Name: This Limoncello Tiramisu Will Transport You Straight to Italy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-483894H25M42S
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 package ladyfingers (Savoiardi); 1 cup limoncello liqueur; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; ¼ cup water; 8 oz mascarpone cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 2 egg yolks (optional, for a richer custard); ¼ cup white sugar; Powdered sugar or extra lemon zest for garnish

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If you love classic tiramisu but want something a little brighter and more refreshing, this Limoncello Tiramisu is just what you need. It’s light, creamy, and has the perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy zing. With layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in limoncello and velvety mascarpone cream, every bite is pure sunshine. This is the kind of dessert that feels elegant yet effortless—perfect for a dinner party or just when you want to treat yourself to something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A fun twist on a classic – If you love traditional tiramisu, this lemony version is a must-try.
Refreshing and light – The citrus flavor makes it feel less heavy than the coffee-based original.
Easy to make ahead – Tastes even better after chilling overnight, so it’s perfect for entertaining.
No baking required – Just assemble, chill, and enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ladyfingers (Savoiardi)
Mascarpone cheese
Heavy cream
Powdered sugar
Limoncello liqueur
Lemon zest
Fresh lemon juice
Vanilla extract
Egg yolks (optional for a richer custard)
White sugar
Full list of ingredients with exact measurements is below.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Limoncello Syrup

In a shallow bowl, mix limoncello with fresh lemon juice and a bit of water. This will be used to soak the ladyfingers and give them that perfect citrusy kick.

Make the Mascarpone Cream

In a mixing bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture to keep it light and airy.

Assemble the Layers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the limoncello syrup (don’t let them soak too long or they’ll get too soft). Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in a dish, then spread half of the mascarpone mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and finish with the remaining mascarpone cream.

Chill and Set

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, dust with powdered sugar or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra pop of citrus flavor. Slice and enjoy this creamy, dreamy dessert!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers – A quick dip is enough to get them just right.
Use fresh lemon zest – It adds a more vibrant flavor than bottled lemon juice alone.
Let it chill overnight – The flavors blend beautifully when given time to set.
Want an alcohol-free version? Swap the limoncello for a lemon simple syrup.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Limoncello-Free – Use a mix of lemon juice, sugar, and water instead of the liqueur.
Berry Twist – Add fresh raspberries or blueberries between the layers for a fruity touch.
Dairy-Free Option – Use dairy-free mascarpone and coconut whipped cream for a lactose-free version.
Extra Lemon Flavor – Stir a little lemon curd into the mascarpone cream for an extra punch.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Limoncello Tiramisu pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled limoncello or a cup of espresso for a nice contrast. If you’re serving it at a gathering, a fresh berry compote on the side makes a great addition. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla gelato for a truly indulgent treat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This tiramisu freezes well! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Serving Leftovers: Enjoy straight from the fridge—no reheating needed!

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

What if I don’t have limoncello?

You can substitute a lemon syrup made with lemon juice, sugar, and water for a non-alcoholic version.

Do I need eggs in the mascarpone cream?

Egg yolks make it richer, but you can skip them and just use whipped cream for a lighter version.

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Absolutely! Swirling a little lemon curd into the mascarpone cream adds an extra depth of flavor.

The Sweetest Ending

Limoncello Tiramisu is the kind of dessert that feels like a little slice of Italy in every bite. It’s light, refreshing, and oh-so-creamy, with just the right balance of citrus and sweetness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, it’s sure to impress. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

This Limoncello Tiramisu Will Transport You Straight to Italy

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This Limoncello Tiramisu is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert. Light, creamy, and infused with citrusy limoncello, it’s the perfect no-bake treat for warm days or elegant gatherings. With layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in limoncello syrup and a velvety mascarpone cream, each bite is bursting with bright lemon flavor. Serve it chilled for a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshing.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the Limoncello Syrup

In a shallow bowl, mix limoncello, lemon juice, and water. This will be used to soak the ladyfingers.

Make the Mascarpone Cream

In a bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. If using egg yolks, whisk them with the white sugar until pale and creamy, then fold into the mascarpone mixture.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to keep it light and airy.

Assemble the Tiramisu

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the limoncello syrup (just a second—don’t let them soak too long).
Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in a dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over them.
Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and finish with the remaining mascarpone cream.

Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Before serving, dust with powdered sugar or a sprinkle of lemon zest. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, replace limoncello with a lemon syrup made of lemon juice, sugar, and water.
Ladyfingers should be dipped quickly to avoid getting too soggy.
Letting the tiramisu chill overnight enhances the flavors.
For extra lemon flavor, stir a bit of lemon curd into the mascarpone cream.