Fresh Lemon Limoncello Tiramisu

Featured in Sweet Moments of Joy.

Lemon-flavored tiramisu with mascarpone, limoncello, and lemon curd. Takes 40 minutes plus chilling, serves 12.
Barbara Chef
Recipe by Barbara
Updated on Sun, 09 Feb 2025 18:13:12 GMT
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Limoncello Tiramisu | gracefulflavors.com
A bright twist on classic tiramisu combines creamy mascarpone layers with zesty limoncello liqueur. This elegant no-bake dessert delivers refreshing citrus notes alongside rich, indulgent cream. Found that letting flavors meld overnight creates the perfect balance of lemon and cream.

Essential Ingredients

  • Mascarpone cheese - Creates silky layers
  • Limoncello - Provides citrus kick
  • Heavy cream - Adds light texture
  • Ladyfingers - Forms classic base
  • Fresh lemon zest - Enhances flavor
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Easy Limoncello Tiramisu | gracefulflavors.com

Detailed Instructions

  • Whip cream until soft peaks form
  • Beat mascarpone with limoncello
  • Fold whipped cream into mascarpone
  • Quick-dip ladyfingers in liqueur
  • Layer soaked cookies and cream
  • Repeat layers
  • Chill minimum 4 hours
  • Garnish before serving

The secret is quick-dipping ladyfingers - too long creates soggy layers.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerate up to 3 days
  • Freeze up to 1 month
  • Cover tightly with wrap
  • Thaw overnight in fridge

Chef's Helpful Tips:

  • Use room temp mascarpone
  • Test ladyfinger soak time
  • Layer evenly for presentation
  • Garnish just before serving

Garnishing Ideas:

  • Fresh lemon zest curls
  • Candied lemon slices
  • Edible flowers
  • Fresh berries

Non-Alcoholic Version:

  • Use lemon syrup
  • Mix citrus juices
  • Add vanilla extract
  • Increase lemon zest

Perfect Pairings:

  • Limoncello digestif
  • Fresh berry compote
  • Espresso or coffee
  • Prosecco

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • For runny filling - whip cream firmer
  • For dry cookies - increase soaking liquid
  • For bitter taste - adjust sugar
  • For dense texture - fold more gently
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Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe | gracefulflavors.com

Make-Ahead Success:

  • Prepare components separately
  • Layer just before chilling
  • Keep garnishes fresh
  • Transport carefully

The beauty of this dessert lies in its versatility - elegant enough for special occasions but simple enough for casual gatherings.

Pro Tips:

  • Quality limoncello matters
  • Fresh citrus makes difference
  • Check mascarpone freshness
  • Keep ingredients cold

Whether served at a summer party or holiday gathering, this tiramisu offers a refreshing twist on tradition.

Recipe Tips & Questions

→ Can I make this alcohol-free?
Yes, replace limoncello with lemon syrup or juice.
→ How long will this keep?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days.
→ Can I use store-bought lemon curd?
Yes, quality store-bought curd works well.
→ Why are my ladyfingers soggy?
Dip quickly in syrup, don't soak them.
→ Can I freeze this dessert?
Not recommended as texture changes when thawed.

Zesty Limoncello Tiramisu

A bright, citrusy version of tiramisu made with limoncello liqueur and lemon curd - a refreshing Italian dessert perfect for summer.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
Recipe by: Barbara

Recipe Type: Irresistible Desserts

Skill Level: Moderate

Style of Cooking: Italian

Makes: 12 Serves (1 11x8-inch tiramisu)

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian

What You'll Need

→ Limoncello Syrup

01 1 ⅜ cup granulated sugar (90 grams)
02 2 ⅔ tablespoons lemon zest
03 1¼ cup lemon juice (70 ml)
04 ⅖ cup Limoncello liqueur (100 ml)

→ Limoncello Mascarpone

05 2 ⅔ cups Mascarpone cheese (420 grams)
06 2 ¾ tablespoons lemon zest
07 3 ⅓ tablespoons lemon juice (40 ml)
08 3 ⅓ tablespoons Limoncello liqueur
09 1 ⅖ cup lemon curd
10 2 ⅓ cups heavy cream (320 ml)
11 1¼ cup powdered sugar (38 grams)

→ Assembly

12 24 ladyfinger cookies
13 1⅕ cup lemon curd

Let's Cook!

Step 01

Combine sugar, lemon zest, and juice in pan. Bring to boil until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, add Limoncello and cool.

Step 02

Beat mascarpone with lemon zest, juice, and Limoncello until smooth. Mix in lemon curd.

Step 03

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold into mascarpone mixture in two parts.

Step 04

Dip ladyfingers in syrup and arrange in pan. Spread half mascarpone mixture and ⅓ cup lemon curd.

Step 05

Repeat with remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone. Optionally pipe edges and garnish.

Step 06

Refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.

Cook's Notes

  1. Can adjust lemon flavor to taste
  2. Other citrus liqueurs can be substituted
  3. Best made ahead for flavors to meld

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 11x8-inch baking pan
  • Electric mixer
  • Small saucepan
  • Piping bag (optional)

Allergy Notes

Always check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.
  • Contains dairy (mascarpone, cream)
  • Contains eggs (ladyfingers)
  • Contains wheat (ladyfingers)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

These values are estimates and should be used as a general guide.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 20 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 30 g
  • Protein: 4 g