Name: Lebanese Date & Orange Blossom Mousse: A Creamy Delight Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted Medjool dates, finely chopped; 1/2 cup water; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup pure honey; 1 tablespoon orange blossom essence; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; Zest from 1 orange; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; Chopped pistachios for topping (optional)

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Introduction

This Lebanese Date & Orange Blossom Mousse is a creamy, fragrant dessert that perfectly balances sweet dates with the delicate aroma of orange blossom. It’s a refreshing and elegant treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Two clear glasses contain a three-layered dessert set on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is smooth and golden yellow, topped by a thick creamy white layer with small grain-like textures. Above this is a rich dark caramel layer spread unevenly over the surface. The dessert is garnished with chopped green pistachios, small pieces of dried fruit, and a sprig of fresh green mint leaves on top. One cut fig with a deep purple skin and pink-red inside rests beside the glasses. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup pitted Medjool dates, finely chopped
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup pure honey
1 tablespoon orange blossom essence
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Zest from 1 orange
Chopped pistachios for topping (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Place the chopped dates in a saucepan with 1/2 cup of water. Heat over medium flame, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the dates soften.
Step 2: Remove from heat and let the dates cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Transfer the softened dates along with any leftover water into a blender or food processor. Add the Greek yogurt, honey, orange blossom essence, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until it forms soft peaks.
Step 5: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the date mixture, ensuring they are well combined without deflating the cream.
Step 6: Gently incorporate the orange zest into the mixture, folding it in to distribute the flavor evenly.
Step 7: Spoon the mousse into serving cups or bowls. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to chill and firm up.
Step 8: When ready to serve, sprinkle the top with chopped pistachios for an added crunch, if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free option, omit the pistachios or substitute with toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
If orange blossom essence is unavailable, a few drops of rose water can provide a similarly floral note.
Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture and best flavor.

Storage

Store the mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, it’s best enjoyed chilled, but you can let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

How to Serve

Two clear round glasses sit on a white marbled surface. Each glass has three distinct layers: the bottom layer is thick and golden-brown, the middle layer is creamy white with small grain-like texture, and the top layer is dark amber with a rough texture from chopped nuts and crushed green pistachios. On top, there is a half fig slice with its inner red and tan seeds visible, a few thin orange zest curls, and a fresh bright green mint leaf. Near the glasses are two fig slices showing their seedy insides. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates for this mousse?

Medjool dates are preferred for their natural sweetness and soft texture, but you can use other dates. If the dates are less soft, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using to soften.

Is this mousse suitable for a vegan diet?

This recipe includes heavy cream and Greek yogurt, so it is not vegan. However, you can substitute with coconut cream and a plant-based yogurt to make it vegan-friendly.