Description
This refreshing Lemon Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of lemonade-soaked ladyfingers, tangy lemon curd, and a creamy mascarpone mixture infused with lemon zest. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this no-bake dessert offers a bright, citrusy flavor that’s both light and indulgent.
Ingredients
Base
- ¾ cup lemonade (Simply Lemonade recommended)
- 12 ounces ladyfingers (two 7-ounce packs)
Filling
- 1 ½ cups lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup instant lemon pudding mix (partial package)
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- Lemon slices
- Strawberries
- Fresh mint
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a 9-inch square baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
- Soak Ladyfingers: Pour the lemonade into a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the lemonade, turning to coat thoroughly. Allow excess liquid to drip off before placing the ladyfingers in a single layer in the prepared dish.
- First Lemon Curd Layer: Spread half of the lemon curd evenly over the soaked ladyfingers to create the first citrus layer.
- Make Cream Mixture: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and lemon zest using a mixer for 1-2 minutes until combined. Gradually add powdered sugar and lemon pudding mix while continuing to beat until the mixture thickens, scraping down the bowl as needed.
- Add Mascarpone: Incorporate the mascarpone cheese into the cream mixture and beat until smooth and fully combined. This creates the creamy tiramisu layer.
- Second Ladyfingers Layer: Dip the remaining ladyfingers in lemonade as before, drain excess, and layer them over the lemon curd in the baking dish.
- Second Lemon Curd Layer: Spread the remaining lemon curd evenly over the second layer of ladyfingers.
- Top with Cream Mixture: Gently spread the remaining mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the top of the lemon curd layer.
- Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with optional fresh lemon slices, strawberries, or mint leaves. Cut into squares and enjoy this chilled, refreshing dessert.
Notes
- Use lemonade with a natural flavor for best taste.
- If lemon curd is not available, you can make a homemade version using lemons, sugar, eggs, and butter.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Ensure ladyfingers are dipped briefly to avoid sogginess.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead to enhance flavors.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option, though it will alter the texture.
