Lemon Tiramisu Recipe: If you love the rich, creamy goodness of tiramisu but want something with a zesty twist, lemon tiramisu is calling your name!
Imagine layers of airy mascarpone cream, tart lemon curd, and perfectly soaked ladyfingers—this dessert is refreshing, elegant, and shockingly easy to put together.
Whether you’re serving it at a spring brunch, a summer dinner party, or just indulging your citrus cravings, lemon tiramisu is the ideal no-bake dessert with a gourmet feel.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Tiramisu
Let’s be real—tiramisu has always been a crowd-pleaser, but lemon tiramisu elevates the game. Why? Because it balances sweet and tangy in the most delightful way. The brightness of the lemon cuts through the richness of the cream, making each bite feel light yet indulgent. Plus, it’s:
- No-bake (no oven needed!)
- Ready in under an hour (plus chill time)
- Perfect for spring and summer
- Elegant enough for holidays, but easy enough for weeknights
It’s basically sunshine in dessert form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ready to bring this lemony masterpiece to life? Here’s what you’ll need, broken down into sections so you can prep like a pro.
For the Lemon Curd
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 whole egg
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
For the Mascarpone Cream
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the Ladyfingers
- 1 package of Savoiardi (Italian ladyfingers)
- ½ cup lemon juice
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Optional Garnishes
- Lemon zest
- Whipped cream
- White chocolate shavings
- Mint leaves
Essential Tools for Making Lemon Tiramisu
You don’t need anything fancy, but having these on hand makes things smoother:
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Zester or microplane
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- 9×9-inch dish or trifle bowl
- Whisk
Tips Before You Start
- Use fresh lemons, not bottled juice, for the brightest flavor.
- Let your mascarpone soften before mixing so it blends smoothly.
- Use cold whipping cream—it whips better.
- Make your lemon curd in advance and chill it to make assembly easier.
- Dip your ladyfingers quickly—too long and they’ll fall apart!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemon Tiramisu
Let’s walk through each stage, step-by-step, so you’ll nail it the first time.
Step 1: Make the Homemade Lemon Curd
Homemade lemon curd might sound fancy, but it’s actually simple. In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, one whole egg, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens—this takes about 7–10 minutes. Once thick, remove from heat and whisk in the butter until smooth. Pour into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (press it against the surface to prevent a skin), and chill for at least 30 minutes. The result? A silky, tangy spread that tastes like sunshine.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Syrup
This step ensures the ladyfingers are infused with lemony flavor. In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup lemon juice, ¼ cup water, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Warm gently until sugar dissolves. Let it cool completely. This syrup will be used for dipping your ladyfingers—don’t skip it, or your tiramisu will be dry!
Step 3: Whip the Mascarpone Cream
In a large mixing bowl, add mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. In another bowl, whip your heavy cream until soft peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone gently—this keeps it airy. The cream should be thick, smooth, and rich, but still light and spreadable.
Step 4: Dip the Ladyfingers
Now it’s time to bring the layers together. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled lemon syrup—just 1–2 seconds per side. You want them moist but not soggy. Layer them snugly in the bottom of your dish.
Step 5: Layering the Tiramisu
Start with a layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by a layer of mascarpone cream, then a generous spoonful of lemon curd. Repeat: ladyfingers, cream, curd. Finish with a final layer of mascarpone on top. Smooth it out with a spatula and add extra lemon zest for color.
Step 6: Chill the Dessert
Cover your tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible. This helps the flavors meld and gives the dessert its classic tiramisu texture—soft, creamy, and dreamy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, top with lemon zest, a few mint leaves, or even white chocolate shavings. Scoop it out or slice into squares and serve chilled. Every bite is a burst of lemony bliss!
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best things about lemon tiramisu is how well it stores and how perfect it is for making ahead. In fact, it’s better when made in advance because the flavors develop over time. Here’s how to get the most out of your dessert:
- Make-Ahead: Assemble your tiramisu the night before your event. It gives the layers time to set and intensifies the flavor.
- Storage: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Option: You can also freeze lemon tiramisu! Freeze in individual portions or as a whole tray for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Avoid leaving it at room temperature for too long, especially in warm weather, as the mascarpone and cream can spoil quickly.
Substitutions and Variations
Don’t have all the ingredients or want to put your own spin on it? Totally fair! Here are some great substitutions and fun variations to try:
Substitutions
- Mascarpone: Use cream cheese as a substitute (though the flavor will be tangier).
- Ladyfingers: Use sponge cake or pound cake slices if ladyfingers aren’t available.
- Lemon curd: Store-bought lemon curd works if you’re short on time.
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based whipped cream and dairy-free cream cheese for a non-dairy version.
Flavor Variations
- Berry Lemon Tiramisu: Add fresh raspberries or blueberries between the layers.
- Limoncello Tiramisu: Add a splash of limoncello (lemon liqueur) to the syrup for an adult twist.
- Coconut Lemon Tiramisu: Add shredded coconut or use coconut cream in the mascarpone layer.
Don’t be afraid to get creative—it’s hard to mess this one up!
Gluten-Free or Vegan Lemon Tiramisu Options
Good news—lemon tiramisu can be customized to suit different dietary needs without losing its charm!
Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free ladyfingers (many brands now offer them).
- Double-check your lemon curd ingredients to ensure everything is GF.
Vegan Option
- Replace mascarpone with vegan cream cheese.
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Choose vegan ladyfingers or bake your own.
- Make or buy eggless lemon curd using cornstarch or agar.
These swaps will give you a dessert that’s just as luscious and satisfying!
What to Serve with Lemon Tiramisu
While lemon tiramisu stands strong on its own, pairing it with the right drink or extra side can elevate the whole experience.
- With Drinks: Serve with herbal tea (like chamomile or mint), iced tea, or a chilled glass of Prosecco.
- With Fresh Fruit: Add a side of mixed berries or grilled peaches for extra color and texture.
- With Cookies: A crisp biscotti or lemon shortbread on the side is a fun touch.
It’s versatile enough to match with a range of flavors—just keep it light and fresh.
How Long Does Lemon Tiramisu Last?
When stored properly in the fridge, your lemon tiramisu will stay fresh for 3–4 days. Here’s what to know:
- After 24 hours: The flavors hit their peak.
- After 3 days: Still tasty, but the texture may start to soften.
- After 4 days: Best to finish it off—if there’s any left!
Avoid leaving it out on the counter for more than 1–2 hours, especially in warm temps, due to the dairy content.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the best bakers run into the occasional snag. Here’s how to fix (or avoid) some common lemon tiramisu problems:
- Cream too runny? You may have overmixed or not whipped the cream long enough. Chill it for a bit to firm up.
- Ladyfingers soggy? You might be soaking them too long. Just a quick dip is enough.
- Layers sliding? Make sure each layer is even and let it chill long enough before serving.
- Too tart or too sweet? Adjust sugar levels in the lemon curd or syrup next time to suit your taste.
Remember, even a “messy” tiramisu is still delicious!
Lemon Tiramisu vs. Classic Tiramisu
So how does this citrusy spin compare to the beloved original?
| Feature | Classic Tiramisu | Lemon Tiramisu |
|---|---|---|
| Main Flavor | Coffee and Cocoa | Lemon and Citrus |
| Alcohol Addition | Often includes Marsala | Option to add Limoncello |
| Texture | Creamy and Rich | Light and Refreshing |
| Occasion | Winter, formal dinners | Spring/Summer gatherings |
| Kids Friendly? | Often contains alcohol | Easily made alcohol-free |
Bottom line? Lemon tiramisu is the more playful, vibrant cousin of the classic. Perfect when you want something cool and cheerful!
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 410
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 28g
- Sugar: 21g
- Protein: 5g
Note: This will vary based on the exact ingredients and brands used. For lighter versions, consider using reduced-fat mascarpone and cutting back on sugar.
FAQs about Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
1. Can I make lemon tiramisu without eggs?
Yes! Use an egg-free lemon curd or a cornstarch-thickened lemon filling instead.
2. Is it okay to use store-bought lemon curd?
Absolutely. While homemade is amazing, store-bought curd works in a pinch and saves time.
3. Can I make it in individual cups or jars?
Yes! Use small dessert glasses or mason jars to make individual servings—perfect for parties.
4. What if I can’t find mascarpone cheese?
Cream cheese is a fine substitute, though it will be tangier and a bit firmer.
5. Can I freeze lemon tiramisu?
Yes. Freeze in a covered container and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Conclusion
Lemon tiramisu is the dessert you didn’t know you needed. It’s elegant yet easy, indulgent yet refreshing, and the perfect way to brighten up your dessert table. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself to something special, this lemony twist on a classic Italian favorite is guaranteed to wow. So grab those lemons, dip those ladyfingers, and layer on the love—because life’s too short for boring desserts!
