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Lemon Tiramisu

Lemon Tiramisu

A bright and refreshing twist on classic tiramisu, Lemon Tiramisu features velvety mascarpone layers combined with lemon-infused syrup-soaked ladyfingers. This easy-to-make dessert balances creamy sweetness with zesty citrus notes, perfect for spring, summer, or any time you crave a light and sophisticated treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Mascarpone Cream

  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Lemon Syrup and Assembly

  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • About 24 ladyfinger biscuits
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons limoncello or lemon liqueur (for adult version)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lemon syrup: Combine fresh lemon juice, water, and 1/3 cup sugar in a saucepan. Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. This syrup will be used to soak the ladyfingers, infusing them with bright lemon flavor.
  2. Make the mascarpone cream: In a heatproof bowl over a double boiler, whisk together egg yolks and 1/4 cup sugar until thick, pale, and custard-like. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Fold in mascarpone cheese, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture to create a light, airy cream.
  3. Assemble the tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled lemon syrup, ensuring they absorb enough liquid but do not become soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in your serving dish. Spread a generous layer of mascarpone cream on top. Repeat layering with remaining ladyfingers and cream, finishing with a smooth layer of cream on top.
  4. Chill and set: Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up for easier slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mascarpone cream without lumps.
  • Do not soak ladyfingers too long to keep their texture intact—just a quick dip is sufficient.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor; avoid bottled juice when possible.
  • Allow ample chilling time to develop flavor depth and proper dessert firmness.
  • Press the layers gently to even them out but avoid squishing the ladyfingers.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon tiramisu, citrus dessert, no bake dessert, lemon mascarpone dessert, gluten free tiramisu