Lemon Tiramisu: Refreshing & Creamy Italian Dessert Recipe
Lemon Tiramisu is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers replaced with a tangy lemon syrup, and a luscious mascarpone cream infused with lemon zest. This creamy, citrusy treat offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it an ideal dessert for warm weather or any occasion requiring a bright, indulgent finish.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Lemon Syrup:
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
Mascarpone Cream:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Assembly:
- 1 package (200–250g) ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)
- Extra lemon zest or candied lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Lemon Syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, water, and granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove the syrup from heat and allow it to cool completely before using.
- Whip the Mascarpone Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream along with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to maintain the light and airy texture.
- Layer the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled lemon syrup for 1 to 2 seconds, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or trifle bowl. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat the process by adding another layer of dipped ladyfingers and topping it with the remaining mascarpone cream.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set. Before serving, garnish with fresh lemon zest, mint leaves, or candied lemon slices for an added decorative and flavor boost.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest, most authentic flavor; bottled lemon juice does not deliver the same freshness.
- Do not soak the ladyfingers for too long to avoid a mushy texture; a quick dip of 1-2 seconds is ideal.
- For an adult variation, add a tablespoon of Limoncello to the lemon syrup or mascarpone cream for extra depth of flavor.
Keywords: Lemon Tiramisu, Italian dessert, mascarpone cream, lemon syrup, no-bake dessert, refreshing dessert
