Lemon Tiramisu: A Refreshing Citrus Twist on the Classic Dessert Recipe
Introduction
Lemon tiramisu is a bright and refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert. Featuring layers of zesty lemon curd, creamy mascarpone, and soaked ladyfingers, it’s perfect for a light treat or summer gathering. This dessert combines tangy citrus flavors with smooth textures for a delightful experience.
Ingredients
- Ladyfingers (Savoiardi) – 24 pieces
- Mascarpone cheese – 1 cup (240g)
- Lemon curd – 1 cup (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh lemons – 2 (juice and zest)
- Whipping cream – 1 cup (240ml)
- Sugar – ¾ cup (150g), divided
- Water – ½ cup (120ml)
- Limoncello (optional) – 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the lemon syrup by combining sugar, water, and fresh lemon juice in a small saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk mascarpone cheese with whipping cream, half the sugar, and lemon zest until smooth and fluffy. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Step 3: Briefly dip ladyfingers into the lemon syrup, making sure they absorb the liquid without becoming soggy. Arrange a layer at the bottom of your serving dish.
- Step 4: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Add a thin layer of lemon curd on top.
- Step 5: Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone mixture, and lemon curd, finishing with mascarpone on top.
- Step 6: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Step 7: Before serving, garnish with fresh lemon zest, mint leaves, or crushed ladyfingers for texture and visual appeal.
Tips & Variations
- Avoid over-soaking ladyfingers to maintain structure and texture.
- Adjust sugar and lemon juice to balance sweetness and tartness to your liking.
- Whip the cream to soft peaks to keep the mascarpone mixture light and stable.
- Try adding fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Incorporate limoncello into the mascarpone or lemon syrup for an adult variation.
- For a vegan version, substitute mascarpone with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of whipping cream.
Storage
Store lemon tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat is not necessary—serve chilled for the best flavor and texture. Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the creamy consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare lemon tiramisu in advance?
Yes, making it a day ahead is ideal. It allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set, resulting in a better texture and taste.
Can it be made without alcohol?
Absolutely. Simply omit the limoncello and use extra lemon syrup when soaking the ladyfingers.
Print
Lemon Tiramisu: A Refreshing Citrus Twist on the Classic Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Tiramisu is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, replacing traditional coffee and cocoa flavors with bright, tangy lemons. This layered treat combines lemon-soaked ladyfingers, luscious mascarpone cream infused with lemon zest, and vibrant lemon curd, creating a light yet indulgent dessert perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a citrusy, creamy delight.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Syrup
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
For the Mascarpone Mixture
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Additional Ingredients
- Ladyfingers (Savoiardi), about 24 pieces
- 1/2 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons limoncello (for boozy twist)
- Garnishes: fresh lemon zest, mint leaves, crushed ladyfingers
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and fresh lemon juice in equal parts. Heat gently over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely. This syrup will be used to soak the ladyfingers so they absorb the citrus flavor.
- Whisk the Mascarpone Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, whipping cream, sugar, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and forms soft peaks. Adjust the sugar depending on how sweet you prefer your dessert. If using limoncello, gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture at this stage to enhance flavor.
- Build the Layers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the lemon syrup, just enough to soak without making them soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers side by side at the bottom of your serving dish. Spread an even layer of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, leveling it smoothly with a spatula. Next, add a thin layer of lemon curd on top of the mascarpone. Repeat these layering steps to fill your dish, ensuring the final top layer is mascarpone cream.
- Chill and Garnish: Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly. Before serving, garnish with freshly grated lemon zest, mint leaves, or a sprinkling of crushed ladyfingers for texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- Avoid over-soaking the ladyfingers to prevent a soggy dessert; they should retain some firmness for structure.
- Balance the sweetness and tartness by adjusting sugar and lemon juice quantities to your preference.
- Whip the cream to soft peaks for a light, airy mascarpone layer but avoid overwhipping.
- Chilling time is crucial for texture and flavor development—do not skip or shorten.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit limoncello and increase lemon syrup proportionally.
- This dessert is best consumed within 3 days when refrigerated properly.
- Freezing is not recommended as it can spoil the creamy texture.
- Substitute mascarpone with cream cheese or Greek yogurt if necessary, keeping in mind the flavor will vary.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: lemon tiramisu, lemon dessert, Italian dessert, mascarpone, lemon curd, no bake dessert, summer dessert, creamy dessert, citrus tiramisu
