Lemon Tiramisu

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings sunshine to your table, then this Lemon Tiramisu is just the treat you need! Imagine layers of creamy mascarpone mixed with tangy lemon curd and delicate ladyfingers soaked in a refreshing lemon syrup. This recipe is a family favorite in my home, perfect for warm gatherings or even quiet weeknights when you want to indulge in something special. Plus, it’s a no-bake dessert, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying sweet moments with your loved ones.

Lemon Tiramisu is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting an afternoon tea, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dessert fits any occasion beautifully. Let’s get started on making this luscious treat together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and no baking required, you can whip this up in no time!
• Perfect for Make-Ahead: It refrigerates beautifully, allowing the flavors to meld overnight.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the zesty flavor and creamy texture.
• Elegant Presentation: A stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes—perfect for impressing guests!
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily adapt it with different flavors and garnishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Tiramisu uses simple, wholesome ingredients that create a bright and delicious dessert. Gather these items from your pantry and local store:

For the Lemon Curd

• 4 large egg yolks
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar (134g)
• 1 Tablespoon lemon zest (6g), about 1 lemon
• 1/3 cup lemon juice (80mL), fresh squeezed
• pinch salt
• 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter (85g), room temperature, chopped

For the Lemon Syrup

• ¾ cup lemon juice (180mL), fresh squeezed, from about 2-3 lemons
• 1 cup water (240mL)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
• (Optional) ¼ cup limoncello (60mL)

For the Whipped Cream Layer

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (226g), room temperature
• 1 Tablespoon lemon zest (6g)
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (360mL)

For Assembling

• 1 package Lady Fingers (7 oz package, about 24 lady fingers, Savoiardi brand)
• (Optional) white chocolate, grated on top as garnish

Variations

This Lemon Tiramisu recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Fresh Berries: Layer in some fresh raspberries or blueberries between the mascarpone layers for extra fruitiness.
• Try Different Citrus: Use lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese for mascarpone and coconut cream for whipping cream.
• Infuse with Herbs: Add a hint of fresh mint or basil to your lemon syrup for an unexpected herbal note.

How to Make Lemon Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons

Start by zesting and juicing your lemons. This step is important because you’ll be using both the zest for flavor and the juice for your syrup and curd. Freshly squeezed juice makes all the difference!

Step 2: Make the Lemon Curd

In a small saucepan, bring about two inches of water to a simmer over medium heat. In a heat-proof mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt until well combined. Place this bowl over the simmering water. It’s like creating a gentle double boiler! Keep whisking continuously until thickened—this usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Once thickened to gravy-like consistency, remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.

Step 3: Cool the Lemon Curd

Transfer your luscious lemon curd into another bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap directly on its surface to prevent skin from forming while it cools in the refrigerator.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Syrup

In another saucepan, combine your remaining lemon juice with water and sugar. Bring it to a boil while stirring until dissolved completely. After boiling for about five minutes, remove from heat and let cool completely at room temperature.

Step 5: Whip the Mascarpone

In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone with one tablespoon of lemon zest. Then add heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer until medium/stiff peaks form—be careful not to over-mix! This whipped mixture is what gives our tiramisu that amazing fluffy texture.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tiramisu

Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the cooled lemon syrup before placing them in an even layer at the bottom of an 8×8 pan. Spread half of your whipped mascarpone mixture over them followed by an even layer of cooled lemon curd. Repeat by layering more dipped ladyfingers followed by your remaining whipped mascarpone on top. If you’d like to get fancy, pipe it decoratively! Garnish with grated white chocolate or additional zest if desired.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

Now comes the hard part—waiting! Cover your dish and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight if you can resist temptation that long.

And there you have it—a delightful Lemon Tiramisu that will surely brighten anyone’s day! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Tiramisu

Creating the perfect Lemon Tiramisu is a delightful journey, and with a few expert tips, you can elevate your dessert game to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh lemons not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that your lemon curd and syrup are vibrant and zesty. Freshness makes a noticeable difference in taste!

• Don’t Overmix the Whipping Cream: Mixing your whipping cream just until medium to stiff peaks is key to achieving a light, airy texture in your mascarpone mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense filling, which we want to avoid.

• Allow Time for Chilling: Be patient! Refrigerating your Lemon Tiramisu for at least 2 hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully and results in a firmer texture that’s easier to slice.

• Customize Your Layering: Feel free to play around with the layers. You can alternate between lemon curd and mascarpone or add an additional layer of lemon zest for an extra punch of flavor.

• Experiment with Flavors: While this recipe shines with lemon, don’t hesitate to experiment by adding other citrus fruits or even herbs like mint as garnishes for a unique twist!

How to Serve Lemon Tiramisu

Presenting your Lemon Tiramisu can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas on how to showcase this beautiful dessert.

Garnishes

• • Grated White Chocolate*: A sprinkle of grated white chocolate on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon.
• • Fresh Mint Leaves*: A few fresh mint leaves not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce a refreshing aroma that pairs wonderfully with lemon.
• • Lemon Slices*: Thin slices of lemon arranged decoratively on top or on the side offer an inviting presentation while reinforcing the citrus theme.

Side Dishes

• • Light Salad*: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the tiramisu and refreshes the palate.
• • Fruit Sorbet*: A scoop of lemon or berry sorbet provides a cool contrast in temperature and flavor, making it an excellent accompaniment to your dessert.
• • Biscotti*: Serve some almond or lemon-flavored biscotti on the side for added crunch and texture; they make delightful dippers!
• • Herbal Tea*: Pairing your dessert with a soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, creates a calming end to your meal while enhancing the citrus notes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this exquisite Lemon Tiramisu. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Tiramisu is a fabulous make-ahead dessert that’s perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and making it an ideal option for meal prep!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Lemon Tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• If you notice any excess moisture, gently dab with a paper towel before serving.

Freezing

• While not ideal, you can freeze Lemon Tiramisu if necessary.
• Cut into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• For best quality, consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• This dessert is meant to be served cold, so there’s no need to reheat.
• Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dessert:

Can I make Lemon Tiramisu without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg yolks by using a store-bought lemon curd instead of making your own. Just layer it with the mascarpone and whipped cream.

How long does Lemon Tiramisu last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Lemon Tiramisu lasts for about 3-4 days. Enjoy it fresh for the best flavor!

Is it possible to use other citrus fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with oranges or limes to create your own twist on this Lemon Tiramisu recipe. Just adjust the zest and juice accordingly!

What is the best way to serve Lemon Tiramisu?

For a beautiful presentation, garnish with grated white chocolate or additional lemon zest just before serving. It adds an elegant touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making this zesty Lemon Tiramisu! It’s a lovely treat that provides a refreshing twist on a classic dessert. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet, I know you’ll enjoy every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—they’ll love it too!