Lemon Tiramisu Cake

Making a delicious Lemon Tiramisu Cake is like taking a little culinary vacation to Italy with a refreshing twist! This cake is a fun and vibrant spin on the classic tiramisu, swapping out coffee for the bright, zesty flavors of lemon. Imagine the layers of ladyfingers soaked in lemonade, the creamy mascarpone filling, and the sunny lemon curd all coming together to create a dessert that not only looks beautiful but also tastes incredible. Perfect for a warm day or a festive gathering, this cake isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds, or maybe thirds!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Lemon Tiramisu Cake
• Ingredients
• The Art of Preparing the Ladyfingers
• Dip the Ladyfingers in Lemonade
• Building the Layers of Flavor
• Add the First Layer of Lemon Curd
• Prepare the Creamy Filling
• Incorporate the Mascarpone
• Final Layering
• Spread the Cream Mixture
• Add the Second Layer of Ladyfingers
• Top with Remaining Ingredients
• Chill and Serve
• Refrigerate the Cake
• Garnish Before Serving
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage Tips
• FAQs
• Can I make this lemon tiramisu cake ahead of time?
• Can I use a homemade lemon curd?
• What can I use instead of ladyfingers?
• How can I enhance the lemon flavor?
• Is this cake suitable for freezing?
• More Easy Desserts Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

So, whether you’re a newbie in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, Lemon Tiramisu Cake can easily captivate your heart and palate. Let’s jump right into why this recipe works magic, why you’ll love it, and how to whip it up!

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of tangy lemon curd, rich mascarpone cheese, and airy ladyfingers creates layers of flavor and texture. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the sweetness, creating a perfectly balanced dessert. So, it’s light enough for summer but indulgent enough for celebrations. Moreover, it’s incredibly easy to assemble and requires minimal baking, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting a quick yet impressive dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Tiramisu Cake

You’ll adore this Lemon Tiramisu Cake because it’s not only visually appealing but also downright delicious. The combination of zesty lemon and creamy textures is refreshing, perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. It’s also versatile; you can modify it based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry. Plus, the crowd-pleasing nature of this cake makes it a winner for parties and family get-togethers alike.

Ingredients

To make this delightful cake, here’s what you’ll need:

• ¾ cup Simply Lemonade (or your favorite lemonade)
• 12 ounces ladyfingers (2 packs of 7 ounces each)
• 1½ cups lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ⅔ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup instant lemon pudding mix (you won’t need the whole package)
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
• Lemon slices (optional for garnish)
• Strawberries (optional for garnish)
• Fresh mint (optional for garnish)

Gathering these ingredients is easy! This will ensure you have everything ready for your tasty adventure.

The Art of Preparing the Ladyfingers

Dip the Ladyfingers in Lemonade

First, get started by preparing your baking dish. Spray a 9-inch square baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside. Next, pour the lemonade into a small, shallow dish. This is where the magic starts!

Using tongs, dip each ladyfinger into the lemonade, making sure they are fully coated but not overly soggy. You want them moist but still able to hold their shape. Allow any excess lemonade to drip off before arranging a single layer of the dipped ladyfingers in the prepared baking dish.

Building the Layers of Flavor

Add the First Layer of Lemon Curd

Once the ladyfingers are perfectly arranged, it’s time for the lemon curd. Evenly spread about half of the lemon curd over the layer of ladyfingers.

Prepare the Creamy Filling

Now, let’s make the luscious filling! In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream and the zesty lemon zest. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together for about 1-2 minutes. Next, gradually add the powdered sugar and the instant lemon pudding mix while still beating, scraping down the bowl as you go. You should end up with a thick and creamy texture.

Incorporate the Mascarpone

Now, fold in the mascarpone cheese. Make sure it’s smooth and fully combined. This will add richness to your creamy filling and complement the lemon perfectly!

Final Layering

Spread the Cream Mixture

Now, spread half of the prepared creamy mascarpone mixture over the lemon curd.

Add the Second Layer of Ladyfingers

Repeat the dipping process with another layer of ladyfingers in the lemonade, letting the excess drip off. Arrange this second layer atop the creamy filling.

Top with Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to complete the masterpiece! Evenly spread the remaining lemon curd on this second layer of ladyfingers. After that, gently spread the rest of the mascarpone cream mixture on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the Cake

Cover your assembly tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or even overnight if you can wait! This chilling time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.

Garnish Before Serving

Before serving, give your masterpiece a personal touch by garnishing it with fresh lemon slices, sweet strawberries, or sprigs of mint if you like. Cut it into squares, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Tips for Success

• Use heavy cream that is well-chilled for the best whipping results.
• Allow the cake time to set in the refrigerator. This will provide optimal texture and flavor, making it even more enjoyable!

Variations

Looking to switch things up? Try substituting the lemonade with limoncello for an adult twist. You can also use a flavored pudding mix to enhance the cream’s flavor profile even further!

Serving Suggestions

This exquisite cake pairs wonderfully with a refreshing whipped cream topping or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy more of this delightful dessert later on!

FAQs

Can I make this lemon tiramisu cake ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect to make a day in advance, as flavor deepens when chilled overnight.

Can I use a homemade lemon curd?

Absolutely! Homemade lemon curd adds a special touch to your cake.

What can I use instead of ladyfingers?

Savoiardi biscuits or sponge cake can be used as substitutes.

How can I enhance the lemon flavor?

To boost the lemon flavor, add more lemon zest or a splash of lemon extract for that extra zing.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

While we recommend enjoying it fresh, you can freeze the layers separately for up to a month.

This Lemon Tiramisu Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience, blending sweet and tart flavors in a creamy masterpiece that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a gathering with friends or a quiet evening at home, this cake is bound to put a smile on everyone’s face. So grab those ingredients and jump into a journey of delightful flavor that evokes the sunshine of spring and summer with every bite!

More Easy Desserts Recipes:

• Lemon Raspberry Cake
• Lemon Olive Oil Honey Cake
• Lemon Bars
• Fresh Rhubarb Pie

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