Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 24–30 ladyfinger biscuits
- 1/2 cup lemon curd
- Extra lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the lemon syrup by combining water and granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Let the syrup cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with a mixer until soft peaks form.
- In another bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until light and fully incorporated.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled lemon syrup without soaking.
- Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers.
- Spoon small amounts of lemon curd over the cream layer and lightly spread.
- Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers.
- Spread the remaining mascarpone cream on top and smooth the surface.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set. Garnish with lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor and brightness.
- Do not soak the ladyfingers too long to avoid a soggy texture.
- Allow the dessert to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- You can add berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries between layers.
- This dessert is best served chilled directly from the refrigerator.
- Individual servings can be assembled in jars or dessert glasses for elegant presentation.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
