Introduction
Transform everyday ingredients into a light and zesty summer dessert with this no-bake Lemon Tiramisu! Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings, this recipe delivers big on flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. Get ready to impress your taste buds (and your friends) with minimal effort!
Why This Works
This Lemon Tiramisu is a game-changer because it skips the baking! No oven, no fuss, just creamy, lemony goodness. The combination of tangy lemon curd, airy mascarpone cream, and delicate ladyfingers creates a refreshing and surprisingly simple dessert that’s perfect for those hot summer days. It’s also easily customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.
Key Ingredients
- 🍋 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 🥚 4 large eggs, separated
- 🍯 1 cup granulated sugar
- 🧈 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 🥛 1 cup heavy cream
- 🧀 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 🍪 24 ladyfingers
- 💧 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Lemon Curd: Whisk together lemon juice, egg yolks, and ½ cup sugar in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve. Let cool completely.
2️⃣ Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining ½ cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
3️⃣ Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until just combined.
4️⃣ Assemble the Tiramisu: Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled coffee. Arrange half of the ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish. Spread half of the lemon curd over the ladyfingers. Top with half of the mascarpone mixture. Repeat layers with remaining ladyfingers, lemon curd, and mascarpone mixture.
5️⃣ Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set.
Handy Tips
- Use good quality mascarpone cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- If you don’t have ladyfingers, you can substitute with sponge cake or even graham crackers.
- Make the lemon curd and mascarpone mixture ahead of time to save time on the day of assembly.
Heat Control
The only heat used is for the lemon curd, which requires gentle, consistent stirring over medium heat to prevent scorching. Overheating will curdle the eggs, so constant attention is key.
Crunch Factor
The ladyfingers provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy layers. Their slight crispness against the smooth mascarpone and tangy lemon curd elevates the overall eating experience.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the lemon curd.
- Use instant espresso powder instead of brewed coffee for a stronger coffee flavor.
- To save time, buy pre-made lemon curd.
Storage Tips
Store leftover tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Gift Packaging Ideas
Individual portions in small, clear containers tied with ribbon make elegant and easy gifts. You can also present the entire dish beautifully in a festive serving platter.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Raspberry Lemon: Add a layer of raspberry coulis between the lemon curd and mascarpone.
🌟 Blueberry Lemon: Fold fresh blueberries into the mascarpone cream.
🌟 Amaretto Lemon: Add 1-2 tablespoons of amaretto liqueur to the mascarpone mixture.
🌟 Coconut Lemon: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and add toasted coconut flakes.
Troubleshooting
- Curdled Lemon Curd: If your lemon curd curdles, it’s likely due to overheating. Try whisking in a small amount of cold water or cream to help smooth it out.
- Soggy Ladyfingers: Don’t soak the ladyfingers for too long in the coffee, just a quick dip is sufficient.
- Mascarpone too thick: If the mascarpone mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to thin it out.
FAQ
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, the lemon curd and mascarpone mixture can be made a day in advance. Assemble the tiramisu up to 24 hours before serving.
- Can I freeze this? It’s not recommended to freeze this tiramisu, as the texture may change.
- What kind of coffee should I use? Any strong brewed coffee will work, but espresso or instant espresso powder will give a stronger flavor.
- Can I use different cookies? You can experiment with other cookies, but ladyfingers are traditionally used for their light and airy texture.
- Is it dairy-free? No, this recipe contains dairy products (mascarpone, butter, heavy cream).
Conclusion
This Light & Luscious Lemon Tiramisu is a delightful treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. It’s the perfect no-bake dessert for warm weather gatherings or a simple weeknight indulgence. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and enjoy every creamy, lemony bite!
5-Minute Lemon Tiramisu: Busy Cook's Dream Dessert
A quick and refreshing twist on the classic tiramisu, featuring zesty lemon flavors and a light, creamy texture, perfect for those short on time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup ladyfinger cookies
- 1/2 cup lemon curd
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whip until smooth and creamy.
- In serving glasses, layer ladyfinger cookies at the bottom, followed by a layer of lemon curd, and then the lemon mascarpone mixture. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
Tips
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon juice or zest to the mascarpone mixture.
- You can substitute ladyfinger cookies with sponge cake if preferred.