Lemon Tiramisu

If you adore classic tiramisu but crave something bright, fresh, and zesty, this Lemon Tiramisu recipe is about to become your new favorite dessert. Discover the creamy zest of Lemon Tiramisu with this easy, homemade recipe that brings a fresh twist to a classic dessert. With its velvety mascarpone layers, light lemon-infused syrup, and a delicate balance of sweetness and tang, this dessert is both sophisticated and wonderfully comforting, perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing twist: The lemon adds a bright, citrusy layer that makes traditional tiramisu feel lighter and more vibrant.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
• Perfect texture: Creamy mascarpone melded with soft ladyfingers soaked in lemon syrup creates an irresistibly smooth dessert.
• Great for any season: The fresh zing of lemon fits right in with spring and summer, but it’s a lovely change any time you want dessert with a twist.
• Customizable: There’s plenty of room to adapt the recipe to your favorite citrus flavors or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this recipe are easy to find and work together beautifully to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that make Lemon Tiramisu truly special.

• Mascarpone cheese: This creamy and slightly tangy cheese is the heart of the recipe, giving it that rich, dreamy texture.
• Egg yolks: Used to create a smooth, custard-like base for the mascarpone, enhancing richness.
• Granulated sugar: Provides just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the citrus.
• Fresh lemon juice: Infuses the dessert with bright, natural acidity and flavor.
• Lemon zest: Adds an extra punch of lemon aroma and subtle bitterness to balance sweetness.
• Ladyfinger biscuits: Light and airy, these soak up the lemon syrup perfectly to create soft layers.
• Heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it lightens the mascarpone mixture for an airy finish.
• Vanilla extract: A splash to round out flavors and add warmth.
• Optional limoncello or lemon liqueur: For an adult-only version, this adds a lovely boozy lemon twist.

Variations for Lemon Tiramisu

Feel free to get creative and make this Lemon Tiramisu your own! It’s wonderfully adaptable depending on what you love or what you have on hand.

• Berry twist: Add layers of fresh raspberries or blueberries to complement the citrus notes.
• Dairy-free version: Swap mascarpone for a coconut cream mixture and use dairy-free ladyfingers for a vegan treat.
• Herbal hint: Infuse the lemon syrup with fresh basil or mint for a unique herbal aroma.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cake slices to keep it celiac-friendly.
• Extra citrus punch: Mix in a bit of orange or lime zest along with lemon zest for a multi-citrus layer.

How to Make Lemon Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the lemon syrup

Start by combining fresh lemon juice, a bit of water, and sugar in a saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves completely, then allow it to cool. This syrup will soak the ladyfingers, infusing every bite with bright lemon flavor.

Step 2: Make the mascarpone cream

Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a bowl over a double boiler until thick and pale. Let it cool slightly, then fold in the mascarpone cheese, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Separately, whip heavy cream to soft peaks before gently folding it into the mascarpone mixture to keep it light and fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble the tiramisu

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the lemon syrup, making sure not to soak them too long or they will become soggy. Layer soaked ladyfingers in your serving dish, then spread a generous layer of mascarpone cream over the top. Repeat layers until you use all ingredients, finishing with cream on top.

Step 4: Chill and set

Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling lets the flavors meld perfectly and ensures a creamy, sliceable dessert.

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Tiramisu

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures your mascarpone cream blends smoothly without lumps.
• Don’t soak ladyfingers too long: A quick dip keeps them moist yet intact, preserving the dessert’s texture.
• Fresh lemon is best: Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for the cleanest, brightest flavor.
• Chill thoroughly: Allow plenty of refrigerating time to develop flavor and firmness.
• Secure your layers: Press gently to even out the layers but avoid squishing the ladyfingers.

How to Serve Lemon Tiramisu

Garnishes

Top your Lemon Tiramisu with a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest, a dusting of powdered sugar, or some fresh mint leaves for a beautiful finish and extra aroma.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a light fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla gelato, or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio to enhance the citrus flavors without overwhelming them.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Lemon Tiramisu in individual glass jars or elegant parfait glasses to showcase the vibrant layers, or create mini versions in cupcake liners for charming party bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Lemon Tiramisu covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, making the dessert even more delicious over time.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it may affect the texture of the mascarpone cream. If freezing, wrap tightly and consume within 1 month, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Tiramisu is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating to maintain the creamy texture and fresh lemon flavor; simply let it sit out for 15 minutes for a softer feel before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended because it provides a brighter, fresher flavor that store-bought lemon juice often lacks, which is crucial to achieving the unique zing of Lemon Tiramisu.

Is it necessary to use raw eggs in this recipe?

Raw eggs are traditionally used for the custard base, but if you’re concerned, you can find pasteurized eggs or try a no-egg substitute mascarpone cream recipe to keep it safe without sacrificing creaminess.

Can Lemon Tiramisu be made without alcohol?

Absolutely! The recipe is delicious without any alcohol, but a splash of limoncello or lemon liqueur can add a lovely depth if you want that extra zing.

How long should I let Lemon Tiramisu chill before serving?

For best results, chill at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling is ideal to let the flavors marry and the dessert set perfectly.

What’s the best way to zest lemons?

Use a fine grater or microplane to zest lemons, avoiding the white pith underneath which is bitter; only zest the yellow outer layer for the freshest aroma and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Tiramisu is a delightful way to bring brightness and freshness into a beloved classic dessert. It’s easy to make, wonderfully creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor that feels just right anytime you want a special homemade treat. Give it a try and watch it become a staple for your dessert table!

Related Posts

• Peppermint Bark Popcorn
• Oatmeal Cookies
• Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies

Print