Lemony Tiramisu Delight

Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a truly refreshing and incredibly easy **Lemon Tiramisu**! If you’re a devoted lemon lover, prepare to be enchanted by this vibrant twist on the classic Italian dessert. Forget heavy, complicated recipes; this no-bake wonder combines light, creamy mascarpone with bright, tangy lemon pudding and delicate ladyfingers, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures that’s absolutely perfect for spring gatherings, summer soirées, or simply a delightful treat any time of year. This easy lemon tiramisu recipe is designed to bring sunshine to your dessert table with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Craving more zesty delights? You won’t want to miss these 30 Irresistible Lemon Desserts, our creamy Lemon Coconut Cream Cheese Dessert, and the delightfully scrumptious Fluffy Lemon Pudding Cake!

Contents

Why You’ll Adore This No-Bake Lemon Tiramisu

This dreamy, luscious Lemon Tiramisu isn’t just a dessert; it’s a culinary experience that promises to become your new favorite. It takes the beloved elements of traditional tiramisu and infuses them with an invigorating citrus burst. Here’s why this no-bake lemon dessert will win your heart:

Bright and Refreshing: Each spoonful is a delightful dance of invigorating lemon flavor, perfectly balanced with the richness of mascarpone. Layers of tangy lemon pudding, silky mascarpone cream, and soft ladyfingers create a light, creamy texture that’s incredibly satisfying without being overly heavy. It’s a palate cleanser and a dessert all in one.
Effortlessly No-Bake: Dreading turning on your oven during warmer months? This recipe is your savior! It requires absolutely no baking, making it ideal for hot days or when you simply prefer a quick, fuss-free dessert preparation. All you need is a mixer and a refrigerator to create this masterpiece.
Conveniently Make-Ahead: This lemon tiramisu is the ultimate make-ahead dessert. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the ladyfingers to fully absorb the lemon syrup, resulting in an even more exquisite taste and perfect texture. Just cover it and chill, making entertaining a breeze.
Customizable to Your Liking: Whether you prefer to craft your own homemade lemon curd for an extra touch of artisanal flavor or opt for the convenience of store-bought, this recipe is incredibly flexible. Feel free to adjust the sweetness, add extra lemon zest for a more intense citrus punch, or experiment with different toppings. It’s your canvas to personalize!
Elegantly Simple: Despite its sophisticated appearance, this lemon tiramisu is surprisingly simple to assemble. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to create a dessert that looks like it came straight from a gourmet bakery. We promise, anyone can make this impressive treat. It’s perfect for impressing guests with minimal stress.

Essential Ingredients for Your Lemon Tiramisu

Crafting the perfect Lemon Tiramisu starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature creamy, tangy, and refreshing flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delightful no-bake lemon dessert.

For the Bright Lemon Syrup

This syrup is essential for infusing the ladyfingers with a bright, zesty flavor, acting as a crucial element that sets our lemon tiramisu apart from traditional coffee-soaked versions.

2 Tablespoons grated lemon zest (from about 2 large lemons for maximum aroma)
⅔ cup fresh lemon juice (approx. 4 large lemons for the best, vibrant flavor)
¼ cup granulated sugar (to balance the tartness of the lemon juice)

For the Ladyfingers Base

These delicate cookies form the structural base of the tiramisu, absorbing the lemon syrup to create a soft, flavorful layer.

16-18 ladyfingers (savoiardi cookies, often found in the cookie or international aisle)

For the Creamy Lemon Mascarpone Cheese Filling

This rich and airy filling is the heart of the tiramisu, providing a luxurious creaminess that perfectly complements the bright lemon. Using both mascarpone and cream cheese offers a delightful balance of richness and tang.

1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled, for optimal whipping)
¾ cup powdered sugar (also known as confectioners’ sugar, for a smooth, sweet cream; add more to taste if you prefer a sweeter filling)
1 (8-oz.) container mascarpone cheese (softened slightly at room temperature)
1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese (softened, full-fat for best results)
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 2 large lemons, to add a tangy zest to the cream)
2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2 large lemons, for an aromatic citrus boost)

For the Velvety Lemon Pudding / Curd Filling

This layer intensifies the lemon flavor and contributes to the dessert’s smooth, luscious texture. The combination of instant pudding and lemon curd creates a wonderfully thick and tangy filling.

2 (3.4-oz.) packages lemon instant pudding mix (ensure it’s instant, not cook-and-serve)
2 cups whole milk or a combination of 1 cup whole milk and 1 cup heavy whipping cream (we recommend the latter for an extra rich pudding)
12 ounces of lemon curd (approximately 1 ½ cups; homemade is fantastic, or you can purchase it already made for convenience)
A couple drops of yellow food coloring (optional, if you desire a brighter yellow hue, depending on the natural color of your pudding and curd)

Optional Topping for Garnish

A final flourish of whipped cream and fresh lemon zest adds an elegant touch and another layer of creamy texture.

1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
Lemon zest from one lemon (for grating on top of the whipped cream, or use thin lemon slices for decoration)

Detailed Instructions: How to Craft Your Perfect Lemon Tiramisu

Creating this stunning Lemon Tiramisu is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure a perfectly layered, creamy, and zesty dessert every time.

1. Prepare the Aromatic Lemon Syrup

In a medium-sized microwavable bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, grated lemon zest, and granulated sugar. You can even add the juiced lemon halves to the bowl for extra aroma while heating.
Microwave the mixture on HIGH for approximately 20 seconds. This gentle heating helps the sugar dissolve completely without cooking the lemon juice.
Whisk the mixture thoroughly until all the sugar crystals have dissolved and the syrup is clear.
Allow the lemon syrup to cool down completely to room temperature before using. This is crucial for preventing the ladyfingers from becoming too soggy.

2. Craft the Silky Lemon Mascarpone Cream Cheese Filling

Begin by pouring the chilled heavy whipping cream into a large, cold mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar to the cream.
Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. The cream should be light, fluffy, and hold its shape. Carefully transfer this whipped cream to a separate bowl and set it aside.
In the *same* mixing bowl (no need to wash it!), add the softened mascarpone cheese and cream cheese. Beat them with the electric mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and thoroughly combined, with no lumps.
Add the 4 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of lemon zest to the mascarpone and cream cheese mixture. Beat again until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold the reserved whipped cream into the lemon mascarpone mixture using a spatula. Mix lightly until just incorporated, maintaining the airy texture. Set this creamy filling aside.

3. Create the Luscious Lemon Pudding / Curd Filling

In another large bowl, combine the instant lemon pudding mix with 2 cups of liquid (either whole milk or the recommended 1 cup whole milk + 1 cup heavy whipping cream). It’s important to note this is *not* the 4 cups of milk typically called for on pudding box instructions, as we want a thicker consistency.
Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the pudding begins to thicken.
Stir in the lemon curd until thoroughly combined and the mixture is thick and smooth. If desired, add a couple of drops of yellow food coloring to enhance the vibrant lemon color.

4. Assemble Your Stunning Lemon Tiramisu

Take your cooled lemon syrup and an 8-inch square baking dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger, one at a time, into the lemon juice mixture. Do not soak them; a quick dip is all that’s needed to prevent them from becoming too saturated.
Arrange 8 of the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Evenly spread half of the Lemon Mascarpone Cream Cheese Filling over the layer of ladyfingers. Use a spatula to smooth the surface.
Next, spread half of the Lemon Pudding / Curd Filling evenly over the mascarpone cream cheese layer, smoothing it out with your spatula.
Repeat the layering process one more time: add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining Lemon Mascarpone Cream Cheese Filling, and finally the rest of the Lemon Pudding / Curd Filling.
Cover the tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill. For optimal flavor and set, chill for at least 2 hours, or ideally, overnight.
Before serving, if desired, garnish with an additional dollop of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, or delicate lemon slices for an elegant presentation.

Helpful Tips for Tiramisu Success

Achieving the perfect Lemon Tiramisu is easy with a few simple tricks. Keep these pointers in mind for a dessert that’s consistently delicious and perfectly set:

Chill Your Bowls and Cream: For the fluffiest whipped cream, ensure your mixing bowl and whisk attachment are thoroughly chilled (pop them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes). Use very cold heavy whipping cream.
Don’t Over-Dip Ladyfingers: Ladyfingers are like sponges. A quick dip in the lemon syrup is all they need. Over-soaking will lead to a soggy tiramisu. You want them moistened but still with some structure.
Soften Cheeses Properly: Make sure your mascarpone and cream cheese are softened to room temperature. This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling that blends beautifully with the whipped cream.
Gentle Folding is Key: When incorporating the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, use a gentle folding technique with a spatula. This preserves the airiness of the whipped cream, contributing to a light and delicate texture for your tiramisu.
Patience with Chilling: The chilling time is not just for setting; it’s essential for the flavors to fully meld and deepen. An overnight chill truly makes a difference, allowing the ladyfingers to soften perfectly and all the citrusy goodness to infuse throughout.
Fresh Lemon Zest and Juice: Always use fresh lemons for both zest and juice. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant, complex flavor and aroma that fresh lemons provide. The zest, in particular, carries much of the lemon’s essential oils and brightens the entire dessert.

Creative Substitutions & Variations

This Lemon Tiramisu recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand.

Whipped Cream Shortcut: If you’re short on time or prefer not to whip your own cream, you can substitute the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar with 4 cups of store-bought whipped topping (like Cool Whip). Use 2 cups for the lemon mascarpone cream filling and the remaining 2 cups for the optional topping.
Mascarpone Alternatives: While mascarpone offers unparalleled richness, if you don’t have it, you can use all cream cheese for the mascarpone cream layer. The dessert will have a slightly tangier profile, but it will still be wonderfully creamy and delicious. Conversely, if you only have mascarpone, you can use it instead of cream cheese.
Add Berries: For an extra layer of flavor and color, consider adding fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries between the layers or as a garnish. Their tart sweetness pairs beautifully with lemon.
Liqueur for Adults: For an adult version, you can add a tablespoon or two of limoncello to the lemon syrup before dipping the ladyfingers.

Storing Your Delicious Lemon Tiramisu

Proper storage ensures your Lemon Tiramisu remains fresh and delicious for days, making it an excellent make-ahead option.

Once assembled, securely cover your creamy lemon tiramisu with plastic wrap. This prevents it from absorbing odors from the refrigerator and keeps it from drying out.
Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen and improve after the first day, making it an even more delightful treat.
Can you freeze Lemon Tiramisu? Yes, you can! While the texture might become slightly softer upon thawing, it still tastes wonderful. Wrap the tiramisu tightly in multiple layers of plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this Lemon Tiramisu without mascarpone cheese?

Absolutely! If mascarpone isn’t available or you prefer a slightly tangier flavor, you can use an equal amount of softened cream cheese in place of the mascarpone. The texture will be similar, though the flavor will lean more towards a lemon cheesecake.

Is this Lemon Tiramisu recipe suitable for children?

Yes, this recipe is completely kid-friendly! Unlike traditional tiramisu, it contains no alcohol. It’s simply bursting with bright, sweet lemon flavor and delightful creamy layers that kids (and adults!) will adore.

What can I use as a substitute for ladyfingers?

If you can’t find ladyfingers, don’t worry! You have a few great alternatives. Vanilla wafer cookies, slices of sponge cake, or even pound cake can work well. Just remember to dip them very quickly in the lemon syrup, as they might absorb liquid faster than ladyfingers and become too soggy if over-soaked.

Can I use store-bought lemon curd in this recipe?

Definitely! While homemade lemon curd offers a special touch, high-quality store-bought lemon curd is a fantastic time-saver and still delivers incredible flavor. Choose a brand you trust for the best results.

Your Turn to Create the Perfect Lemon Tiramisu!

This Easy Lemon Tiramisu Recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy, refreshing, and tangy flavors, making it an ideal no-bake dessert for any lemon enthusiast or anyone craving a light treat in warm weather. Its simplicity and impressive presentation make it a go-to for both casual family dinners and special occasions.

We absolutely love seeing your culinary creations! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and let us know what you think. You can also share your beautiful dessert photos on social media by tagging us:

📌 Pinterest
📸 Instagram
👍 Facebook

We can’t wait to see your delightful version of this Lemon Tiramisu!

Craving More Delicious Desserts?

If you’re still in the mood for vibrant, fruity flavors and easy-to-make treats, here are a few more refreshing desserts to add to your baking (or no-baking!) list:

No-Bake Strawberry Cream Layered Dessert
4-Ingredient No-Bake Lemon Pie
Easy No-Bake Cheesecake
30 Irresistible Strawberry Desserts
Easy No-Bake Lemon Pie Dessert
Ultimate Strawberry Shortcake Tiramisu

Best Lemon Tiramisu Recipe

Author: Kim Lange

Treat yourself to our luscious Lemon Tiramisu, a refreshing and irresistible dessert ideal for lemon lovers. This easy no-bake lemon dessert recipe is perfect for any occasion!

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 25 mins
Chill Time: 2 hrs
Course: Dessert
Servings: 9 Servings
Calories: 487 kcal

Ingredients

LEMON SYRUP

⅔ cup fresh lemon juice (from 4 large lemons)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 Tablespoons grated lemon zest

LADYFINGERS

16-18 ladyfingers

LEMON MASCARPONE CREAM CHEESE FILLING

1 cup heavy whipping cream
¾ cup powdered sugar (add more if you want sweeter)
1 (8-oz.) container mascarpone cheese
1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2 large lemons for the zest)

LEMON PUDDING / CURD FILLING

2 (3.4-oz.) packages lemon instant pudding mix
2 cups whole milk or heavy cream (or 1 cup whole milk and 1 cup heavy whipping cream is what we used)
12 ounces of lemon curd (1 ½ cups) homemade or purchase it already made
A couple drops of yellow food coloring (if you want this more bright yellow, depends on pudding and curd you’re using)

OPTIONAL: TOPPING

1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
Lemon zest from one lemon to zest on top of the whipped cream

Instructions

LEMON SYRUP

Combine fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, and grated lemon zest in a medium-size microwavable bowl with the juiced lemons. Microwave on HIGH for 20 seconds. Whisk until sugar has dissolved. Let the mixture cool down to room temperature.

LEMON MASCARPONE CREAM CHEESE FILLING

Pour the heavy whipping cream into a chilled large mixing bowl and then add the powdered sugar. Whip the cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form and it has turned into light and fluffy whipped cream. Transfer the whipped cream to another bowl.
In the same bowl, add the mascarpone and cream cheese and beat until fluffy. Add in the lemon juice and lemon zest and combine.
Add the whipped cream into the lemon mascarpone mixture and mix together lightly. Set aside.

LEMON PUDDING / CURD FILLING

In a large bowl, add the instant lemon pudding mix with 2 cups of milk (not 4 cups of milk, as suggested on most pudding packages) and whisk together for 2 minutes. Then add the lemon curd and continue mixing until you achieve a thick pudding mixture.

ASSEMBLING THE LEMON TIRAMISU

Dip 8 ladyfingers separately into the cooled lemon juice mixture, quickly. Arrange them in a single layer in an 8-inch square baking dish.
Spread half of the Lemon Mascarpone Cream Cheese Filling evenly over the ladyfingers in the baking dish, smoothing it with a spatula.
Spread half of the Lemon Pudding / Curd Filling evenly over the Lemon Mascarpone Cream Cheese Filling and smooth with a spatula.
Repeat the layering process one more time with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, the remaining mascarpone cream cheese filling, and the remaining pudding/curd filling.
Place the assembled tiramisu in the fridge for at least 2 hours or, for best results, overnight.

OPTIONAL: TOPPING

Before serving, top with more whipped cream and fresh lemon zest if desired. You can also use lemon slices for garnish.

Notes

Substitutions

If you prefer not to whip heavy cream or use powdered sugar, substitute with 4 cups of whipped topping (like Cool Whip). Use 2 cups for the lemon mascarpone cream filling and 2 cups for the topping for a shortcut.
If you don’t have mascarpone, you can substitute it with cream cheese, and vice versa. The flavor profile will shift slightly, but the creamy texture will remain.

Nutrition Information

Keywords

cream cheese, ladyfingers, lemon, lemon curd, mascarpone, pudding, whipped cream