Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 ingredients and about 10 minutes of preparation time, this dessert is both simple and efficient.
- No-Bake Delight: Ideal for warm days or when you want to keep the oven off.
- Versatile: Perfect for spring gatherings, cookouts, or any occasion that calls for a light and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
- Water
- Granulated Sugar
- Limoncello
- Lemon Juice
- Ladyfinger Cookies
- Mascarpone Cheese
- Lemon Curd
- Heavy Whipping Cream
- Powdered Sugar
- Lemon Zest
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Limoncello Syrup: In a saucepan, combine equal parts water and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in limoncello. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone cheese until smooth. Add lemon curd and mix until well combined. Stir in a splash of limoncello and fresh lemon juice.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled limoncello syrup, ensuring they are moist but not soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of your serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve: Before serving, garnish with freshly grated lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: At least 4 hours (overnight recommended)
Variations
- Alcohol-Free Version: Replace limoncello with a mixture of lemon juice and simple syrup for a non-alcoholic alternative.
- Berry Addition: Incorporate layers of fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ladyfinger cookies to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the tiramisu for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheating: This dessert is best enjoyed cold; reheating is not recommended.
FAQs
What is Limoncello Tiramisu?
Limoncello Tiramisu is a variation of the traditional Italian dessert, replacing coffee and cocoa flavors with lemon-infused components, primarily using limoncello liqueur and lemon curd.
Can I make this dessert without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the limoncello with a mixture of lemon juice and simple syrup to achieve a similar citrus flavor without the alcohol.
How long should I refrigerate the tiramisu before serving?
It’s best to refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling allows the flavors to meld more thoroughly and provides a firmer texture.
Can I use store-bought lemon curd?
Absolutely, store-bought lemon curd works well and saves time. Ensure it’s of good quality for the best flavor.
What type of ladyfingers should I use?
Use the crisp, Italian-style ladyfingers known as Savoiardi, as they hold up better when soaked and provide the desired texture.
How do I prevent the ladyfingers from becoming too soggy?
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the limoncello syrup; do not let them soak. A brief dip ensures they absorb enough liquid without becoming overly saturated.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Yes, Limoncello Tiramisu is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Preparing it a day in advance enhances the flavor and texture.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to an airtight container.
Can I freeze Limoncello Tiramisu?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 weeks.
Limoncello Tiramisu
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Limoncello Tiramisu is a refreshing, no-bake Italian dessert featuring layers of limoncello-soaked ladyfingers and a luscious mascarpone lemon curd filling. This simple yet elegant treat is perfect for gatherings, offering a delightful balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup limoncello
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup lemon curd
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Limoncello Syrup:
- Combine water and sugar in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and stir in limoncello. Let cool.
- Make Mascarpone Filling:
- Beat mascarpone cheese until smooth.
- Mix in lemon curd, a splash of limoncello, and lemon juice.
- Whip Cream:
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
- Assemble Tiramisu:
- Dip ladyfingers in limoncello syrup quickly.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in a serving dish.
- Spread half the mascarpone filling on top.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and remaining filling.
- Chill:
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve:
- Garnish with lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- Substitute limoncello with lemon juice and simple syrup for an alcohol-free option.
- Add fresh berries for extra flavor and texture.
- Use gluten-free ladyfingers for a gluten-free dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
