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Perfect Homemade Limoncello Tiramisu Cups Recipe Easy Lemon Mascarpone Dessert

limoncello tiramisu cups - featured image

A light and refreshing twist on classic tiramisu featuring limoncello-soaked ladyfingers and a tangy lemon mascarpone cream, perfect for summer evenings or any citrus dessert craving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) mascarpone cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • Zest of 2 medium lemons
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) limoncello
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar
  • About 24 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
  • Fresh lemon slices or candied lemon peel (optional, for garnish)
  • Grated white chocolate or lemon zest (optional decoration)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Limoncello Soak: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup limoncello, 1/2 cup water, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Warm gently over low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature (about 10 minutes). Do not boil.
  2. Make the Lemon Mascarpone Cream: In a large bowl, add softened mascarpone. In a separate chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form (3-4 minutes). Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to mascarpone, mixing gently. Fold in whipped cream carefully to keep mixture light and airy (about 10 minutes).
  3. Assemble the Cups: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled limoncello soak for 1-2 seconds on each side to absorb flavor without becoming soggy. Break into pieces if needed to fit serving cups. Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each cup (2-3 ladyfingers per cup).
  4. Add the Lemon Mascarpone Layer: Spoon a generous layer of lemon mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smoothing gently. Repeat layers if cups are tall, finishing with mascarpone on top (assembly time 10-15 minutes).
  5. Chill and Garnish: Refrigerate assembled cups for at least 4 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and cream set. Before serving, garnish with fresh lemon slices, candied lemon peel, or grated white chocolate.

Notes

Keep all ingredients cold before whipping cream for best texture. Do not over-soak ladyfingers to avoid mushiness. Fold whipped cream gently into mascarpone to maintain lightness. Use fresh lemons for best flavor. For dairy-free version, substitute mascarpone and cream with coconut cream and non-dairy whipping cream. For gluten-free, use gluten-free ladyfingers or almond flour cookies. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: limoncello tiramisu, lemon mascarpone dessert, easy tiramisu cups, summer dessert, Italian dessert, lemon tiramisu, no-bake dessert