If you’ve ever wished for a bright, zesty twist on a classic Italian indulgence, this Lemon Tiramisu Recipe is your new best friend. It balances the creamy richness of mascarpone and whipped cream with the citrusy pop of fresh lemon zest and juice, creating a no-bake dessert that feels both luxurious and refreshingly light. Ladyfingers soak up the lemony mixture perfectly, making every bite an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s ideal for warm weather or any time you crave something sweet with a sunny personality.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Lemon Tiramisu Recipe is a breeze because it calls for simple, classic ingredients that each play a vital role in delivering flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the creamy mascarpone to the vibrant lemon components, every ingredient contributes to making this dessert truly shine.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipping it to soft peaks creates a light, airy base that balances the richness of mascarpone.
- Mascarpone cheese: This creamy Italian cheese gives the dessert its signature smooth and velvety texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream mixture just enough without overpowering the lemon notes.
- Vanilla extract: Adds subtle warmth and depth to complement the citrus flavors.
- Lemon zest: Brings fresh, intense lemon aroma and a bit of texture to the cream.
- Fresh lemon juice: Infuses the ladyfingers with tart brightness and keeps the dessert refreshing.
- Limoncello (optional): This lemon liqueur adds an extra layer of citrus complexity for grown-up palates.
- Ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi): Their light, airy texture soaks up lemon juice without getting soggy.
- Powdered sugar: Perfect for dusting to add a delicate, sweet finish.
- Lemon slices and fresh mint (optional): Gorgeous garnishes that elevate the presentation and hint at the flavors inside.
How to Make Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream and Mascarpone
Begin by whipping the heavy cream until soft peaks form, which means the cream holds its shape but is still soft enough to blend smoothly. Next, add the mascarpone cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, then continue whipping everything together until the mixture becomes fluffy and silky. This forms the luscious cream layer that’s essential for your Lemon Tiramisu Recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Soaking Mixture
Mix your fresh lemon juice with limoncello if you’re using it—it adds a boozy zing that’s truly special. This simple, tangy liquid is what gives the ladyfingers their signature flavor boost. Just remember not to oversoak the cookies to keep the dessert from becoming soggy.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the lemon mixture, coating but not drenching them. Arrange a single layer in the bottom of your dish. Then generously spread half of your mascarpone cream on top. Repeat with another soaked ladyfinger layer followed by the remaining cream. Smooth the top with a spatula for a beautiful finish!
Step 4: Chill and Set
Cover your assembled tiramisu and refrigerate it for at least 6 hours or overnight. This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to mellow, the textures to meld, and the dessert to set perfectly—patience pays off deliciously here.
How to Serve Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar—it adds a touch of elegance and sweetness. Brighten the platter with thin lemon slices and a few sprigs of fresh mint to complement the zesty notes and create an inviting presentation that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
This lemon tiramisu pairs beautifully with a light, fresh fruit salad or a simple bowl of berries. If you’re serving it after a rich meal, a crisp glass of white wine or sparkling lemon water can refresh the palate perfectly alongside this dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the tiramisu in individual glass cups or jars layered to show off the delicate lemon cream and soaked ladyfingers. You can also add candied lemon peel on top for an extra zingy crunch or even sprinkle edible flowers for a festive touch that’s guaranteed to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Tiramisu Recipe is a wonderful treat to enjoy the next day. Keep it covered in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness and moisture. It will stay creamy and flavorful for up to 3 days—perfect for savoring later or surprising someone special.
Freezing
You can freeze this tiramisu if you want to prepare it well in advance. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving; the texture might be a little denser but still deliciously enjoyable.
Reheating
Since tiramisu is best served cold and creamy, reheating is not recommended. Its charm lies in that cool, luscious texture that melting would disrupt.
FAQs
Can I make this Lemon Tiramisu Recipe alcohol-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the limoncello and replace it with additional fresh lemon juice or a splash of lemonade to keep that bright citrus flavor without the alcohol.
How long does the tiramisu need to chill?
For the best flavor and texture, chilling for at least 6 hours is ideal, but overnight really allows everything to set and the flavors to marry beautifully.
Can I use store-bought lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the brightest, most vibrant taste, but if you’re in a pinch, good-quality bottled lemon juice will still work—just avoid those with added preservatives or sweeteners.
What can I substitute for ladyfingers?
If you can’t find ladyfinger cookies, you could try using sponge cake slices, though the texture and soaking affect will vary slightly. Ladyfingers are ideal because they soak quickly yet keep their structure.
Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Lemon Tiramisu Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or gelatin and relies on classic dairy ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Tiramisu Recipe is a delightful way to refresh a beloved dessert with a zesty, summery twist that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Once you try it, its creamy, citrusy layers will quickly become a favorite to make again and again. Go ahead and treat yourself—you deserve a slice of sunshine on your dessert plate!
Print
Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Tiramisu is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining creamy mascarpone and whipped cream infused with bright lemon zest and juice. Ladyfinger cookies soaked in a zesty lemon and limoncello mixture layer this no-bake dessert, making it perfect for summer gatherings or a light, elegant treat that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 lemons
Lemon Mixture and Assembly
- ¾ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons limoncello (optional)
- 30–36 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon slices and mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Whip the cream and mascarpone mixture. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Continue whipping the mixture until it becomes smooth, light, and fluffy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare the lemon soaking mixture. In a shallow dish, combine fresh lemon juice with limoncello if using. This mixture will add a bright, citrusy flavor to the ladyfingers without making them soggy.
- Dip the ladyfingers. One at a time, quickly dip each ladyfinger into the lemon mixture. Be careful not to soak them too long as they can become overly saturated and lose their structure.
- Assemble the dessert layers. Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers on the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish. Spread half of the lemon mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and finish by spreading the remaining mascarpone mixture on top, smoothing it with a spatula.
- Chill the tiramisu. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly, resulting in a luscious texture.
- Garnish and serve. Before serving, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and mint leaves if desired to add visual appeal and a fresh bite.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic option, omit the limoncello and substitute with additional fresh lemon juice or lemonade.
- The dessert’s flavor and texture improve significantly if allowed to chill overnight, making it ideal to prepare a day ahead.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor; bottled lemon juice may alter the taste.
- Ensure not to oversoak the ladyfingers to maintain the perfect texture contrast.
