Description
This Easy Lemon Tiramisu with Limoncello is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of light mascarpone cream infused with zesty lemon, delicate sponge fingers soaked in limoncello, and tangy lemon curd. Perfect for a summer treat, this no-bake dessert is airy, citrusy, and elegantly simple to assemble.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 3 medium eggs (separated)
- 60 g caster sugar (divided)
Mascarpone Cream
- 350 g mascarpone cheese
- 2 unwaxed lemons (finely zested plus juice)
Soaking Liquid
- 3 tbsp limoncello
- 60 ml water
Assembly
- 8 trifle sponge fingers (ladyfinger sponges)
- 8 dsp lemon curd (store-bought)
Instructions
- Whisk Egg Whites: Separate the egg whites and yolks into two bowls. Whisk the egg whites with half of the caster sugar until stiff peaks form, then set aside.
- Prepare Egg Yolk Mixture: Add the remaining caster sugar to the egg yolks and whisk until the mixture thickens and turns pale.
- Combine Mascarpone and Zest: Add the mascarpone cheese to the egg yolk mixture and whisk until smooth. Stir in the finely grated lemon zest for fresh citrus flavor.
- Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold the whisked egg whites into the mascarpone mixture using a metal spoon, taking care to preserve the light and airy texture.
- Mix Soaking Liquid: In a shallow dish, combine the water, limoncello, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Start Assembly: Spoon 2 tablespoons of the lemon mascarpone cream into each serving glass and spread evenly. Add a spoonful of lemon curd on top.
- Soak and Layer Sponge: Quickly dip a sponge finger into the limoncello mixture, break it to fit the glass, and place over the lemon curd with the sugary side facing up. Repeat for all glasses.
- Add More Cream and Curd: Spoon another layer of mascarpone cream over the sponge fingers, spread gently, then add more lemon curd and place another sponge finger on top.
- Final Cream Layer: Finish each dessert glass with a generous spoonful of mascarpone cream spread on top.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the glasses for 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set before serving.
Notes
- Use unwaxed lemons for a clean, natural zest flavor.
- Handle egg whites gently to keep the tiramisu light and airy.
- Adjust the amount of limoncello for a stronger or milder alcohol flavor.
- Can be prepared a day ahead for convenience.
- Ensure sponge fingers are quickly dipped to avoid soggy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
