🍋 Limoncello Tiramisu

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A bright and zesty twist on the classic tiramisu! Layered with lemon-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and tangy lemon curd, this dessert is as refreshing as it is decadent. Perfect for spring, summer, or whenever you need a sunny pick-me-up.

Servings & Timing

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes

  • Chill Time: 4 hours

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

  • Servings: 12

Dietary Badges: No-Bake | Elegant Dessert | Alcohol-Infused | Crowd-Pleaser

Ingredients

→ Limoncello Syrup

  • Water

  • Sugar

  • Limoncello

  • Lemon juice

→ Tiramisu Base

  • Ladyfinger biscuits

  • Mascarpone cheese

  • Lemon curd

  • Limoncello

  • Lemon juice

  • Heavy cream

  • Sugar

→ Optional Topping

  • Heavy cream

  • Powdered sugar

  • Lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Make syrup – Simmer water and sugar until dissolved. Cool, then stir in limoncello and lemon juice.

  2. Prepare mascarpone mix – Beat mascarpone, lemon curd, limoncello, lemon juice, and sugar until smooth.

  3. Whip cream – In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into mascarpone mix.

  4. Assemble – Dip ladyfingers in limoncello syrup. Layer half in dish, top with mascarpone cream. Repeat.

  5. Chill – Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.

  6. Add topping – Whip cream and powdered sugar. Spread or pipe on top before serving. Garnish with lemon zest.

  7. Serve – Slice chilled, and enjoy!

Quick Tips

  • Don’t over-soak ladyfingers—they should be moist but not soggy.

  • Chill overnight for best flavor and texture.

  • Pipe whipped topping for a show-stopping finish.

💡 Introduction

Meet the sunshine-filled cousin of your favorite Italian dessert—Limoncello Tiramisu. With layers of ladyfingers dipped in lemony syrup, a velvety mascarpone blend swirled with lemon curd, and a cloud of whipped cream on top, this no-bake dessert is a citrus lover’s dream.

I created this for a spring baby shower, and it was such a hit, I now make it year-round. It’s light, luscious, and looks like a million bucks without much fuss—just the kind of dessert I love sharing with family, friends, and W-W clients who love a treat that feels indulgent yet fresh.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

🍋 Limoncello Syrup

Combine water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until dissolved. Let cool completely before adding limoncello and lemon juice—this ensures your alcohol doesn’t evaporate.

Tip: Make it ahead and refrigerate—flavors deepen beautifully overnight.

🧁 Mascarpone Cream

In a bowl, beat together mascarpone, lemon curd, sugar, limoncello, and lemon juice until creamy. Whip heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form. Gently fold it into the mascarpone mix.

Avoid overmixing—use a spatula and a light hand to keep it airy!

🥄 Assemble the Layers

Dip ladyfingers briefly in the syrup—just enough to absorb flavor without going mushy. Layer half in the dish, top with half the cream, repeat. Smooth the top and cover with plastic wrap.

❄️ Chill & Top

Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to set. Just before serving, whip cream and powdered sugar for the topping. Pipe or spread over the top, then finish with a zesting of lemon.

Tip: A glass trifle dish shows off the layers beautifully for parties!

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Ladyfingers: Use crisp Italian-style for best soak and structure.

  • Mascarpone: This is essential for that rich, authentic texture—don’t swap with cream cheese!

  • Lemon Curd: Adds tangy richness—store-bought or homemade works.

  • Limoncello: Choose a quality one for true citrus flavor. For alcohol-free, sub lemonade + lemon zest.

  • Heavy Cream: Must be cold to whip properly. Use 36%+ fat content for stability.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

Flavor Variations

  • 🍓 Add sliced strawberries between layers for a fruity twist.

  • 🫐 Fold in fresh blueberries for a sweet-tart pop.

  • 🌱 Mix in basil or mint zest for a refreshing herbal note.

Dietary Tweaks

  • Lower Sugar: Use monk fruit or erythritol-based sugar alternatives in syrup and whipped topping.

  • Lighter Option: Use light mascarpone and whipped topping instead of cream (though texture will differ).

  • No Alcohol: Swap limoncello with lemon juice + zest + splash of simple syrup.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve in individual glasses or jars for elegant dinner parties.

  • Add a shot of espresso to the syrup for a hybrid lemon-coffee tiramisu.

  • Garnish with candied lemon slices or edible flowers for presentation.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Storage

  • Refrigerate covered up to 3 days. Best served within 48 hours for peak texture.

Freezing

  • Not recommended—texture of mascarpone and whipped cream will change when thawed.

Make-Ahead

  • Can be made 1 day in advance—just add whipped topping right before serving.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving – 12 servings)

  • Calories: ~350 kcal

  • Protein: 4g

  • Carbs: 29g

  • Fat: 24g

  • Sugars: 18g

  • W-W Points (est.): 9–11 depending on portions and brands used

  • Allergens: Dairy, Eggs, Gluten, Alcohol (can be modified)

FAQs

Q: Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
A: Cream cheese can be used in a pinch, but it’s tangier and denser. Soften and blend thoroughly to mimic mascarpone’s smoothness.

Q: What lemon curd do you recommend?
A: Store-bought works great—look for one with real lemon juice and butter. Or make your own for extra freshness!

Q: Can I assemble this in a trifle dish?
A: Absolutely! It’s a gorgeous presentation and makes scooping easy.

Q: Can kids eat this?
A: The limoncello remains present in both the syrup and cream mixture, so it’s best for adults. For a kid-friendly version, use lemon simple syrup instead.

🧡 Kristy’s Note

This dessert makes me feel like I’m on a sun-drenched patio on the Amalfi Coast—even when it’s cold and grey outside. It’s light, dreamy, and totally celebration-worthy. Whether it’s Easter, Mother’s Day, or just a “treat yourself” weekend, this Limoncello Tiramisu brings the brightness!

More No-Bake Dessert Favorites

  • Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups

  • W-W Friendly Lemon Yogurt Parfaits

  • No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Bars

💬 Spread the Lemon Love!

Tried this Limoncello Tiramisu? I want to hear about it! Leave your rating below, share your twist in the comments, and tag your lemony creations on Instagram with #KristyCooksHealthy and #LimoncelloLayers. Let’s get zest-y!

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