Limoncello Tiramisu: the No-Bake Recipe for a Delicious and Creamy Summer Variant of the Italian Classic Dessert

Today, we have decided to bring you to Amalfi, the paradise of lemons, to show you how to make a delightful dessert: Limoncello Tiramisu. This dessert, perfect for any occasion, combines the rich creaminess of traditional tiramisu with the zesty freshness of limoncello and lemons. Perfect for these summer months, the dessert can be served at the end of a lunch or a dinner with friends and family, or even had as a snack, maybe accompanied by a glass of Limoncello or a refreshing glass of iced tea! Making it is incredibly easy too, and requires no-bake: you'll simply have to make the cream, dip the ladyfingers in a mixture of limoncello and lemon juice, and then assemble the dessert before letting it rest in the fridge.

What is Limoncello Tiramisu?

The origins of Limoncello Tiramisù blend the rich culinary traditions of Italy's Amalfi Coast with the beloved classic tiramisù. Limoncello, a sweet lemon liqueur, has been crafted in the Amalfi region for centuries, celebrated for its vibrant citrus flavor. Combining this with tiramisù, a dessert traditionally made with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa, creates a refreshing twist. This fusion highlights the region's famous lemons and offers a delightful balance of creamy richness and zesty brightness, making it a favorite in Italian cuisine and beyond.

Tips to Make the Best Limoncello Tiramisu

• Opt for the freshest Sorrento lemons and high-quality limoncello for authentic flavor. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest can make a significant difference in taste.
• After preparing the cream mixture, ensure it chills in the fridge for a sufficient amount of time. This helps it set and meld the flavors together.
• When dipping the savoiardi, ensure they are soaked just enough to absorb the liquid without becoming soggy. Layer them neatly to create even layers of cream and biscuits.
• Top with freshly grated lemon zest just before serving to enhance the citrus aroma and add a touch of color and freshness.

What Can I Use If I Don't Find Sorrento Lemons?

If you can't find Sorrento lemons, use other fresh, high-quality lemons like Eureka or Lisbon varieties. These lemons also offer a bright, tangy flavor suitable for this recipe.

Is This Recipe Alcoholic?

Yes, this Limoncello Tiramisù recipe is alcoholic due to the inclusion of limoncello. To make it non-alcoholic, substitute the limoncello with a mixture of lemon juice and simple syrup, adjusting to taste. This will maintain the lemon flavor without the alcohol content.

What Can I Substitute the Mascarpone Cheese With?

If you need to substitute mascarpone cheese, you can use cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream to mimic the creamy texture. Combine equal parts cream cheese and heavy cream for a suitable replacement.

Why Is My Tiramisu So Watery?

Limoncello Tiramisù might turn out watery if the savoiardi are over-soaked, if the cream mixture is not chilled properly, or if too much liquid is added. To avoid this, quickly dip the savoiardi, chill the cream mixture adequately, and measure liquids accurately.

Can I Make This in Advance?

Yes, Limoncello Tiramisù can be made in advance. Preparing it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly, enhancing its taste and texture. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can Limoncello Tiramisu Be Frozen?

Limoncello Tiramisù can be frozen, but it's best enjoyed fresh. Freezing may alter the texture, making it less creamy. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

More Tiramisu Variants You Might Want to Try This Summer

Strawberry Limoncello Tiramisu

Lemon Tiramisu

Coconut Tiramisu

No-Bake Strawberry Tiramisu

How to Store Limoncello Tiramisu

Store leftover Limoncello Tiramisù in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.

How to Prepare Limoncello Tiramisu

Add whipping cream to a bowl and start whisking.

Add the powdered sugar and keep mixing until it's fluffy. Then, add the mascarpone cheese.

Then add a generous shot of limoncello.

Mix it with the electric whisk until everything is well combined and then put it to rest in the fridge.

Inside of a soup plate mix water, the limoncello liquer and the squeeze of a whole lemon.

Start assembling your tiramisu: spread a generous layer of cream inside of a baking pan, and dip your savoiardi biscuits for a couple of seconds in the liquid mixture.

Create two layers of tiramisu: a layer of cream, then of dipped savoiardi, cream, dipped savoiardi and, finally, a final layer of cream. Put the tiramisu to rest inside of the fridge for at least 3 hours, so that all the flavors mend together and the layers set.

When you're ready to serve, take the tiramisu out of the fridge and cut it into portions, to decorate individually with a grate of lemon zest and a slice of fresh lemon.

Enjoy!