Easy Lemon Tiramisu

Lemon Tiramisu

Lemon Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the zesty freshness of lemons with the creamy richness of mascarpone. This refreshing take on a traditional favorite is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light finish to a hearty meal. It's an easy dessert that impresses with its layers of flavor and elegance.

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs, separated
• ⅓ cup (75g) granulated sugar
• 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup (240ml) lemon liqueur or limoncello
• 20-24 ladyfinger biscuits
• ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Mascarpone Mix: In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the mascarpone cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until well combined.

2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.

3. Prepare the Egg Whites: In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Carefully fold these into the mascarpone and cream mixture, ensuring a light, airy consistency.

4. Dip the Ladyfingers: Pour the limoncello into a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the liqueur, ensuring they are soaked but not too soggy.

5. Assemble the Tiramisu: In a serving dish, arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers. Spoon half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat with a second layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.

6. Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set properly.

7. Serve: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Nutritious Value and Pairings

Lemon Tiramisu offers a unique balance of flavors and textures. While it is an indulgent dessert, it also provides some nutritional benefits: eggs are a good source of protein, while lemons are rich in vitamin C. However, due to the dessert's richness and sugar content, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

For an ideal pairing, consider serving Lemon Tiramisu with a light, crisp salad before dessert, such as an arugula salad with shaved parmesan and a lemon vinaigrette. For beverages, a glass of Prosecco or a citrus-infused iced tea complements the citrus notes of the tiramisu beautifully. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemonade can enhance the lemony essence and refresh the palate.

With its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation, Lemon Tiramisu is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering, leaving guests both satisfied and intrigued by its refreshing twist.