Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Looking for the best Lemon Tiramisu recipe? This refreshing no-bake Italian-inspired dessert layers delicate ladyfingers soaked in lemon syrup with a luscious mascarpone cream and fresh lemon zest. Light, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for spring, summer, holidays, or any special occasion.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No baking required
Light, creamy, and refreshing
Bright fresh lemon flavor
Elegant dessert for entertaining
Easy to prepare ahead of time
Perfect for warm weather
⏱️ Prep Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8
🛒 Ingredients
Lemon Syrup
1 cup water
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Mascarpone Cream
16 oz (450 g) mascarpone cheese, softened
1½ cups heavy whipping cream
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Layers
24–30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
Garnish
Fresh lemon zest
Thin lemon slices
White chocolate shavings (optional)
Fresh mint leaves
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Lemon Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine:
Water
Lemon juice
Sugar
Lemon zest
Bring to a gentle simmer until the sugar dissolves.
Cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Cream
In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
In another bowl, beat together:
Mascarpone cheese
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Lemon zest
Lemon juice
Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled lemon syrup—don’t soak them too long.
Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish.
Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the cookies.
Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and finish with the remaining mascarpone cream.
Step 4: Chill
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to develop.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Before serving, decorate with:
Fresh lemon zest
Thin lemon slices
White chocolate shavings (optional)
Fresh mint leaves
Slice and serve chilled.
💡 Baker’s Tips
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers or the dessert may become too soft.
Chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
For an extra burst of lemon, add a thin layer of lemon curd between the mascarpone layers.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 430
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 95mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Lemon Tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better when made the day before, giving the flavors time to meld and the dessert to set properly.
Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
You can, but mascarpone provides the authentic rich, silky texture. Cream cheese will produce a tangier flavor.
Can I add lemon curd?
Absolutely! Spreading a thin layer of lemon curd between the mascarpone layers adds even more vibrant lemon flavor.
What can I serve with Lemon Tiramisu?
It pairs beautifully with fresh berries, iced tea, espresso, sparkling lemonade, or a cup of hot coffee.
