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Delicious lemon tiramisu dessert served on a plate with lemon slices

Lemon Tiramisu

A bright, airy lemon twist on a classic Italian dessert that balances citrus flavors with mascarpone richness, perfect for any meal or celebration.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 6 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Lemon Syrup
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3 lemons) Use unwaxed lemons and strain pulp for a smooth syrup.
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
Mascarpone Filling
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold Should be chilled for best whipping results.
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature Choose full-fat for best texture.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Assembly
  • 1 package ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi, 200–250g) Choose a firm and dry package for better absorption.
  • Extra lemon zest or candied lemon slices For garnish before serving.

Method
 

Make the Lemon Syrup
  1. Combine half a cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice with 1/2 cup water and 1/3 cup granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Stir gently until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture becomes slightly glossy, then remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
Whip the Mascarpone Filling
  1. Whip 1 1/2 cups cold heavy cream with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until soft peaks form.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup room-temperature mascarpone with 1 tablespoon lemon zest until smooth, then gently fold in the whipped cream until blended.
Layer the Tiramisu
  1. Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled lemon syrup—about 1 second per side—and arrange a single layer in your dish.
  2. Spread half the mascarpone cream evenly over the cookies, then repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining cream.
Chill and Serve
  1. Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, ideally overnight.
  2. Garnish with extra lemon zest or candied lemon slices just before serving.

Notes

Use cold heavy cream and room-temperature mascarpone for best results. Avoid over-soaking ladyfingers and store tiramisu properly for optimal freshness.