Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Lemon Tiramisu is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, replacing the traditional coffee flavors with bright, zesty lemon. It features layers of lemon-soaked sponge fingers, a smooth mascarpone and cream filling infused with lemon curd, and a tangy lemon syrup made with limoncello. This chilled dessert combines creamy, citrusy, and slightly boozy notes for a delightful and elegant treat perfect for warm weather or any occasion.
- Author: Caleb
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Lemon Curd
- Zest of 5 lemons
- Juice of 5 lemons
- 125 g unsalted butter
- 250 g caster sugar
- 5 medium eggs
Lemon Syrup
- 100 g caster sugar
- 150 ml water
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 100 ml limoncello
Filling & Assembly
- 200–300 g sponge fingers
- 500 g mascarpone
- 250 ml double cream
- 75 g lemon curd (from above)
- Make the Lemon Curd: Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, unsalted butter, and caster sugar to a large heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Stir frequently until the butter melts and the mixture is well combined.
- Add Eggs: Beat the five medium eggs together, then slowly pour them into the bowl with the lemon mixture, stirring continuously to combine.
- Cook Curd: Continue cooking the lemon curd over the simmering water for 10-15 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency that coats the back of a spoon without running off.
- Cool Lemon Curd: Remove the bowl from the heat and pour the lemon curd into a new bowl to cool completely.
- Prepare Lemon Syrup: In a saucepan, combine 100 g caster sugar, 150 ml water, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Heat gently on low, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and stir in 100 ml limoncello.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 500 g mascarpone, 250 ml double cream, and 75 g cooled lemon curd until soft peaks form and the mixture is smooth and airy.
- Assemble the Layers: Quickly dip sponge fingers into the lemon syrup one by one (avoid soaking too long if a firmer texture is preferred) and arrange a layer in the bottom of your serving dish.
- Add Filling: Spread half of the mascarpone and lemon curd filling evenly over the soaked sponge layer.
- Second Layer: Repeat the dipping and layering of sponge fingers on top of the first filling layer.
- Top with Filling and Lemon Curd: Spread the remaining mascarpone mixture over the second sponge layer, then finish by spreading the remaining lemon curd on top.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu for 3-4 hours to allow it to set and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Once set, serve chilled for a bright, creamy, and refreshing dessert experience.
Notes
- Be careful not to over-soak the sponge fingers in lemon syrup if you prefer a slightly firmer texture.
- Ensure the lemon curd cools completely before blending with mascarpone to prevent curdling.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead, allowing flavors to deepen overnight in the refrigerator.
- Limoncello can be substituted with a lemon-flavored liqueur or omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Use fresh lemons for the best bright and fresh citrus flavor.
Keywords: Lemon tiramisu, lemon dessert, mascarpone dessert, lemon curd recipe, Italian dessert, layered dessert, summer dessert