This zesty Lemon Tiramisu, comes together in about 30 minutes and requires no baking for a quick sweet treat that your family will love! Switch up the flavors or the ingredients to suit your cravings, or use it as a fun way to clean out the fridge. It’ll be the sunshine on your table, perfect for celebrated dinners or just those peaceful weekend lunches!
Ingredient Breakdown
- 1/2 cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (about 3 lemons)
- 1/2 cup Water
- 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
- 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
- 1 Package (200–250g) Ladyfinger Cookies (Savoiardi)
- Extra Lemon Zest or Candied Lemon Slices, for Garnish
Let’s Get Cooking!
Step 1: Make the Lemon Syrup
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the lemon juice, water, and sugar. Stir occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved. This takes just a few minutes, smell the citrus; it’ll make your kitchen feel like spring! Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Whip the Mascarpone Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, making it feel super fluffy. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with lemon zest until it’s light and creamy. This is where the magic happens! Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture gently, taking care to maintain that fluffy texture. It’s like a creamy cloud of happiness.
Step 3: Layer the Tiramisu
Time to bring it all together! Dip each ladyfinger briefly (just 1-2 seconds) into the cooled lemon syrup, don’t let them get soggy, okay? Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in 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. This layering is so satisfying, just like building a cozy little dessert fortress!
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, garnish with fresh lemon zest, mint leaves, or candied lemon slices for that extra wow factor!
Why I Love This Recipe
This Lemon Tiramisu is seriously my go-to recipe when I want something refreshing but indulgent. It’s comfort food that feels light and bright, and I’m just a sucker for that creamy texture mixed with lemony goodness! The best part is that it’s easy enough to whip up for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Just knowing that everyone will be asking for seconds? Yeah, that’s the icing on the cake, or should I say, the lemon on the tiramisu?
If you loved this Lemon Tiramisu, be sure to check out my Easter Egg Cheesecake Jars, my Homemade Healthy Marshmallows, or my Mini Pizza Crackers recipes!
Why This Recipe Works
Make-Ahead Friendly
You can prep this a day in advance, which is perfect for busy weeknights or when you have company coming! The flavors just get better as they sit.
Customizable
Feeling adventurous? Switch up the flavors! You could infuse different syrups for various flavor profiles, how about a berry version? Use whatever fruits you have on hand!
Crowd-Pleaser
I can’t stress this enough: this dessert is always a hit! It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for any gathering. Your guests will be raving about it!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
This delicious Lemon Tiramisu is perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with coffee or an herbal tea! Plus, serve it alongside some fresh fruits for that extra colorful presentation.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, I doubt there will be much left!
Reheating Instructions
There’s no need to reheat this dessert; it’s best served chilled.
Freezer Friendly
Sadly, no this dessert doesn’t freeze well. The textures will change as the whipped cream separates from the other ingredients. But hey, you can always prep the layers separately and assemble when ready to serve!
And there we go! This Lemon Tiramisu is a light, zesty take on a classic that brings a refreshing twist to your dessert menu. Whether you whip it up for a special occasion or just because, it really does make any day feel a little more festive. And you get bonus points for looking super classy doing it! Now, get to cooking, my friends, and enjoy that delightful creaminess! Follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!
Lemon Tiramisu
Ingredients
Method
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the lemon juice, water, and sugar.
- Stir occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved, about a few minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with lemon zest until light and creamy.
- Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture gently to maintain the fluffy texture.
- Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled lemon syrup.
- Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the soaked ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and the remaining cream.
- Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Garnish with fresh lemon zest or candied lemon slices before serving.