Lemon Tiramisu: A Zesty Twist on a Classic Dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Convenience: This dessert requires no baking, making it easy to prepare and perfect for warm days.

• Refreshing Citrus Flavor: The combination of lemon curd and lemonade-soaked ladyfingers provides a tangy and sweet balance.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: It can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Versatile Presentation: Serve in a large dish for family-style servings or individual glasses for an elegant touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ¾ cup lemonade (store-bought or homemade)

• 12 oz ladyfingers (approximately 2 packages)

• 1½ cups lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)

• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• ⅔ cup powdered sugar

• ¼ cup instant lemon pudding mix

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese

Garnish (optional):

• Lemon slices

• Fresh mint leaves

• Fresh berries

Directions

1. Prepare the Lemonade: In a shallow dish, pour the lemonade.

2. Soak the Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the lemonade, ensuring they are moistened but not soggy. Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

3. Make the Cream Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, lemon zest, powdered sugar, and lemon pudding mix. Whip the heavy cream separately until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.

4. Assemble the Dessert: Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the layer of ladyfingers. Top with half of the lemon curd, spreading it evenly. Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and lemon curd.

5. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serve: Before serving, garnish with lemon slices, fresh mint leaves, or berries if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 6 hours

• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Curd Substitute: If lemon curd is unavailable, use lemon pudding or a lemon-flavored cream cheese mixture.

• Individual Servings: Layer the ingredients in individual glasses or jars for a more elegant presentation.

• Add Fresh Berries: Incorporate fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries between the layers for added flavor and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the Lemon Tiramisu refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dessert is not suitable for freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.

• Reheating: Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator.

FAQs

How long should I refrigerate the Lemon Tiramisu before serving?

It's best to refrigerate the dessert for at least 6 hours, but overnight chilling allows the flavors to develop more fully.

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Yes, store-bought lemon curd can be used to save time. Just ensure it's of good quality for the best flavor.

What can I use instead of ladyfingers?

If ladyfingers are unavailable, you can substitute with sponge cake or pound cake slices.

Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, as long as the ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly, this dessert is suitable for vegetarians.

Can I make this dessert without lemon curd?

Yes, you can substitute lemon curd with lemon pudding or a lemon-flavored cream cheese mixture.

How do I know when the dessert is ready to serve?

The dessert is ready when the layers have set, and the flavors have melded together, typically after 6 hours of refrigeration.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

Traditional ladyfingers contain gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cake.

Can I use a different citrus fruit?

Yes, you can substitute lemon with lime or orange for a different citrus flavor profile.

How can I make the dessert more visually appealing?

Garnish with fresh berries, mint leaves, or thin slices of lemon for added color and elegance.

Can I prepare this dessert in individual servings?

Yes, layering the dessert in individual glasses or jars makes for a beautiful presentation and easy serving.

Conclusion

Lemon Tiramisu is a delightful and refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert. Its no-bake nature makes it convenient for warm weather gatherings, and its vibrant citrus flavor is sure to impress guests. Whether for special occasions or casual meals, this dessert offers a bright and elegant finish.