Lemon Tiramisu Italian Dessert (Printable)
Refreshing layers of lemon mascarpone and syrup-soaked ladyfingers create this bright Italian classic.
# What You'll Need:
→ Lemon Syrup
01 - 1 cup water
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/3 cup limoncello or fresh lemon juice
04 - Zest of 1 lemon
→ Mascarpone Cream
05 - 1 cup heavy cream, cold
06 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
07 - 16 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
08 - Zest of 2 lemons
09 - 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
10 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
→ Assembly
11 - 24 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
12 - Sliced lemons and fresh mint for garnish
# Directions:
01 - Combine water, granulated sugar, and lemon zest in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat, stir in limoncello, and allow to cool completely.
02 - In a large bowl, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar using an electric mixer or hand whisk until stiff peaks form.
03 - In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gently fold in the whipped cream until mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
04 - Quickly dip half the ladyfingers one at a time into cooled lemon syrup. Arrange in a single layer in a 9x9-inch baking dish.
05 - Spread half the lemon mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers using a spatula.
06 - Repeat dipping process with remaining ladyfingers and arrange as second layer. Top with remaining mascarpone cream, spreading evenly.
07 - Cover dish with plastic wrap or lid. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
08 - Before serving, garnish with fresh lemon slices and mint leaves if desired. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The lemon mascarpone cream is impossibly light yet rich enough to feel indulgent
- Limoncello adds this sophisticated grown up note that makes it dinner party worthy
- It comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like you spent all day on it
02 -
- Overdipping ladyfingers is the number one mistake people make, a quick second dip is all you need
- The chilling time is not optional, the textures need time to marry and become that cohesive spoonable bliss
03 -
- Room temperature mascarpone prevents lumps and ensures silky smooth folding
- A glass baking dish lets you see those beautiful layers through the sides