Print

Lemon Tiramisu Recipe

4.7 from 81 reviews

A refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, Lemon Tiramisu combines creamy mascarpone and cream cheese with bright lemon flavors, layered with lady fingers soaked in lemonade or limoncello for a light, tangy treat perfect for spring and summer occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon extract
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 2 lemons

Other Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 10 ounces lady fingers (about 40 cookies)
  • 1 1/2 cups lemonade or limoncello

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheese mixture: Beat together cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, and sugar until super creamy. Add lemon juice, lemon extract, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, blending well to combine.
  2. Whip the cream: Using a stand mixer, beat heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
  3. Combine mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and smooth.
  4. Soak lady fingers: Pour lemonade or limoncello into a shallow bowl. Quickly dip lady fingers, turning to coat on all sides, without letting them sit more than a few seconds to prevent falling apart.
  5. First layer assembly: Arrange a layer of soaked lady fingers at the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cream mixture evenly over the lady fingers.
  6. Second layer assembly: Repeat with another layer of dipped lady fingers and top with the remaining cream mixture, spreading evenly.

Notes

  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
  • Lady fingers absorb moisture quickly, so dip briefly to avoid sogginess.
  • Chill the tiramisu for at least 4 hours before serving to set properly.
  • For an adult version, use limoncello; for a non-alcoholic version, substitute with lemonade.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Keywords: lemon tiramisu, lemon dessert, no-bake dessert, Italian dessert, citrus tiramisu, mascarpone dessert, lady fingers dessert