Name: Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 5 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 120 g Lemon juice (freshly squeezed + zest from these lemons); 4 Egg yolks; 150 g Granulated sugar; 110 g Unsalted butter (room temperature); 60 g Lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 60 g Water (fresh); 100 g Granulated sugar; 60 g Limoncello; 560 g Mascarpone (cold, high-fat); 350 g Heavy cream (36% fat, very cold); 120 g Powdered sugar (sifted); 80 g Limoncello; 24 pieces Ladyfinger cookies; Chantilly cream (for decoration; use a chantilly cream recipe of choice); Fresh lemon slices (for garnish); Fresh mint or basil leaves (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 52 reviews

If you adore classic tiramisu but crave a fresh, zesty twist, you are in for a treat with this Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe. It takes the beloved creaminess and delicate layers of the traditional Italian dessert and infuses them with vibrant lemon flavors paired with the invigorating sparkle of limoncello. Expect luscious mascarpone cream brightened by homemade lemon curd and tender ladyfingers soaked in a limoncello syrup, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. This recipe is hands-down one of my favorites for warm afternoons or special gatherings when you want to impress with something light yet luxuriously satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two scenes side by side on a white marbled surface. On the left, a metal bowl sits on a black induction cooktop with a digital display. Inside the bowl, a yellow liquid is being stirred by a pink spatula held by a woman's hand. On the right, a white bowl holds a black mesh strainer, into which a yellow liquid is being poured from a metal pot held by a woman's hand. The liquid is bright and smooth, contrasting with the white bowl and the black strainer. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of simple yet crucial ingredients is all it takes to create this spectacular Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe. Each component plays a role in delivering a balance of texture, flavor, and that unmistakable lemony glow that makes the dessert shine.

Lemon juice and zest: Freshly squeezed for brightness and essential zing that defines the dish.
Egg yolks: Provide richness and help create a silky lemon curd.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the curd and syrup, balancing tartness perfectly.
Unsalted butter: Adds smoothness and body to the lemon curd.
Water: Lightens the limoncello syrup, keeping the liquor’s flavor vivid but mellow.
Limoncello: The star ingredient giving a bright, aromatic lemon liqueur taste to the syrup and mascarpone.
Powdered sugar: Helps sweeten and stabilize the mascarpone cream.
Mascarpone cheese: High-fat and cold, it creates the creamy luscious layers so iconic to tiramisu.
Heavy cream (36% fat): Very cold for whipping into light, fluffy softness.
Ladyfinger cookies: The delicate sponge base that soaks up every drop of limoncello syrup.
Chantilly cream: For decorating — adds an elegant, airy touch on top (best to use your favorite recipe).

How to Make Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Curd

Start by zesting your lemons finely, mixing the zest with sugar to release those fragrant oils. Freshly squeeze enough juice—about half a cup—and combine it with egg yolks and sugar in a double boiler. Whisk constantly over simmering water until the mixture thickens into a velvety custard. Strain out any zest bits to keep the texture smooth. Then, gently incorporate softened butter for richness and fold in the zest back in for bursts of lemon flavor. Allow the curd to cool to room temperature; this luscious spread will become the tangy heart of your tiramisu.

Step 2: Make the Limoncello Syrup

In a small saucepan, stir together water, lemon juice, and sugar over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in limoncello for that enchanting citrus-tinged boozy kick. Chill the syrup in the refrigerator until you’re ready to soak the ladyfingers, ensuring the cookies absorb just the right amount of flavor without becoming soggy.

Step 3: Whip the Limoncello Mascarpone Cream

Using very cold mascarpone and heavy cream, begin whipping with powdered sugar until the mixture holds airy peaks. Slowly drizzle in limoncello while continuing to whip, pausing before overwhipping to keep the cream silky and stable. This luscious cream is what makes this tiramisu utterly decadent and light at the same time, carrying a subtle hint of lemon liqueur with every bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Select a suitable container—an 18×24 cm or an 8×8 inch dish works beautifully—and lay out half your ladyfingers soaked just briefly in the chilling limoncello syrup. Spread a portion of lemon curd, then half of the mascarpone cream over the cookies. Repeat with a second layer of soaked ladyfingers, more lemon curd, and the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the top carefully and refrigerate for a minimum of four hours to allow the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften into silky perfection.

How to Serve Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe

The image shows a square piece of layered dessert on a white plate with a brown rim, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has three visible layers: the bottom and middle layers are light brown and textured like soft sponge or biscuit, while the two cream layers between and above them are white and smooth. The top layer is a bright yellow jelly-like layer, shiny and slightly translucent, with a small green leaf garnish placed on one corner. To the left of the dessert on the plate, there is a halved yellow round fruit or jelly. In the background, a glass dish with more of the same dessert is partially visible. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The finishing touches matter here. Spread the reserved lemon curd generously over the set tiramisu’s surface for a glossy, citrusy finish. Pipe fresh Chantilly cream on top, then decorate with thin lemon slices and a sprig of fresh mint or basil leaves. These add not only color and elegance but fresh herbal notes that complement the dessert’s zesty brightness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe shines best on its own as a memorable finale to a meal, but if you want to elevate your dessert table, pair it with a light, fruity sorbet or a selection of fresh berries. A simple espresso or a glass of chilled limoncello on the side will also enhance the flavors wonderfully without overpowering the delicate balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by serving individual portions in clear glass jars or stemmed dessert glasses, layering the components for a stunning visual effect. You could also create mini tiramisus in shot glasses for a party-friendly option. Don’t hesitate to experiment with zest and edible flowers atop for an extra pop that elevates this limoncello classic to a work of edible art.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers of this luxurious Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe should be stored covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for 2 to 3 days, during which the flavors further mellow and integrate.

Freezing

Unlike some desserts, tiramisu does not freeze well due to its delicate mascarpone cream base. Freezing can cause the texture to become grainy or separate upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy this dessert fresh.

Reheating

This tiramisu is best served chilled and should not be reheated. Serving it straight from the fridge ensures you get that perfect combination of creamy, cool, and zesty flavors that define this delightful Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe.

FAQs

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

While homemade lemon curd adds a fresh and vibrant zing, you can use store-bought lemon curd in a pinch. Just make sure it’s high-quality and adjust the sugar accordingly to balance the flavors.

Is it possible to make this recipe alcohol-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the limoncello and replace it with additional lemon juice or a lemon-flavored syrup. The dessert will still taste wonderfully fresh and creamy without the alcoholic kick.

What type of mascarpone cheese should I buy?

Select a high-fat, fresh mascarpone from a reputable brand, ideally kept refrigerated and used cold for the best whipping results and creaminess in your tiramisu.

Can I prepare the tiramisu the day before serving?

Yes, in fact, preparing it a day ahead lets the flavors meld beautifully and the ladyfingers soften just right. Just make sure to cover it tightly and refrigerate until serving.

What if I can’t find ladyfinger cookies?

While ladyfingers are traditional and ideal for their texture, you can substitute with sponge cake or pound cake slices soaked briefly in syrup. Just be mindful of the soaking time to avoid sogginess.

Final Thoughts

This Limoncello Tiramisu Recipe is a sparkling celebration of lemon and cream that will elevate any occasion. Its balance of tangy curd, boozy syrup, and whipped mascarpone layers creates a dessert that feels both light and indulgent. I encourage you to try making it yourself—once you do, it just might become your new signature dessert to share with friends and family. Trust me, you will savor every luscious bite!