Limoncello Tiramisu: A Zesty Italian Dessert with Creamy Mascarpone Layers
This Limoncello Tiramisu swaps traditional coffee for vibrant citrus, layering ladyfinger cookies soaked in Limoncello syrup with a luscious mascarpone filling. Refreshing yet indulgent, it’s an effortless make-ahead dessert that shines at dinner parties or sunny brunches.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
4 hours
Calories:
Approximately 320 kcal per serving
ingredients
For the Limoncello Syrup:
1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
⅓ cup Limoncello liqueur (plus extra for dipping)
For the Mascarpone Cream:
8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For Assembly:
24 ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)
Zest of 1 lemon, for garnish
Directions
1. Prepare the Syrup
Whisk cooled coffee and Limoncello in a shallow dish. Set aside to meld flavors.
2. Make the Mascarpone Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream and sugar to soft peaks. Gently fold in mascarpone and vanilla until smooth.
3. Soak the Ladyfingers
Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the syrup (1–2 seconds per side) to moisten without sogginess. Arrange in a single layer in an 8×8″ dish.
4. Layer the Tiramisu
Spread half the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and remaining cream.
5. Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight preferred). Garnish with lemon zest before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I omit the alcohol?
Yes! Replace Limoncello with 2 tbsp lemon juice + 1 tbsp honey for similar brightness.
2. How long does it keep?
Store refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
3. Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes, but whip it with ¼ cup heavy cream to mimic mascarpone’s texture.
4. What if I don’t have ladyfingers?
Substitute with sponge cake cut into strips, adjusting soak time.
5. Is homemade lemon curd necessary?
Store-bought works, but homemade curd (with egg yolks) offers richer flavor.
Tools You'll Need
Mixing bowls & electric mixer
8×8″ baking dish or trifle bowl
Zester or microplane
Offset spatula (for smoothing layers)
Tips
Chill ingredients: Cold cream whips faster; room-temperature mascarpone blends smoothly.
Quality Limoncello: Opt for Italian brands like Pallini for authentic flavor.
Layer neatly: Trim ladyfingers to fit gaps for even layers.
Garnish creatively: Add berries or edible flowers for color.
Allergy Information
Contains: Dairy (mascarpone, cream), gluten (ladyfingers), alcohol.
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and vegan cream cheese.
Gluten-free: Substitute with GF ladyfingers or almond cake.
Conclusion
This Limoncello Tiramisu is a celebration of Italian flair and sunny citrus—each spoonful delivers creamy decadence with a refreshing zing. Whether you’re hosting a soirée or treating yourself, it’s a dessert that promises to dazzle. Share your creations with #ZestyTiramisuMagic and let the lemony love spread!
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