Lemon tiramisu is a fresh and zesty twist on the classic Italian dessert. This simple recipe combines the rich creaminess of traditional tiramisu with the bright, citrusy flavors of lemon.
It’s the perfect dessert for those who want something light, flavorful, and different from the usual options. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious treat!
This lemon tiramisu recipe is a refreshing take on the beloved Italian dessert. Instead of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, we use lemon zest and lemon syrup to soak the layers. The creamy mascarpone filling is mixed with lemon juice, making it tangy and light. Each bite gives you a balance of sweetness and citrus, leaving you craving more.
You’ll love lemon tiramisu because it offers a fresh burst of flavor. The lemon adds a bright kick that complements the rich and creamy mascarpone filling. This light yet indulgent dessert makes it the perfect ending to any meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require baking, which is always a win!
Lemon tiramisu has some great benefits. First, it’s a lighter alternative to the traditional tiramisu, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling too full. Lemon is also packed with vitamin C, making this dessert not only tasty but also healthy! It’s a great way to enjoy a sweet treat with a citrus twist.
Ingredients for a Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Making a refreshing Lemon Tiramisu is easy, and you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cream: Use heavy or whipping cream for a rich and smooth texture. The cream adds a light, fluffy texture to your tiramisu.
- Mascarpone Cheese: This Italian cheese is creamy and mild. It gives the tiramisu its rich, silky texture and smooth flavor. It’s the main ingredient that makes the dessert so indulgent.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the dessert without being too grainy. It dissolves easily into the cream and mascarpone mixture, creating a smooth, sweet filling.
- Lemons: Fresh lemons are essential for that zesty, tangy flavor. You’ll need the juice and zest to bring out the lemony kick in the tiramisu. The zest adds extra fragrance, and the juice gives that fresh, citrusy taste.
- Vanilla Extract: A small amount adds depth and enhances the sweetness of the cream mixture. It balances the tartness of the lemon and makes the flavors come together beautifully.
How to Make Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Ingredients
Here are all the ingredients you’ll need for this lemon tiramisu recipe:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups strong lemon tea or lemon-flavored liqueur (for soaking the ladyfingers)
- 1 package of ladyfingers (about 24 pieces)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will take about 3-4 minutes on high speed. Set the whipped cream aside.
- Prepare the Lemon Mascarpone: In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the fresh lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until the mixture is well combined.
- Combine the Cream and Mascarpone: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mascarpone mixture. Use a spatula and stir until fully incorporated, making sure not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Soak the Ladyfingers: Pour the lemon tea or liqueur into a shallow dish. Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the liquid, ensuring it gets moist but not soggy.
- Layer the Tiramisu: In a 9×9-inch baking or trifle dish, arrange the soaked ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom. Spread half of the lemon mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat the Layers: Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers on top of the mascarpone layer. Then, spread the remaining mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Chill and Set: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the tiramisu to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish with extra lemon zest and fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Lemon Tiramisu Recipe Variations
While the classic lemon tiramisu is already a treat, there are some fun ways to change it up and add your spin. Here are a few ideas:
Berries:
Add fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, between the layers of the tiramisu for extra sweetness and color.
Lemon Liqueur:
Add a splash of limoncello or another lemon liqueur to the lemon syrup for a more adult version.
Gluten-Free Version:
Substitute regular ladyfingers with gluten-free ladyfingers to make this dessert suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Vegan Tiramisu:
Replace the mascarpone cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut-based mascarpone, and use a dairy-free whipped cream substitute.
How to Serve Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Lemon tiramisu is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to help you serve it perfectly:
Individual Servings:
Instead of using a large dish, serve lemon tiramisu in individual glasses or small bowls. This makes it easier to share and adds a fun presentation.
With a Side of Fruit:
To complement the lemon flavor, pair your tiramisu with a small bowl of fresh fruit, such as berries, peaches, or citrus slices.
Garnish:
For a more decorative touch, garnish with thin lemon slices, fresh mint, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar.
How to Store Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
To keep your lemon tiramisu fresh, here’s how you should store it:
Refrigeration
Store the tiramisu in an airtight container in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days. The longer it sits, the better the flavors will meld together.
Freezing
While it’s best to enjoy lemon tiramisu fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
FAQs About Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Can I use regular tiramisu ingredients in this lemon version?
Yes, you can! Swap the coffee for lemon zest and juice to get that refreshing citrus flavor.
Is there a way to make lemon tiramisu without eggs?
Absolutely! You can use whipped cream and mascarpone cheese as a substitute for eggs, giving you a creamy texture.
How do I make the lemon flavor stronger?
Add more lemon zest or use lemon extract in the cream mixture to intensify the flavor.
Can I make lemon tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes, lemon tiramisu is great when made a day ahead. This allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
What can I use if I don’t have ladyfingers?
You can replace ladyfingers with sponge cake or even shortbread cookies for a similar texture.
