Refreshing, no-bake Lemon Mascarpone Tiramisu Cups – an Italian-inspired summer dessert that’s creamy, citrusy, and irresistibly easy to make.
When the Mediterranean sun kisses the Italian coast, there’s only one kind of dessert that comes to mind—something cool, creamy, and kissed with citrus. That’s exactly what inspired this twist on a timeless Italian favorite: Lemon Mascarpone Tiramisu Cups. It’s a sunny update to the classic espresso tiramisu, trading coffee and cocoa for zesty lemon curd and fresh mascarpone cheese. The result? A light, bright, no-bake dessert that
feels like summer in a spoonful. Each layer in these Lemon Mascarpone Tiramisu Cups delivers the perfect balance—fluffy mascarpone cream, tart lemon syrup, pillowy ladyfingers, and rich lemon curd. Served chilled in elegant glass cups or rustic mason jars, these are a showstopper at any warm-weather gathering.
Whether you’re hosting a breezy garden brunch or just treating yourself to something special, this modern Italian-inspired dessert is sure to become your new favorite. And the best part? There’s no baking involved.
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Mascarpone Tiramisu Cups
No-Bake & Quick to Assemble: Ideal for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Light and Tangy: The lemon adds a refreshing twist that keeps each bite bright and balanced.
Perfectly Portioned: Served in cups or jars, these are as cute as they are practical for entertaining.
Italian-Inspired Elegance: A modern homage to the classic tiramisu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need for 4 servings of this heavenly lemon mascarpone tiramisu:
For the Lemon Syrup:
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp Limoncello (optional for a grown-up twist)
For the Mascarpone Cream:
1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
For the Layers:
12–14 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
1/2 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh berries and mint for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Lemon Syrup
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in Limoncello if using. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Cream
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone with powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Fold in the whipped cream gently until fully combined and fluffy.
Step 3: Layer the Dessert
Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled lemon syrup—don’t soak or they’ll get mushy. Line the bottom of each cup or jar with broken pieces of soaked ladyfingers.
Add a spoonful of lemon curd, followed by a layer of mascarpone cream. Repeat the layers one more time: soaked ladyfingers, lemon curd, then a final layer of mascarpone cream.
Step 4: Chill and Garnish
Cover the cups and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor). Before serving, top with fresh berries, a sprig of mint, or extra lemon zest.
Tips for the Best Lemon Tiramisu
Use high-quality mascarpone for a silky texture.
Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers—quick dips keep them firm yet flavorful.
Let it chill for at least two hours so the flavors meld and the texture firms up.
Try homemade lemon curd for an extra touch of luxury. Check out this easy lemon curd recipe
Variations to Try
Berry Layered Tiramisu: Add macerated strawberries or blueberries between the layers.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cake.
Kid-Friendly: Skip the Limoncello and swap for more lemon juice or orange juice.
Frozen Lemon Tiramisu Cups: Freeze for 1–2 hours for a semifreddo-style treat.
Pair It With…
A crisp Prosecco or sparkling lemonade
Fresh caprese salad to start a summer menu
Light grilled fish or pasta primavera
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead?
Absolutely! They’re even better the next day once the flavors have melded.
Can I substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?
You can, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly—cream cheese is tangier and firmer.
What if I don’t have lemon curd?
You can use a mix of lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar blended into the mascarpone layer for a lighter alternative.
Personal Touch: From Nonna’s Kitchen to Yours
This dessert reminds me of childhood summers spent barefoot in Nonna’s garden, sneaking bites of her tiramisu before dinner. While hers was rich with espresso and cocoa, this lemony version is lighter, brighter, and just as full of love. I imagine her smiling at this modern twist—and reaching for a spoon.
External Links for Inspiration
Homemade Lemon Curd Recipe
Learn how to make silky and tangy lemon curd with this detailed guide from Sally’s Baking Addiction.Classic Tiramisu Recipe
Explore the traditional method of making tiramisu with this comprehensive recipe from The Spruce Eats.72 No-Bake Desserts for When You Just Can’t With Your Oven
Discover a variety of no-bake dessert ideas perfect for summer from Delish.Savoiardi Cookies (Italian Ladyfingers) Recipe
Learn how to make authentic Italian ladyfingers with this recipe from Marcellina In Cucina.
Final Thoughts
These Lemon Mascarpone Tiramisu Cups are sunshine in a spoon—sweet, tangy, and irresistibly creamy. Whether you’re serving them at your next summer gathering or indulging in a solo treat, they’re sure to impress.
Try them out and let me know how they turned out in the comments! Did you add your own twist? 🍋💛