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
Scale
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.
