A Sunny Take on Tiramisu – No Coffee, No Bake, Just Pure Citrus Bliss
If you’re looking for a no-bake dessert that’s light, creamy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, this Lemon Tiramisu is the ultimate choice. It swaps the traditional espresso-soaked layers for lemon syrup-dipped ladyfingers and a luscious mascarpone lemon cream. Whether you’re celebrating a summer event, need a bright finish to a dinner party, or just want something different and delightful—this recipe hits all the right notes.
Why I Love This Recipe
- No-Bake & Make-Ahead: No oven time, no stress. Just chill and serve.
- Bright and Tangy: Perfect balance of creamy sweetness and lemon zing.
- Elegant Yet Easy: Impressive enough for guests, simple enough for any day.
- Versatile Presentation: Serve in a classic dish or dress it up in mini parfait cups.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 package (7 oz) ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- 1 cup lemon syrup or lemonade, for dipping
- Optional garnish: lemon zest, thin lemon slices, fresh mint
Directions
1. Whip the Cream
In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. Make the Lemon Cream
In a separate bowl, blend mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, and juice until smooth.
3. Fold It Together
Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mascarpone mixture. Mix until fluffy and smooth without deflating.
4. Dip the Ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into lemonade or lemon syrup. Do not soak—just a quick dunk to prevent sogginess.
5. Layer It Up
In an 8×8-inch dish:
- Place a layer of dipped ladyfingers
- Spread half of the lemon cream
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers
- Finish with the remaining cream mixture on top
6. Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors blend.
7. Garnish & Serve
Top with extra lemon zest, lemon slices, or mint leaves for a stunning presentation. Slice and enjoy chilled.
Tips for Success
- Use cold cream to whip faster and hold peaks.
- Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers—a quick dip is all you need.
- Chill well to let the tiramisu firm up and intensify in flavor.
- Want a stronger citrus hit? Add a splash of limoncello to the lemon syrup.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair this light dessert with:
- A glass of iced limoncello or Blueberry Lemonade
- Fresh berries on the side
- A crunchy biscotti for textural contrast
- A chilled glass of sparkling wine or prosecco
More Recipes You Will Love
- This Grasshopper Pie Is My Favorite No-Bake Dessert with a Mint Chocolate Twist
- This Pumpkin Delight Dessert Is My Favorite No-Bake Fall Treat
- This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie Is My Favorite Quick Dessert Hack
- These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Are My Favorite Sweet Obsession
- This Big Family Banana Pudding Is My Favorite Classic Dessert to Feed a Crowd
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Tiramisu is everything you want in a warm-weather dessert: light, luscious, no-bake, and bursting with citrus charm. It’s easy to make ahead, easy to love, and guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering.
If you give this recipe a try, don’t forget to tag @ChefManiac or leave a comment with your own twist. Want to see a berry version next? Let me know!
Leave a Reply