Description
This Easy Lemon Tiramisu is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of crunchy ladyfingers soaked in a zesty lemon syrup, creamy mascarpone mixture, and tangy lemon curd. Perfectly chilled and garnished with lemon slices and mint leaves, this dessert is light, fluffy, and bursting with vibrant citrus flavor.
Ingredients
Lemon Syrup
- 6 Tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- Zest from 1 lemon
Mascarpone Cream
- 8 ounce container mascarpone cheese
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Main Dessert
- 7 ounce package crunchy lady fingers
- 12 ounce jar lemon curd
Toppings
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for sprinkling)
- Mint leaves (for garnish)
- 6-8 lemon slices (for garnish)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare lemon syrup: In a saucepan over low heat, combine 6 tablespoons water, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice, and zest from 1 lemon. Simmer gently while stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Make mascarpone cream: In a large bowl, combine the 8-ounce mascarpone cheese, 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer on medium speed, whip the mixture for 2–3 minutes until it becomes smooth, fluffy, and forms stiff peaks. Set aside.
- Dip ladyfingers: Quickly dip both sides of each ladyfinger into the cooled lemon syrup to soak them without making them soggy. Arrange a single layer of soaked ladyfingers evenly in the bottom of a deep 9x9-inch baking dish.
- First mascarpone layer: Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the ladyfinger layer.
- Add second layer: Repeat the process by dipping the remaining ladyfingers in lemon syrup and placing them evenly over the mascarpone cream layer. Then spread the remaining mascarpone cream on top of this second ladyfinger layer.
- Top with lemon curd: Gently spread the entire 12-ounce jar of lemon curd evenly over the top mascarpone layer, ensuring full coverage.
- Chill the tiramisu: Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Serve and garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle 1/4 cup powdered sugar evenly over the top. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, lemon slices, and additional lemon zest for a bright and decorative finish.
Notes
- Do not over-soak the ladyfingers to prevent the dessert from becoming mushy.
- For best results, refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to fully develop and layers to set.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Adjust powdered sugar in mascarpone cream to taste if you prefer it sweeter or less sweet.
- This dessert can be prepared a day in advance, making it ideal for entertaining.