Lemon Tiramisu: Refreshing & Creamy Italian Dessert Recipe
Lemon Tiramisu is a refreshing and creamy twist on the classic Italian dessert. This version layers light ladyfinger cookies soaked in a bright lemon syrup with a fluffy mascarpone and whipped cream mixture, creating a zesty and indulgent treat perfect for warm weather or any occasion.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
- 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 lemon juice, water, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Whip the Mascarpone Filling: 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 to preserve the airy texture.
- Layer the Tiramisu: Dip each ladyfinger briefly (1–2 seconds) into the cooled lemon syrup and arrange a layer at 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.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 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.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright, authentic flavor; bottled lemon juice lacks freshness.
- Avoid soaking ladyfingers too long in the syrup to prevent a mushy texture; a quick dip of 1–2 seconds is ideal.
- For an adult twist, add a tablespoon of Limoncello to the lemon syrup or mascarpone cream.
Keywords: lemon tiramisu, Italian dessert, lemon dessert, mascarpone, lemon syrup, no bake tiramisu, creamy dessert, ladyfingers
