Easy Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Introduction
This easy lemon tiramisu puts a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert by incorporating bright lemon flavors. Light, creamy, and bursting with citrus, it’s perfect for warm days or whenever you crave a zesty treat.

Ingredients
- 20-24 Ladyfinger cookies (see notes)
- 1 cup Water
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 2-3 tbsp Lemon juice
- 2-3 pcs Lemon peels
- 3/4 cup Cream (30-35% fat)
- 1 lb Mascarpone cheese
- 3/4 cup Icing sugar
- 3/4 cup Lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp Lemon curd (for topping)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare a non-metallic serving dish of your choice, such as a 6″x9″ casserole dish.
- Step 2: Combine water, granulated sugar, and lemon peels in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Remove from heat, let the syrup cool, then whisk in the lemon juice. Strain out and discard the lemon peels, transferring the syrup to a bowl. Set aside.
- Step 4: In a chilled bowl, whip the cream for 4-5 minutes until soft to medium peaks form.
- Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese and icing sugar until smooth.
- Step 6: Gently fold the whipped cream and lemon curd into the mascarpone mixture, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 7: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the lemon syrup one at a time, then arrange a single layer in the serving dish.
- Step 8: Spread half of the mascarpone-lemon curd filling evenly over the soaked ladyfingers.
- Step 9: Make a second layer of syrup-soaked ladyfingers on top of the filling.
- Step 10: Spread the remaining mascarpone-lemon curd mixture over the second layer of cookies.
- Step 11: Optionally, drop small spoonfuls of lemon curd over the top and swirl gently for decoration.
- Step 12: Refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 13: Garnish with lemon slices before serving. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use homemade lemon curd for the freshest flavor, or choose a good quality store-bought version for convenience.
- For a stronger lemon aroma, add a little grated lemon zest to the mascarpone mixture.
- Make sure the cream is well chilled before whipping to achieve the best volume and texture.
- If ladyfingers are not available, sponge cake slices can be a good substitute.
Storage
Store the lemon tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes best when enjoyed within the first two days. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes for the best texture. Avoid freezing as it may affect the cream and texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this lemon tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes, this tiramisu actually benefits from resting. Refrigerate it for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Is this recipe egg-free?
Yes, this lemon tiramisu uses no eggs, making it a great option for those avoiding raw eggs or preferring an eggless dessert.
PrintEasy Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
This Easy Lemon Tiramisu is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of lemon-soaked ladyfinger cookies and a luscious mascarpone-lemon curd filling. Light, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor, this no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion and is simple to prepare ahead of time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Lemon Syrup
- 1 cup Water
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 2–3 tbsp Lemon juice
- 2–3 pcs Lemon peels
Filling
- 3/4 cup Cream (30-35% fat)
- 1 lb Mascarpone cheese
- 3/4 cup Icing sugar
- 3/4 cup Lemon curd (Homemade or store-bought)
Assembly
- 20–24 Ladyfinger cookies
- 2 tbsp Lemon curd (for topping, optional)
- Lemon slices (for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare the serving dish: Choose a non-metallic dish of any preferred shape, such as round, square, or rectangle. A 6″x 9″ casserole dish works well for this recipe.
- Make the lemon syrup: In a small saucepan, combine water, granulated sugar, and lemon peels. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Cool and finish syrup: Remove the syrup from heat and allow it to cool. Whisk in the lemon juice, strain out and discard the lemon peels, then transfer the syrup to a bowl and set aside.
- Whip the cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the cream for 4-5 minutes until soft to medium peaks form, creating a light and fluffy texture.
- Prepare mascarpone mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese and icing sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream and lemon curd, being careful not to overmix to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble the tiramisu – first layer: One by one, dip each ladyfinger into the lemon syrup quickly to soak them without becoming soggy. Arrange the soaked ladyfingers in a single layer in your serving dish.
- Spread filling: Evenly spread half of the mascarpone-lemon curd mixture over the ladyfinger layer.
- Second layer of ladyfingers: Dip the remaining ladyfingers in the lemon syrup and arrange them in a single layer over the filling.
- Top with remaining filling: Spread the rest of the mascarpone-lemon curd mixture on top of the second layer of ladyfingers.
- Optional lemon curd topping: Drop small spoonfuls of lemon curd over the top layer and use a spoon to create swirls for an attractive finish.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, decorate the tiramisu with lemon slices for a fresh and vibrant presentation. Enjoy!
Notes
- Ladyfinger cookies can be purchased or homemade; ensure they are crisp and fresh for soaking.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, adjust the lemon juice and lemon curd quantities according to taste.
- This recipe is egg-free, making it suitable for those avoiding raw eggs.
- Use a non-metallic dish to avoid any reaction with the acidic lemon syrup.
- Refrigeration time is crucial for best texture and flavor melding.
Keywords: Lemon Tiramisu, Eggless Tiramisu, No Bake Dessert, Lemon Dessert, Mascarpone Lemon Recipe, Citrus Dessert

