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Lebanese Date & Orange Blossom Mousse: A Creamy Delight Recipe

4.6 from 68 reviews

This Lebanese Date & Orange Blossom Mousse is a luscious, creamy dessert that combines the natural sweetness of Medjool dates with fragrant orange blossom essence. Lightened with whipped cream and Greek yogurt, it’s a delicate, refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup pitted Medjool dates, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup water

Dairy and Sweeteners

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup pure honey

Flavorings

  • 1 tablespoon orange blossom essence
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • Zest from 1 orange

Toppings (Optional)

  • Chopped pistachios for topping

Instructions

  1. Soften the Dates: Place the finely chopped Medjool dates in a saucepan with 1/2 cup of water. Heat over medium flame, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the dates become soft and pliable.
  2. Cool the Dates: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the softened dates cool for a few minutes to prevent cooking the yogurt later.
  3. Blend the Date Mixture: Transfer the softened dates and any leftover water into a blender or food processor. Add Greek yogurt, honey, orange blossom essence, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with a mixer or whisk until soft peaks form, making it light and fluffy.
  5. Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the date and yogurt mixture. Carefully combine them to maintain the mousse’s airy texture without deflating the cream.
  6. Add Orange Zest: Incorporate the orange zest gently into the mousse, folding it in evenly to infuse the dessert with fresh citrus notes.
  7. Chill the Mousse: Spoon the mousse into serving cups or bowls. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to firm up.
  8. Serve with Toppings: Before serving, sprinkle the mousse with chopped pistachios for an optional crunchy contrast that complements the creamy texture.

Notes

  • Use Medjool dates for their natural sweetness and soft texture.
  • Ensure the dates are cooled before blending with yogurt to prevent curdling.
  • Whip the cream just until soft peaks form to keep the mousse light and airy.
  • Orange blossom essence adds a unique floral aroma; use pure quality essence for the best flavor.
  • The mousse can be prepared a day in advance and kept covered in the refrigerator.
  • For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream and yogurt with coconut cream and plant-based yogurt respectively.
  • Chopped pistachios are optional but add a lovely texture and flavor contrast.

Keywords: Lebanese dessert, date mousse, orange blossom, creamy mousse, healthy dessert, Mediterranean sweets