Lemon Tiramisu – Light, Zesty, and Elegantly Refreshing

This Lemon Tiramisu is a bright and refreshing twist on the beloved Italian classic. Layers of delicate ladyfingers are soaked in a lemony syrup, then layered with a creamy, light mascarpone filling for a dessert that’s luscious yet airy. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, it’s a beautiful way to end any meal on a fresh, citrusy note.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Zesty and Bright – Fresh lemon juice and zest bring a vibrant flavor to every bite.
Light and Creamy – Whipped filling keeps the dessert airy and satisfying.
No-Bake Elegance – A make-ahead, fuss-free recipe that impresses every time.
Perfect for Warm Weather – Cool, citrus-forward flavors make it ideal for sunny days.

Ingredients

For the syrup:

  • ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp honey or light sweetener
  • ½ cup water
  • Zest of 1 lemon

For the filling:

  • 8 oz light mascarpone or low-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • ⅓ cup powdered sugar (or sweetener of choice)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For assembly:

  • 24 ladyfinger biscuits
  • Lemon zest and thin lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Lemon Syrup
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice, honey, water, and zest. Stir and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and cool completely.

2. Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, beat mascarpone until smooth. Add yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Beat until creamy and light.

3. Assemble the Tiramisu
Quickly dip each ladyfinger in the cooled lemon syrup (don’t oversoak). Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in an 8×8-inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining filling. Smooth the top.

4. Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Garnish with extra lemon zest and thin lemon slices just before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 190
Protein: 6g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Sugar: 12g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Oversoak the Ladyfingers – A quick dip is all you need to keep them light and fluffy.
  • Chill Well – The flavors and texture improve with a long chill.
  • Make it Beautiful – Garnish generously for an elegant presentation.

Why This Recipe Works

The tangy lemon syrup and creamy mascarpone filling create a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. By using yogurt and light mascarpone, the dessert stays creamy without being heavy, making it a refreshing choice that still feels indulgent.

This Lemon Tiramisu brings all the elegance of the classic dessert with a fresh, citrusy twist. Light, creamy, and zesty, it’s a beautiful make-ahead dessert that brightens any table and delights every guest.

Lemon Tiramisu – Light, Zesty, and Elegantly Refreshing

Servings

8

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time
Calories

190

kcal

A bright, zesty lemon syrup-soaked ladyfinger dessert layered with creamy mascarpone and yogurt filling. This no-bake, make-ahead treat is as refreshing as it is elegant — perfect for spring and summer occasions.

Ingredients

  • For the syrup:

  • ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 2 tbsp honey or light sweetener

  • ½ cup water

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • For the filling:

  • 8 oz light mascarpone or low-fat cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

  • ⅓ cup powdered sugar (or sweetener of choice)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • For assembly:

  • 24 ladyfinger biscuits

  • Lemon zest and thin lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

  • Make the Lemon Syrup
    In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice, honey, water, and zest. Stir and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and cool completely.
  • Prepare the Filling
    In a medium bowl, beat mascarpone until smooth. Add yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Beat until creamy and light.
  • Assemble the Tiramisu
    Quickly dip each ladyfinger in the cooled lemon syrup (don’t oversoak). Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in an 8×8-inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining filling. Smooth the top.
  • Chill and Serve
    Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Garnish with extra lemon zest and thin lemon slices just before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t Oversoak the Ladyfingers – A quick dip is all you need to keep them light and fluffy.
    Chill Well – The flavors and texture improve with a long chill.
    Make it Beautiful – Garnish generously for an elegant presentation.

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