Lemon Tiramisu

If you’re looking for a light, refreshing dessert that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this delightful Lemon Tiramisu! This dessert is like sunshine on a plate. With layers of ladyfingers dipped in zesty lemon syrup paired with creamy mascarpone and tangy lemon curd, it’s the perfect way to end any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this no-bake treat is sure to be a hit!

What makes this Lemon Tiramisu extra special is its versatility. You can whip it up in advance and let it chill until you’re ready to serve. Plus, the bright citrus flavor adds a lovely touch that’s both comforting and invigorating. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your go-to desserts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Lemon Tiramisu requires no baking! Simply layer and chill; it’s almost effortless.
• Family-Friendly: The citrusy sweetness is adored by kids and adults alike. It’s perfect for gatherings!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it a day in advance for stress-free entertaining—just grab it from the fridge when it’s time to indulge.
• Versatile Flavor: The zesty lemon pairs beautifully with the rich mascarpone, creating a divine balance of flavors.
• Impressive Presentation: The layered look is stunning, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! They come together beautifully to create the luscious layers of flavor that make this Lemon Tiramisu shine.

For the Lemon Curd

• 4 large egg yolks
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar (134g)
• 1 Tablespoon lemon zest (6g), about 1 lemon
• 1/3 cup lemon juice (80mL), fresh squeezed
• pinch salt
• 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter (85g), room temperature, chopped

For the Lemon Syrup

• ¾ cup lemon juice (180mL), fresh squeezed, from about 2-3 lemons
• 1 cup water (240mL)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1/4 cup limoncello (60mL), optional

For the Mascarpone Layer

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (226g), room temperature
• 1 Tablespoon lemon zest (6g)
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (360mL)

To Assemble

• 1 package Lady Fingers (7 oz package, about 24 lady fingers, Savoiardi brand)
• white chocolate, grated on top as garnish (optional)

Variations

The beauty of this Lemon Tiramisu recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or substitutions that suit your taste.

• Add Fresh Berries: Layer in some fresh raspberries or blueberries for an added burst of flavor and color.
• Try Different Citrus: Swap out lemons for limes or oranges to create a unique twist on this classic dessert.
• Include Herbs: Add a hint of fresh mint or basil between layers for an unexpected flavor contrast.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for mascarpone and use dairy-free ladyfingers for a lighter option.

How to Make Lemon Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Curd

Start by zesting and juicing your lemons. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for that lovely tartness we crave in our dessert. In a small saucepan, create a double boiler by adding two inches of water. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. In your mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt until well combined. Placing this bowl over the simmering pot allows gentle heat to thicken your mixture perfectly into creamy curd—about 7-10 minutes of constant whisking will do the trick!

Step 2: Cool Your Lemon Curd

Once thickened, carefully remove the bowl from heat. Stir in chopped butter until melted and fully incorporated. To prevent a skin from forming while cooling, place plastic wrap directly onto the surface of your curd before refrigerating it.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Syrup

In another saucepan over medium heat, combine ¾ cup lemon juice with 1 cup water and ½ cup sugar. This mixture creates a sweet syrup that will soak into those delicate ladyfingers. Let it come to a boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves completely—after about five minutes on heat, remove from stove and allow to cool entirely.

Step 4: Whip Up Your Mascarpone Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine room-temperature mascarpone cheese with remaining lemon zest for that zingy flavor boost! Then gently fold in heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer until you reach medium-stiff peaks—this will ensure your topping has just the right amount of fluffiness without being over-mixed.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dessert

Now comes the fun part! Quickly dip each ladyfinger into your cooled lemon syrup and arrange them in an even layer at the bottom of an 8×8 pan or similar size dish. Next up is half of your whipped mascarpone spread atop those soaked fingers. Don’t forget to give your chilled lemon curd another stir before spooning on top evenly! Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers followed by more mascarpone on top. If you’re feeling fancy, consider decorating with grated white chocolate or more zest before placing everything into the fridge.

Step 6: Chill & Serve!

Allow your beautiful creation to chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight if you can wait that long! When you’re ready to indulge yourself or wow guests at dinner parties—it’s time for that refreshing slice of Lemon Tiramisu bliss!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Tiramisu

Making the perfect Lemon Tiramisu is all about the little details, and these pro tips will ensure your dessert shines!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemons not only enhance the flavor but also provide a vibrant color that makes your tiramisu visually appealing.
• Don’t over-soak ladyfingers: A quick dip in the lemon syrup is all you need. Over-soaking can make them mushy, which may ruin the texture of your layers.
• Chill overnight: If time allows, letting your tiramisu chill overnight enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully, resulting in a more delicious dessert.
• Experiment with zest: Adding lemon zest not only boosts flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dessert. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste!
• Serve chilled: This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so be sure to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve for an irresistible refreshing treat.

How to Serve Lemon Tiramisu

When it comes to serving Lemon Tiramisu, presentation is key! This delightful dessert can be dressed up to impress or kept casual for a cozy gathering. Here are some ideas on how to present this stunning dish.

Garnishes

• Grated lemon zest: Sprinkle some fresh lemon zest on top for an added burst of citrus flavor and a beautiful finish.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint can add a lovely contrast and bring a touch of elegance.
• Edible flowers: For a spring-inspired look, consider garnishing with edible flowers like pansies or nasturtiums that pair beautifully with lemon.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries complements the tartness of the tiramisu while adding a refreshing burst of color.
• Lemon Sorbet: This light and refreshing sorbet makes an excellent palate cleanser and enhances the citrus theme of your dessert.
• Shortbread Cookies: The buttery crunch of shortbread adds a lovely texture contrast alongside your creamy tiramisu.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea such as chamomile or mint can help balance the sweet and tangy notes of Lemon Tiramisu, making it a relaxing end to any meal.

With these serving suggestions, your Lemon Tiramisu will not only be delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Tiramisu is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here are some tips on how to store and enjoy your dessert later.

Storing Leftovers

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best flavor and texture.
• Avoid freezing if you want to maintain the creamy consistency.

Freezing

• If you need to freeze, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers.
• Label them with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Lemon Tiramisu is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat it.
• Simply take it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Lemon Tiramisu!

Can I make Lemon Tiramisu without eggs?

Absolutely! You can use a vegan alternative for the mascarpone and whipped cream. This will create a delicious egg-free version of this classic dessert.

How long does Lemon Tiramisu last in the fridge?

Lemon Tiramisu stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days when stored properly. Enjoy it within this time frame for the best taste!

What can I use instead of limoncello in Lemon Tiramisu?

You can simply omit limoncello or substitute it with an extra splash of lemon juice mixed with a bit of sugar or honey for sweetness.

Is Lemon Tiramisu suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert whenever you like!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful Lemon Tiramisu as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a refreshing experience that brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try it out—I’m excited for you to savor every bite!