use individual dessert cups for a more elegant presentation.