Lemon Tiramisu Recipe: The Best Easy Citrus Twist on a Classic Tiramisu Dessert

I don’t know about you, but when spring rolls around, I start craving beautiful lemon desserts that are light, fresh, and just the right amount of sweet. And since I’m a mom of three, I also need my citrus dessert recipes to be easy enough to throw together in between school drop-offs, snack requests, and endless laundry.

That’s where this Lemon Tiramisu Recipe comes in. It’s a dreamy, no-bake dessert with layers of fluffy mascarpone cream, tangy lemon syrup, and those delicate ladyfingers that soak up all the flavor. Think of it as a citrus tiramisu—a fun, citrus twist on the classic Italian dessert. If you love lime recipes, limoncello dessert recipes, or just anything with that sweet-tart lemony goodness, you’re in for a treat.

Now, if you’ve never made tiramisu before, don’t worry. This is an easy tiramisu recipe that anyone can pull off—no baking, no complicated steps, just simple, delicious layers of citrusy goodness. Plus, it’s one of those make-ahead desserts that actually tastes better the next day, which is perfect when you’ve got a busy schedule (or just don’t feel like rushing to make dessert at the last minute).

Some people call it Limoncello Tiramisu, others might say Lemoncello Tiramisu Trifle, but no matter what you name it, this real lemon dessert is an absolute winner. It’s perfect for springtime, summer gatherings, or honestly, just when you get those sweet cravings for something light and refreshing.

So, if you’ve been looking for fruit dessert recipes, lemon dessert recipes, or even a twist on a classic tiramisu recipe, this one’s for you. Grab some fresh lemons, a little mascarpone, and let’s make this Lemon Curd Tiramisu together. Trust me, it’s the kind of small lemon dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things pretty simple. Here’s what you need:

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–5 lemons)
• Zest of 2 lemons
• ¾ cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temp so it’s easier to mix)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• 24–30 ladyfingers (get the crunchy ones, not the soft ones)
• Powdered sugar & extra lemon zest (for garnish)

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Step 1: Make the Lemon Syrup

This is what gives the ladyfingers that amazing lemon flavor.

• In a small saucepan, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and water.
• Heat it over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
• Once it starts to simmer, take it off the heat and let it cool completely.

That’s it. Simple, right? Now, let’s move on to the creamy part.

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Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream

This part is where the magic happens. It’s light, fluffy, and has just the right amount of lemony goodness.

• In a large bowl, mix together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth.
• In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until you get soft peaks. (This just means when you lift your mixer, the cream holds its shape but isn’t too stiff.)
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Don’t just stir it like crazy—folding helps keep it fluffy.

At this point, I usually have one of my kids stealing a spoonful because “it looks like frosting.” And honestly? They’re not wrong.

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Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu

Now comes the fun part—layering everything together.

• Take each ladyfinger and quickly dip it into the cooled lemon syrup. Be fast! If you soak them too long, they’ll turn into mush.
• Line them up in a dish to form the first layer.
• Spread half of the mascarpone cream on top.
• Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers.
• Top with the rest of the mascarpone cream and smooth it out.

Boom. You’re almost done.

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Step 4: Chill & Serve

Now, this is the hardest part—waiting.

• Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Overnight is even better. This lets all the flavors meld together and makes it even creamier.
• When you’re ready to serve, dust the top with powdered sugar and sprinkle a little extra lemon zest for that fancy finishing touch.

FAQs About Lemon Tiramisu

Lemon Tiramisu Recipe

And that’s it—your Lemon Tiramisu Recipe is ready to steal the show. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a spring brunch, or just because those sweet cravings hit, this dreamy dessert is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s got that perfect citrus twist—light, creamy, and packed with fresh lemon flavor, making it one of the best real lemon desserts out there.

Honestly, I love a good tiramisu recipe, but sometimes the classic version feels a little too rich. This citrus tiramisu gives all the indulgence with a refreshing, zesty kick. Plus, it’s one of those make-ahead desserts that actually saves me time—because let’s be real, as a mom of three, I’ll take any shortcut I can get.

So if you’ve been looking for beautiful lemon desserts, small lemon desserts, or even a fun take on a classic, this is your sign to try it. Whether you call it Lemoncello Tirimasu, Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe, or just good ol’ Lemon Tirimasu, it’s a winner. And if you wanna mix it up, add a layer of lemon curd tiramisu-style or even try a Lemoncello Tiramisu Trifle version in cute little cups.

However you make it, I promise—this will be your new go-to for easy citrus dessert recipes. So go grab some fresh lemons, whip up this spring lemon dessert, and let me know how it turns out. Happy baking (or, well, not baking, because no oven required)!