Ingredients
4 large egg yolks for lemon curd base
2/3 cup granulated sugar for lemon curd and syrup
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon) for citrus note
1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice for lemon curd and syrup
A pinch of salt for flavor enhancement
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature, chopped for creaminess in lemon curd
3/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (from 2–3 lemons) for syrup soaking
1 cup water for syrup base
1/2 cup granulated sugar for sweetening lemon syrup
1/4 cup limoncello (optional) for boosting lemon flavor in syrup
8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature for creamy dessert base
1 tablespoon lemon zest for whipped mascarpone
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream for airy texture
1 package ladyfingers (7 oz package, about 24 cookies) for structure and layering
Grated white chocolate for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1-First Step: Prepare Your Ingredients Start by zesting and juicing the lemons, setting aside the zest and juice as needed for each part of the recipe. This mise en place keeps everything organized and makes the process flow smoothly, taking about 5 minutes to complete.
2-Second Step: Make the Lemon Curd In a heat-proof bowl set over simmering water, whisk together 4 large egg yolks, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly for 7-10 minutes until the mixture thickens to a gravy-like consistency, then remove from heat and stir in 6 tablespoons unsalted butter. Cool by covering with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
3-Third Step: Prepare the Lemon Syrup Boil 3/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice, 1 cup water, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a saucepan for 5 minutes, then let it cool completely before optionally adding 1/4 cup limoncello. This step takes about 10 minutes total and ensures the syrup is ready for dipping the ladyfingers.
4-Fourth Step: Whip the Mascarpone Mixture Combine 8 oz mascarpone cheese and 1 tablespoon lemon zest in a bowl, then gradually whip in 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream until medium to stiff peaks form, which should take 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to over-mix to keep it light and fluffy.
5-Final Step: Assemble and Chill Quickly dip the ladyfingers from the 7 oz package (about 24 cookies) in the lemon syrup and line the bottom of an 8Γ8 inch pan. Spread half of the whipped mascarpone mixture over them, add a layer of lemon curd, then repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone. Garnish with grated white chocolate if desired, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. The total time is about 2 hours and 40 minutes, including chilling, for a dessert thatβs ready to serve and impress!
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
π Homemade lemon curd delivers superior flavor and texture but can be swapped with store-bought for convenience.
π° Use high-quality ladyfingers for the best texture and absorption.
βοΈ Prepare ahead and chill to let flavors develop; dessert can be refrigerated for 2-3 days or frozen after setting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 2 hours minimum
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake assembly
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 388
- Sugar: 31 grams
- Sodium: 45 milligrams
- Fat: 26 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 grams
- Trans Fat: 0.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 33 grams
- Fiber: 0.2 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Cholesterol: 141 milligrams
