Limoncello Tiramisu with Candied Lemons
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Recipe Intro From camillechamignon
Get ready for a zesty twist on a classic Italian dessert with this limoncello tiramisu recipe! This recipe is a breeze to whip up, combining the refreshing tang of lemons with the creamy richness of mascarpone. Perfect for a sunny afternoon treat or to impress guests at your next dinner party!
Recipe Description
Limoncello tiramisu is the epitome of a summer dessert with its luscious layers of citrus-infused cream and delicate ladyfinger cookies. The brightness of the lemon pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the mascarpone, creating a dessert that's elegant but not too fussy. Whether served as a light finish to a summer meal or as a decadent pick-me-up any time of year, this dessert never fails to bring joy to the table.
Check out these other tiramisu-inspired desserts:
- Limoncello Tiramisu Ingredients
- Ingredient Notes
- Test Kitchen Notes
- FAQs
- Recipe Card
Limoncello Tiramisu Ingredients
Ingredient Notes
Limoncello: This lemon liqueur adds a burst of citrusy flavor and a hint of sweetness to the tiramisu. If you don't have limoncello on hand, you can substitute it with lemon juice mixed with a small amount of sugar for a similar taste profile.
Try these other recipes for using up leftover limoncello:
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Lemon Tart with Red Currants and Strawberries
Mascarpone: Mascarpone is a creamy and slightly sweet Italian cheese, essential for achieving the rich and velvety texture of the tiramisu's filling. In case you can't find mascarpone, you can try substituting it with a mixture of equal parts cream cheese and heavy cream, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Ladyfinger Cookies: These light and airy sponge cookies are a staple in tiramisu, providing the perfect base for soaking up the flavors of the dessert. If ladyfinger cookies are unavailable, you can use sponge cake or even plain vanilla cookies as substitutes, though the texture of the dessert may differ slightly.
Test Kitchen Notes
Limoncello Selection: When choosing limoncello for this recipe, opt for a high-quality brand with a vibrant lemon flavor. Brands such as Lazzaroni, Luxardo, Pallini, Fabrizia, and Il Tramonto are known for their excellent quality and authentic Italian taste. The quality of the limoncello will greatly impact the overall taste of the tiramisu, so it's worth investing in a reputable brand for the best results.
Mascarpone Texture: Ensure that the mascarpone cheese is at room temperature before incorporating it into the cream mixture. This will make it easier to blend smoothly and achieve a creamy consistency without lumps.
Soaking Time: Be mindful of the soaking time for the ladyfinger cookies. While it's essential to moisten them with the limoncello mixture, avoid soaking them for too long, as they may become overly soggy and lose their texture.
Chilling Duration: For the best results, allow the assembled tiramisu to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set properly, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful final product.
FAQs
What is the best liquor for tiramisu?
The traditional liquor used in tiramisu is marsala wine, which provides a rich flavor that complements the coffee and cocoa powder in the dessert. However, other options like rum, brandy, or coffee liqueur can also be used depending on personal preference.
Can kids eat limoncello tiramisu?
Limoncello tiramisu contains alcohol from the limoncello liqueur, so it's not suitable for children. To make a kid-friendly version, simply omit the limoncello and increase the amount of lemon juice or use lemon extract for flavoring.
What can you substitute for limoncello in tiramisu?
If you don't have limoncello on hand or prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with a mixture of lemon juice and simple syrup. Combine equal parts lemon juice and sugar, then heat until the sugar dissolves to create a lemon syrup that can be used in place of limoncello.
What is the alcohol grade in limoncello?
Limoncello typically has an alcohol content ranging from 25% to 30% by volume, although this can vary slightly between different brands and homemade versions. It's important to note the alcohol content when using limoncello in recipes, especially if serving to individuals who may be sensitive to alcohol or avoiding it altogether.
Recipe Card
Candied Lemons
ingredients
- 3-4 lemons
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
For the Mascarpone Cream
ingredients
- 2 lemons
- 14 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon limoncello
- 20 ladyfinger cookies
To make the candied lemons
Method
Step 1
Slice the 4 lemons thinly, and then bring a pot of water to a boil.
Step 2
Blanch the lemon slices in the boiling water for 1 minute, then drain them.
Step 3
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4
Once boiling, add the lemon slices, and simmer them over low heat for 30-40 minutes until they are candied.
Step 5
Drain the candied lemons and finely chop them, then set aside the syrup.
To make the mascarpone cream
Step 1
Zest the lemons, then mix the zest with sugar.
Step 2
Combine the egg yolks with the sugar-zest mixture in a bowl and whisk until the mixture becomes pale.
Step 3
Add the mascarpone and limoncello to the mixture, and whisk until it becomes smooth.
Step 4
Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture.
To assemble the tiramisu
Step 1
Mix lemon juice, 2 ladles of reserved syrup, and limoncello together for soaking.
Step 2
Dip ladyfinger cookies in the mixture, then line the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan with them. Make sure to not soak the ladyfingers for too long, or you will have soggy tiramisu!
Step 3
Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the cookies evenly.
Step 4
Sprinkle chopped candied lemons over the cream layer.
Step 5
Repeat the layering process with cookies, cream, and candied lemons.
Step 6
Finish by adding a final layer of cookies and cream, and smooth the top.
Step 7
Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 8
Before serving, decorate with lemon slices and zest.
Step 9
Serve slices of limoncello tiramisu chilled, straight from the refrigerator. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a glass of limoncello liqueur.