If you adore a twist on tradition, you are going to fall head over heels for this Lemon Tiramisu. Imagine everything you love about a classic tiramisu, but brightened up with tangy lemon curd, fluffy whipped cream, and soft ladyfingers bathed in lemonade. This dessert is the ultimate make-ahead treat for spring and summer gatherings, guaranteed to charm lemon lovers and skeptics alike. Every bite is a celebration of creamy, citrusy layers that come together in a way that’s totally irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Lemon Tiramisu are refreshingly simple yet each one plays a key role in bringing out the vibrant flavor and delightful texture this dessert is known for. Let’s have a closer look at why these essentials matter!

Lemonade: Use a fresh, tart option like Simply Lemonade to soak the ladyfingers and infuse them with zesty flavor.
Ladyfingers: Their sponge-like texture soaks up the lemony syrup, becoming sumptuously soft while holding each layer together.
Lemon curd: Whether homemade or store-bought, lemon curd delivers that bold citrus punch and creamy consistency every Lemon Tiramisu needs.
Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to light, cloud-like peaks, this forms the decadent base for the mascarpone layer.
Lemon zest: Adds pops of real lemon flavor and bright fragrance throughout the cream layer.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the creamy filling without any grit, ensuring everything is silky smooth.
Instant lemon pudding mix: Just a small scoop thickens the filling and boosts the lemony flavor.
Mascarpone cheese: The backbone of this dessert, mascarpone delivers richness and a classic tiramisu creaminess.
Garnishes (lemon slices, strawberries, mint): For that final flourish—these make each slice look as inviting as it tastes.

How to Make Lemon Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare Your Dish

Start by giving your 9-inch square baking dish a quick coating with nonstick spray. This little step ensures that every luscious square of Lemon Tiramisu lifts out beautifully when it’s time to serve. Set it aside—trust me, you’ll want this ready to go as soon as you begin assembling the layers!

Step 2: Soak the Ladyfingers

Pour your lemonade into a shallow bowl. Working one at a time (tongs are super handy here), dip each ladyfinger into the lemonade, giving them a quick turn to coat. Don’t let them sit too long—just enough to absorb moisture but keep their shape. Lay each soaked ladyfinger in a single layer in your prepared dish. This is where the Lemon Tiramisu really starts to build character!

Step 3: Layer the Lemon Curd

Spread half of the luscious lemon curd over the ladyfingers. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it across—every bit of biscuit should get its share. This layer sets the stage for the vibrant, citrus punch that makes Lemon Tiramisu so unique.

Step 4: Whip the Cream Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream and lemon zest. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip for one to two minutes until it starts to thicken. Next, sprinkle in the powdered sugar and just a bit of the lemon pudding mix, then continue beating until your mixture is rich, thick, and holds soft peaks. This will be the creamy soul of your Lemon Tiramisu!

Step 5: Fold in the Mascarpone

Add mascarpone cheese right into the whipped cream mixture. Mix on low until everything is smooth and blended, but don’t overwork it. The mascarpone brings the classic tiramisu richness and helps anchor those lively lemon tones.

Step 6: Stack the Layers

Spread half of your mascarpone-pudding mixture gently over the lemon curd. Add another layer of lemonade-soaked ladyfingers (repeat the brief dip in lemonade, just as before) and neatly set them atop the cream. Next, slather the remaining lemon curd over this layer and finish with the last of the mascarpone mixture, smoothing it all the way to the edges.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Cover your masterpiece tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours—or, even better, overnight—so the flavors meld and deepen. When you’re ready to serve, remove from the fridge, garnish as desired, slice into generous squares and enjoy every creamy, citrusy bite of your Lemon Tiramisu!

How to Serve Lemon Tiramisu

Garnishes

Lemon Tiramisu is stunning on its own, but the right garnish adds a pop of color and freshness. Top each serving with a twist of lemon slice, scatter a few juicy strawberries, or tuck in a sprig of fresh mint. These little details make every slice look like it came straight from your favorite bistro.

Side Dishes

Pair this dessert with a crisp glass of sparkling wine, or serve alongside a scoop of raspberry sorbet for a delightful contrast. If you’re feeling indulgent, a plate of delicate almond biscotti makes a wonderful nibble between bites of zesty Lemon Tiramisu.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of the classic family-style square dish, try assembling Lemon Tiramisu in individual cups or mason jars for a fun, portable treat. Layer in small trifle bowls for a showstopping dinner party dessert, or pipe the mascarpone filling into cannoli shells for an entirely new presentation that will surprise and delight your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Lemon Tiramisu (lucky you!), simply cover the dish tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days—the flavors will continue to develop, making each bite even more delectable.

Freezing

While freezing might seem tempting for make-ahead planning, Lemon Tiramisu just isn’t a fan of the freezer. The cream and mascarpone layers can become gritty or separate upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge within a few days of assembly.

Reheating

The joy of Lemon Tiramisu is that it’s meant to be served chilled! No reheating required—just slice, serve, and savor its cool, refreshing layers straight from the refrigerator.

FAQs

Can I use homemade ladyfingers?

Absolutely! Homemade ladyfingers are a wonderful way to bring an extra touch of warmth and personality to your Lemon Tiramisu. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before soaking in lemonade to keep the texture perfect.

Is there a substitute for mascarpone cheese?

If mascarpone isn’t available, try using full-fat cream cheese blended with a bit of sour cream or heavy cream for extra richness. The flavor will be just a bit tangier, but still delicious!

Can I make Lemon Tiramisu in advance?

Yes! In fact, making Lemon Tiramisu a day ahead allows the flavors to fully meld and the texture to become delightfully cohesive. Just keep it tightly covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have instant lemon pudding mix?

You can skip it—the filling will still be lovely and smooth, just slightly less firm. If you want to maintain the structure, a tablespoon of instant vanilla pudding or even a bit of cornstarch can work in a pinch.

How do I keep the ladyfingers from getting soggy?

The secret is in the quick dip—just coat the ladyfingers in lemonade briefly, don’t soak them. This way, they’ll soften just right during chilling without turning mushy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try Lemon Tiramisu as I am to share it with you! This recipe brings zest, sweetness, and creamy decadence to any table—so go ahead, whip up a batch and treat yourself (and your favorite people) to a taste of sunshine in every bite.