Lemon Tiramisu with Lemon Curd Recipe

There is something truly magical about a classic tiramisu, but when you swap the coffee for sunshine and zest, you get the vibrant and refreshing Lemon Tiramisu with Lemon Curd Recipe. This dessert is a delightful balance of creamy mascarpone, tangy lemon curd, and soft, syrup-soaked ladyfingers that melt in your mouth with every bite. If you’re craving a bright, luscious dessert that’s perfect for warm days or any occasion that calls for a little celebration, this Lemon Tiramisu with Lemon Curd Recipe will steal your heart and become your new favorite go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is truly the first step toward dessert success. Each ingredient in this Lemon Tiramisu with Lemon Curd Recipe plays a pivotal role, delivering creamy texture, zesty brightness, and a harmonious flavor profile that’s irresistible.

• Heavy cream (2 cups, cold): Provides the luscious, fluffy base that makes the tiramisu so velvety and rich.
• Lemon juice (4 tbsp + 1/3 cup): Adds that essential tangy zing that brightens every bite.
• Lemon zest (2 tbsp + 1 tbsp): Delivers concentrated citrus aroma and flavor without extra acidity.
• Lemon curd (1/2 cup): The star component responsible for the sweet and tart richness throughout.
• Granulated sugar (2/3 cup + 2/3 cup): Balances the tartness with gentle sweetness, adjusting both cream and lemon curd layers.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings warmth and depth, subtly complementing the lemon.
• Mascarpone cheese (15.87 oz, room temp): The creamy heart of tiramisu, adding indulgence and body.
• Ladyfingers (27): The delicate cake layer that absorbs the syrup and flavors beautifully.
• Lemon syrup (1 cup): Soaks the ladyfingers, infusing them with lemony moisture and sweetness.
• Limoncello (1/4 cup): An optional boozy addition that enhances lemon flavor with a spirited twist.
• Butter (1/3 cup): Adds richness and a smooth finish to the lemon curd.
• Kosher salt (1/4 tsp): Elevates all flavors and balances the sweetness gently.
• Egg (1) and Egg yolks (3): Essential for creating the luscious, thick lemon curd with perfect texture.

How to Make Lemon Tiramisu with Lemon Curd Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Curd

Start by whisking all curd ingredients in a saucepan over medium-low heat. This slow and gentle cooking ensures the eggs cook evenly without scrambling. Keep the mixture moving and don’t increase the heat even when the butter melts; this slow thickening, about five minutes, will give you that silky curd texture. Once thickened, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to catch any lumps, guaranteeing a perfectly smooth curd that will shine in the final dessert. Let it cool for about 20 to 30 minutes, covered tightly with plastic wrap to avoid a skin forming.

Step 2: Whip the Cream and Combine

In a large bowl, combine the cold heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon curd, sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip until medium peaks form — this fluffy base is what will make your tiramisu feel like pure cloud-like bliss. Fold in the room temperature mascarpone cheese gently on low speed until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and utterly inviting.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Quickly dip the ladyfingers into the lemon syrup (mixed with limoncello if you like) and arrange an even layer on the bottom of your baking pan. This step is all about soaking the ladyfingers just enough to soften them without turning soggy. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the soaked ladyfingers, smoothing it out. Then, generously spoon and smooth 4 tablespoons of lemon curd on top to add that punch of citrus brightness. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, top with the remaining mascarpone mixture, and smooth once again for a flawless finish.

Step 4: Chill and Final Touches

Cover your tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours — this allows the flavors to meld, textures to settle, and the dessert to become perfectly sliceable. Once chilled, add a final layer of lemon curd on top and smooth gently. This last flourish makes the dessert look inviting and ensures that signature burst of lemon in every forkful.

How to Serve Lemon Tiramisu with Lemon Curd Recipe

Garnishes

A little decoration goes a long way. Fresh lemon zest curls or thin lemon slices on top enhance the appearance and bring a fresh citrus aroma as you dig in. You can also sprinkle a few edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch that impresses every guest.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments like a crisp glass of sparkling wine or a delicate herbal tea to cleanse your palate. Serve alongside fresh berries for added freshness or a simple biscotti if you want crunch with your creamy delight.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow at your next party or family gathering, try assembling the tiramisu in individual clear glasses or pretty mason jars. Layering the colors will tease your guests’ eyes as well as their taste buds. Another fun idea is to scoop the tiramisu into shortbread cookie bowls for a charming handheld treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Lemon Tiramisu with Lemon Curd Recipe can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping it airtight ensures it doesn’t absorb other fridge odors and that it stays as fresh and creamy as when first made.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s best enjoyed fresh since the texture of mascarpone and ladyfingers may change upon thawing. If you must freeze, place the tiramisu in an airtight container and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve as much creaminess as possible.

Reheating

This dessert is meant to be served cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. The cool cream and lemon curd layers are what create the signature refreshing experience. If you find your tiramisu too firm from the fridge, simply let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

FAQs

Can I make the lemon curd ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making the lemon curd ahead is a great way to save time. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week when stored in an airtight container. Just make sure it has fully cooled before incorporating into your tiramisu.

Is it necessary to use Limoncello in the syrup?

Limoncello is optional but highly recommended if you want that extra lemony kick and subtle boozy complexity. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, just use lemon syrup without the Limoncello and the dessert will still be fantastic.

Can I substitute mascarpone cheese?

Mascarpone is essential to get that authentic creamy texture and mild richness. If you can’t find it, blending cream cheese with a little heavy cream can work as a substitute, but the flavor and texture will be less traditional and slightly tangier.

How long should the tiramisu chill before serving?

At least four hours is ideal to allow all flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soak perfectly. Overnight chilling intensifies the flavor even more, so if you can plan ahead, it’s worth the wait!

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger pan of tiramisu. Just be mindful to use a proportionally bigger vessel and extend the chilling time slightly for the layers to set evenly.

Final Thoughts

If you love desserts that feel like a burst of sunshine on a plate, this Lemon Tiramisu with Lemon Curd Recipe is your new best friend. It’s fresh, creamy, and just sweet enough with a perfectly balanced citrus punch that excites your senses. Go ahead and give it a try — your taste buds (and guests) will thank you for this dazzling, unforgettable treat!

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