Name: Lemon Limoncello Italian Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 5–6 lemons); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup limoncello; Zest from 2 lemons; 16 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature); 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp limoncello; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 24–30 ladyfingers (savoiardi); Extra lemon zest for garnish; Thin lemon slices (optional); Fresh mint leaves (optional)

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Introduction

This Lemon Limoncello Italian Tiramisu offers a bright, citrusy twist on the classic dessert. Infused with fresh lemon juice and limoncello, it delivers a refreshing balance of creamy mascarpone and zesty flavors perfect for warm days or any special occasion.

A rectangular glass dish filled with a thick, smooth white cream layer spread evenly on top, sprinkled with fine yellow and white shreds resembling cheese or zest, covering the entire surface. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with some lemons and jars in the blurred background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 5–6 lemons)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup limoncello
Zest from 2 lemons
16 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp limoncello
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
24–30 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
Extra lemon zest for garnish
Thin lemon slices (optional)
Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the lemon syrup by combining the fresh lemon juice and granulated sugar in a saucepan. Heat gently for 3 to 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat, then stir in the limoncello and lemon zest. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone along with 2 tablespoons of limoncello and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
Step 3: Dip each ladyfinger quickly (1–2 seconds per side) into the cooled lemon syrup, then arrange a single layer in your serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers.
Step 4: Repeat the dipping and layering process with the remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, finishing with a smooth layer of cream on top.
Step 5: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Step 6: Before serving, garnish with extra lemon zest, thin lemon slices, and fresh mint leaves if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest in the syrup or garnish generously with zest and lemon slices.
Use chilled heavy cream for easier whipping and a lighter texture.
To add texture, sprinkle a handful of toasted almonds or pistachios between layers.
Substitute limoncello with a lemon-flavored liqueur or omit it for a non-alcoholic version by using additional lemon syrup.

Storage

Store the tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen with time, making it even more delicious on the second day. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A square piece of layered dessert sits on a white plate with colorful patterns. The dessert has three layers of soft, light brown sponge cake soaked in a light liquid. Between the sponge layers are two thick layers of pale yellow creamy custard. The entire top is covered with a fluffy white whipped cream layer, sprinkled with yellow crumbs or shavings. In the blurred background, a white dish with more of the same dessert is visible. The surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, making it a day in advance is ideal as it allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set perfectly.

What can I substitute for mascarpone if unavailable?

You can use cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream to mimic mascarpone’s texture, but keep in mind the flavor and consistency will be slightly different.