Lemon Zest Tiramisu

If you’re looking to add a bright, zesty twist to the classic tiramisu, this Lemon Zest Tiramisu recipe is a delightful variation that incorporates the vibrant flavors of lemon. It’s a refreshing dessert that balances the tangy notes of lemon curd with the creamy texture of mascarpone cream, layered with soaked ladyfingers for that perfect tiramisu experience. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this dessert is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Curd:

• 5 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 ¼ cups fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 10 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Syrup:

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 16 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 25 ladyfinger cookies (more or less depending on the dish used)
• Optional: Candied lemon slices for garnishing

Directions

1. Lemon Curd:
   • In a medium saucepan, whisk eggs and sugar until light and glossy. Add lemon juice, zest, and salt; cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens slightly (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Whisk in butter one tablespoon at a time until melted, then continue whisking for another 5-6 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
   • Stir in vanilla, strain through a fine mesh strainer, and chill for 2 hours.
2. Lemon Syrup:
   • Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan and boil until sugar dissolves; cool completely.
3. Mascarpone Cream:
   • Whip cream to soft peaks, add sugar slowly and whip to stiff peaks.
   • Mix in ½ cup lemon curd and mascarpone until smooth, then fold in whipped cream, vanilla, and zest.
4. Assembly:
   • Dip half the ladyfingers in lemon syrup, layer on dish, top with half the cream mixture, then ½ cup lemon curd. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
   • Chill for at least 2 hours. Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Calories: 350 kcal per serving
• Servings: 8

This Lemon Zest Tiramisu is not just a treat for the palate but also a visual delight. The layers of lemony cream and syrup-soaked ladyfingers, topped with candied lemon slices, make it a perfect dessert to bring brightness to your table. Enjoy crafting this beautiful and flavorful dessert that promises a delightful twist to every bite!