Lemon desserts are loved for their refreshing, zesty flavors that bring a sense of lightness and brightness to any occasion. If you’re craving a decadent yet easy-to-make dessert, the No-Bake Lemon Tiramisu is the perfect choice. This unique take on the classic Italian tiramisu substitutes coffee and cocoa for tangy lemon curd and a refreshing lemon syrup, offering a citrus-infused, creamy indulgence without the need for an oven. Whether you are looking for a quick summer treat or a sophisticated dessert for a special occasion, this lemony dessert will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
This no-bake lemon tiramisu recipe is a game-changer. It’s light, creamy, and easy to prepare, yet bursting with the tangy, refreshing flavor of lemon. Here’s everything you need to know about this incredible dessert, from its origins to step-by-step instructions for assembling the perfect lemon tiramisu.
What is No-Bake Lemon Tiramisu?
No-bake lemon tiramisu is an innovative twist on the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu. Instead of the traditional coffee and cocoa flavors, this version features zesty lemon curd, a light lemon syrup, and creamy mascarpone cheese. The components come together to create an irresistible dessert that’s both tangy and creamy, with the added bonus of being quick to prepare.
This variation is perfect for people who are either avoiding ovens or want a quick, hassle-free dessert that’s still impressive and delicious. No-bake lemon tiramisu maintains the layering structure and overall feel of the classic tiramisu but infuses it with the refreshing citrus flavors of lemon.
Origin of Lemon Tiramisu
Tiramisu, meaning “pick me up” in Italian, originates from the Veneto region of Italy and dates back to the 1960s. It became popular internationally in the 1980s due to its rich flavors and simple preparation method. Traditionally, tiramisu is made with layers of ladyfingers soaked in espresso and layered with a mascarpone cheese mixture.
The lemon tiramisu, however, is a modern twist, likely inspired by the widespread popularity of citrus-infused desserts and the desire to create a lighter, fresher variation. By substituting lemon for the usual coffee and cocoa, this lemon tiramisu recipe takes the classic Italian dessert and transforms it into something new and exciting—perfect for those who love citrus flavors.
Ingredients for No-Bake Lemon Tiramisu
For the Lemon Syrup:
- ½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Optional: 2 tbsp limoncello (adds an extra kick if you’re in the mood for a boozy twist)
For the Lemon Curd:
- 4 egg yolks
- ½ cup sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ½ cup lemon juice
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
Mascarpone Cream:
- 400g mascarpone cheese
- 1¼ cups heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Optional: 2 tbsp powdered sugar (to sweeten the mascarpone cream, depending on your preference)
For Assembly:
- 200g dry ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- Lemon zest or white chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for No-Bake Lemon Tiramisu
Step 1: Make the Lemon Curd
Lemon curd adds a rich, tangy layer to the dessert that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mascarpone. Here’s how to make it:
- Whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a heatproof bowl.
- Set up a double boiler: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the bowl over the pot (making sure it doesn’t touch the water).
- Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This will take about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the curd coats the back of a spoon.
- Stir in the butter and continue mixing until smooth. Remove the bowl from the heat.
- Cool the lemon curd by placing it in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Syrup
The lemon syrup adds the right amount of moisture to the ladyfingers, infusing them with fresh lemon flavor.
- In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, water, and sugar.
- Simmer on medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- If you prefer a boozy version, stir in 2 tbsp of limoncello after removing the syrup from the heat.
- Let the syrup cool before using it to soak the ladyfingers.
Step 3: Whip the Mascarpone Cream
The mascarpone cream is the heart of this dessert, offering a rich, creamy texture that balances the tangy lemon curd and syrup.
- In a large bowl, whisk the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until soft peaks form. This will take about 3-5 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- For added sweetness, add powdered sugar (optional) and whisk until combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Lemon Tiramisu
Now comes the fun part—assembling the layers of your lemon tiramisu!
- Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled lemon syrup. Be careful not to soak them too long, as ladyfingers absorb liquid quickly.
- Arrange the soaked ladyfingers in a 9×9-inch dish or a trifle bowl, covering the bottom of the dish completely.
- Spread a layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
- Add a layer of lemon curd on top of the mascarpone cream.
- Repeat the layers—soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and lemon curd—until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of mascarpone cream.
- Chill the dessert in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the tiramisu firm up.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish the lemon tiramisu with freshly grated lemon zest or white chocolate shavings for an added touch of elegance.
Variations of Lemon Tiramisu
While the classic no-bake lemon tiramisu is delicious on its own, there are a few variations you can try to customize the dessert to your taste:
1. Limoncello Lemon Tiramisu
If you want a more intense lemon flavor with a bit of a kick, add limoncello to both the lemon syrup and the mascarpone cream. The slight alcohol infusion enhances the lemon’s tartness and adds a refreshing zing.
2. Blueberry Lemon Tiramisu
For a fruity twist, you can layer fresh blueberries in between the mascarpone cream and lemon curd. This adds color and a burst of sweetness that complements the tangy lemon flavor.
3. Vegan Lemon Tiramisu
To make this recipe vegan, you can swap out the mascarpone cheese with a dairy-free version, such as cashew cream cheese or coconut-based mascarpone. Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream, and ensure that your ladyfingers are egg-free or use a vegan substitute.
FAQs About Lemon Tiramisu
1. Can I make Lemon Tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, lemon tiramisu tastes best when made ahead of time. Chill it for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to set.
2. How long will leftover Lemon Tiramisu last?
Leftover lemon tiramisu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to enjoy it within this time frame for optimal freshness.
3. Can I substitute the lemon curd with lemon pudding?
While lemon pudding can be used as a substitute for lemon curd, lemon curd has a richer, more intense flavor. If you’re in a pinch, lemon pudding works fine, but it won’t offer the same depth of flavor.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Lemon Tiramisu is a delightful and refreshing twist on the traditional Italian dessert. With its creamy mascarpone layers, tangy lemon curd, and delicate lemon syrup-soaked ladyfingers, this dessert is the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a treat, this lemon tiramisu is sure to impress. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make—no oven required! So, get ready to dive into this delicious, zesty dessert, and enjoy the fresh, bright flavors of lemon in every bite.
By following this easy recipe, you’ll create a lemon tiramisu that will stand out as a refreshing, light dessert that everyone will love!
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The Ultimate No-Bake Lemon Tiramisu Recipe: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Favorite
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No-bake lemon tiramisu is an innovative twist on the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu. Instead of the traditional coffee and cocoa flavors, this version features zesty lemon curd, a light lemon syrup, and creamy mascarpone cheese. The components come together to create an irresistible dessert that’s both tangy and creamy, with the added bonus of being quick to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Syrup:
- ½ cup lemon juice
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Optional: 2 tbsp limoncello (for a boozy kick)
For the Lemon Curd:
- 4 egg yolks
- ½ cup sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ½ cup lemon juice
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Mascarpone Cream:
- 400g mascarpone cheese
- 1¼ cups heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Optional: 2 tbsp powdered sugar for extra sweetness
Assembly:
- 200g dry ladyfingers
- Lemon zest or white chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make Lemon Curd: Whisk yolks, sugar, zest, and juice over a double boiler until thickened. Stir in butter. Chill.
- Make Lemon Syrup: Simmer lemon juice, water, and sugar until dissolved. Cool. Add limoncello if using.
- Whip Mascarpone Cream: Beat mascarpone, cream, vanilla, and zest until soft peaks form.
- Assemble:
- Dip ladyfingers briefly in lemon syrup.
- Layer in dish: soaked ladyfingers → mascarpone cream → lemon curd.
- Repeat layers. Chill 6+ hours or overnight.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with lemon zest, white chocolate, or edible flowers.
Notes
This Lemon Tiramisu is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, with bright citrus flavors that make it light yet indulgent. It’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings or whenever you want a zesty, make-ahead treat that will impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake, Chill
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: ~320
- Sugar: ~22g
- Sodium: ~95mg
- Fat: ~18g
- Saturated Fat: ~10g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~32g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~5g
- Cholesterol: High
Keywords: Lemon Tiramisu Recipe, No-Bake Lemon Dessert, Lemon Mascarpone Tiramisu, Tiramisu with Lemon
