Dessert

Lemon Tiramisu: Refreshing & Creamy Italian Dessert Recipe

Name: Lemon Tiramisu: Refreshing & Creamy Italian Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 6 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3 lemons); 1/2 cup water; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 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; 1 package (200–250g) ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi); Extra lemon zest or candied lemon slices, for garnish

Byluca Carter January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

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Introduction

Lemon Tiramisu is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining bright citrus flavors with creamy mascarpone layers. This easy-to-make dessert offers a light, tangy alternative that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

A slice of lemon dessert with four visible layers sits on a white plate with a thin beige rim placed on a white marbled texture. The bottom layer is crumbly and light beige, topped by a smooth creamy white layer. Above it is a vibrant yellow lemon curd layer, followed by another crumbly beige layer. The top layer is creamy white frosting with small lemon wedges arranged on it. Whole and halved lemons are softly blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
1/2 cup water

1/3 cup granulated sugar
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
1 package (200–250g) ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)

Extra lemon zest or candied lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice, water, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone and lemon zest until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, preserving the airy texture.

Step 3: Dip each ladyfinger briefly (1–2 seconds) into the cooled lemon syrup and arrange a layer in the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or trifle bowl. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the soaked ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining cream.
Step 4: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight. Before serving, garnish with fresh lemon zest, mint leaves, or candied lemon slices.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor; bottled lemon juice won’t have the same freshness.

Dip ladyfingers quickly to avoid sogginess—just 1 to 2 seconds is ideal.
For an adult twist, add a tablespoon of Limoncello to the lemon syrup or mascarpone cream.

Storage

Store the tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Re-chill before serving to maintain its creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the cream and ladyfingers.