Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Lemon Tiramisu
- Ingredients for Lemon Tiramisu
- How to Make Lemon Tiramisu – Step by Step
- Pro Tips for Making the Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
- Best Ways to Serve Your Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
- Nutritional Information for Lemon Tiramisu
- Storage & Leftovers
- FAQs for Lemon Tiramisu
- Related Recipes for Lemon Tiramisu Lovers
- Conclusion & Call to Action
Discover how to make the Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe that combines the classic Italian dessert technique with bright citrus flavors. This refreshing twist on traditional tiramisu replaces coffee with vibrant lemon for a dessert that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying tiramisu for the first time, this Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe is foolproof, impressive, and guaranteed to delight your taste buds! Our homemade Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe has been perfected through countless tests to ensure you get amazing results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Tiramisu
- Ready in just 30 minutes of active preparation time!
- No baking required – perfect for hot summer days!
- Make-ahead friendly – actually tastes better the next day!
- Combines the creamy richness of traditional tiramisu with refreshing lemon flavors
- Impressive dessert that looks like it came from a fancy Italian bakery
- Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
- Great for special occasions, dinner parties, or summer gatherings
- Lemon Tiramisu is lighter than the traditional coffee version
According to Food & Wine magazine, no-bake desserts like this Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe are trending in 2025, with citrus-infused Italian classics seeing a revival on restaurant menus nationwide. For more information about the history of tiramisu and its variations, the Italian Food Forever website offers fascinating insights into this beloved dessert’s origins.
Ingredients for Lemon Tiramisu
For the Lemon Syrup:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 4-5 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons limoncello (optional)
For the Mascarpone Filling:
- 16 oz (2 cups) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 large eggs, separated (see note for egg-free alternative)
For Assembly:
- 24-30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting
- Thin lemon slices or additional lemon zest for garnish
Note: For an egg-free version of this Lemon Tiramisu recipe, substitute the egg mixture with 2 cups of whipped heavy cream combined with 8 oz of cream cheese and 1/2 cup powdered sugar.
For the freshest organic lemons, visit Melissa’s Produce to elevate your Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe. Want to learn more about the difference between types of citrus in baking? Check out this informative article on The Spruce Eats about Meyer lemons versus regular lemons.
How to Make Lemon Tiramisu – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, water, and granulated sugar.
- Heat over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves completely, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest and limoncello (if using).
- Allow the syrup to cool completely to room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling
Beat the Egg Yolks
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with half of the sugar (about 6 tablespoons) until pale and creamy.
- Add the mascarpone cheese and beat until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
Whip the Egg Whites
- In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy.
- Gradually add the remaining sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture using a rubber spatula.
Whip the Cream
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Lemon Tiramisu
- Pour the lemon syrup into a shallow dish.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the lemon syrup (about 2-3 seconds per side) – don’t soak them too long or they’ll become soggy.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8 inch glass dish or a 9-inch springform pan.
- Spread half of the mascarpone filling evenly over the ladyfingers.
- Create a second layer of dipped ladyfingers.
- Top with the remaining mascarpone filling and smooth the surface.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the Lemon Tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar.
- Garnish with thin lemon slices or additional lemon zest if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
- Use room temperature mascarpone: Cold mascarpone can become lumpy when mixed. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
- Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers: A quick dip (2-3 seconds per side) in the lemon syrup is sufficient. Oversoaking will cause them to become too soggy and collapse.
- Authentic Italian ladyfingers: Look for Italian savoiardi cookies, which have the perfect texture and density for Lemon Tiramisu.
- Chill thoroughly: The flavors in Lemon Tiramisu develop and meld beautifully with time. For the best flavor, make it a day ahead.
- Zest before juicing: Always zest your lemons before squeezing them for juice – it’s nearly impossible to zest a squeezed lemon!
- Egg safety: If you’re concerned about raw eggs, use pasteurized eggs or try the egg-free alternative mentioned in the ingredients list.
- Secret to the best Lemon Tiramisu: Add a tiny pinch of salt to the mascarpone filling – it enhances the lemon flavor and balances the sweetness.
For the finest ingredients for your Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe, you might want to check out Serious Eats’ guide to selecting quality mascarpone cheese. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science, using high-quality dairy products significantly impacts the final taste and texture of desserts like tiramisu.
Best Ways to Serve Your Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
The best Lemon Tiramisu deserves a special presentation! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve in individual glass cups or ramekins for an elegant presentation at dinner parties.
- Pair with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a beautiful color contrast.
- Accompany with a small glass of chilled limoncello for an authentic Italian experience.
- For summer gatherings, serve with a sprig of fresh mint for a refreshing touch.
- Lemon Tiramisu pairs beautifully with our [Homemade Lemon Sorbet] for a complete citrus dessert experience.
For an extra special touch, consider serving your Lemon Tiramisu with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream and a small lemon twist on top.
Nutritional Information for Lemon Tiramisu
(Per serving, based on 9 servings)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 32g
This Lemon Tiramisu recipe can be enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet. For a lighter version, you can reduce the sugar slightly and use low-fat cream cheese in place of some of the mascarpone.
For more information about the nutritional benefits of lemons, visit the USDA FoodData Central or check out Healthline’s guide to lemon benefits. Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune function and skin health.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Lemon Tiramisu will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other flavors.
- Freezer: While traditional tiramisu freezes well, Lemon Tiramisu is best enjoyed fresh. The high acid content in the lemon can affect the texture when frozen and thawed.
- Make ahead: This dessert actually improves when made 1-2 days in advance, making it perfect for planning ahead for special occasions.
For the best results when storing, keep your Lemon Tiramisu in the back of the refrigerator where the temperature is most consistent.

FAQs for Lemon Tiramisu
Can I freeze Lemon Tiramisu?
While you can freeze Lemon Tiramisu, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to freeze it, do so in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.
What can I use instead of mascarpone in Lemon Tiramisu?
If mascarpone is unavailable, you can substitute with 8 oz cream cheese blended with 1/4 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons sour cream. This won’t be exactly the same as authentic Lemon Tiramisu, but it makes a delicious alternative.
Can I make Lemon Tiramisu without alcohol?
Absolutely! The limoncello in this Lemon Tiramisu recipe is optional. Simply omit it or replace it with 1 tablespoon of lemon extract for extra lemon flavor without the alcohol.
How far in advance can I make Lemon Tiramisu?
You can make Lemon Tiramisu up to 2 days in advance. In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to develop more fully and results in a better-tasting dessert.
Related Recipes for Lemon Tiramisu Lovers
If you love this Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe, try these other citrus-infused desserts:
- [Classic Italian Tiramisu with a Twist]
- [Refreshing Lemon Cheesecake Bars]
- [Easy Limoncello Cake]
- [Creamy Lemon Panna Cotta]
- [No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake]
Conclusion & Call to Action
Now you know how to make the Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe at home! This bright, refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. The perfect balance of tangy lemon and rich, creamy mascarpone creates a dessert that’s impressive enough for special occasions yet simple enough to make any time you’re craving something special. With this Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe, you’ll impress friends and family with an authentic Italian dessert that features a delightful citrus twist.
Have you tried making this Lemon Tiramisu recipe? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your experience in the comments below or tag us in your social media posts with #LemonTiramisuRecipe.
For more delicious dessert recipes and cooking inspiration, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media. Happy baking!
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- Title: Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe – Easy Homemade Italian Dessert
- SEO Title: 7 Steps to the Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe – Easy and Delicious
- Meta Description: Discover the Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe with our easy step-by-step guide. This refreshing twist on classic Italian dessert features bright citrus flavors. Perfect for any occasion!
- Focus Keyword Phrase: Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe
Image Alt Text for Recipe Photos
- Main Hero Image: “Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe with layers of ladyfingers and lemon mascarpone cream”
- Process Shot 1: “Preparing lemon syrup for the Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe”
- Process Shot 2: “Assembling layers for Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe”
- Final Dish: “Completed Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe dusted with powdered sugar and lemon zest”

7 Steps to the Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe – Easy and Delicious
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus 4+ hours chilling)
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe combines the classic Italian dessert technique with bright citrus flavors. A perfect no-bake dessert for spring and summer gatherings that’s make-ahead friendly and incredibly impressive!
Ingredients
For the Lemon Syrup:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 4–5 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons limoncello (optional)
For the Mascarpone Filling:
- 16 oz (2 cups) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 large eggs, separated (see note for egg-free alternative)
For Assembly:
- 24–30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting
- Thin lemon slices or additional lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, water, and granulated sugar.
- Heat over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves completely, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest and limoncello (if using).
- Allow the syrup to cool completely to room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling
Beat the Egg Yolks
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with half of the sugar (about 6 tablespoons) until pale and creamy.
- Add the mascarpone cheese and beat until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
Whip the Egg Whites
- In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy.
- Gradually add the remaining sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture using a rubber spatula.
Whip the Cream
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Lemon Tiramisu
- Pour the lemon syrup into a shallow dish.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the lemon syrup (about 2-3 seconds per side) – don’t soak them too long or they’ll become soggy.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8 inch glass dish or a 9-inch springform pan.
- Spread half of the mascarpone filling evenly over the ladyfingers.
- Create a second layer of dipped ladyfingers.
- Top with the remaining mascarpone filling and smooth the surface.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the Lemon Tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar.
- Garnish with thin lemon slices or additional lemon zest if desired.
Notes
Egg Safety: If you’re concerned about raw eggs, use pasteurized eggs or try the egg-free alternative: substitute the egg mixture with 2 cups of whipped heavy cream combined with 8 oz of cream cheese and 1/2 cup powdered sugar.
Make Ahead: This dessert actually improves when made 1-2 days in advance, making it perfect for planning ahead for special occasions.
Quick Tip: Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers – a quick dip (2-3 seconds per side) in the lemon syrup is sufficient. Oversoaking will cause them to become too soggy.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
Keywords: Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe, Lemon Tiramisu, Italian Dessert, No-Bake Dessert, Citrus Dessert, Summer Dessert, Make-Ahead Dessert, Mascarpone Dessert