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Lemon Tiramisu

Lemon Tiramisu

Lemon Tiramisu is a bright and indulgent twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining creamy mascarpone layers with zesty lemon syrup for a light, refreshing, and luxuriously smooth treat. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or any occasion when you want a sweet, citrusy dessert that feels both elegant and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Lemon Syrup

  • Fresh lemon juice and zest from ripe lemons (about 3 lemons)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ¼ cup water

For the Cream Layers

  • 16 oz mascarpone cheese
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Half of the prepared lemon syrup (about ½ cup)

For Assembly

  • Ladyfingers (about 24 pieces)
  • Lemon liqueur or limoncello (optional, 2 tbsp)

For Garnish

  • Fresh lemon zest
  • Powdered sugar (optional)
  • Edible flowers or mint sprigs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lemon syrup: Combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture slightly thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
  2. Whip the mascarpone cream: In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone cheese with egg yolks, vanilla extract, and half of the cooled lemon syrup until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture to maintain an airy texture.
  3. Soak the ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled lemon syrup, ensuring they absorb some liquid but remain firm. Line the bottom of your serving dish with the soaked ladyfingers to form the base layer.
  4. Layer and chill: Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the soaked ladyfingers. Repeat the process by adding another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then top with the remaining mascarpone cream. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal texture and flavor melding.
  5. Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle fresh lemon zest on top. Optionally, add a dusting of powdered sugar or edible flowers for a decorative finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for the best vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Do not over-soak ladyfingers to prevent sogginess; a quick dip is sufficient.
  • Chill overnight if possible to enhance flavor melding and texture.
  • Fold whipped cream gently into mascarpone mixture to preserve airiness.
  • If using lemon liqueur or limoncello, add it carefully to complement the flavors without overpowering.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon Tiramisu, citrus dessert, summer dessert, no-bake tiramisu, mascarpone dessert, lemon recipe