Description
Bright, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor, this Lemon Tiramisu Cake is the ultimate refreshment in dessert form. A heavenly combination of tender lemon cake, zesty lemon curd, espresso soak, and luscious mascarpone cream, it’s a unique twist on the classic Italian treat. This easy recipe is perfect for spring and summer, brunch tables, or when you want to impress without stress. With a balance of sweet and tangy, and a light yet indulgent texture, it’s one of the best breakfast ideas, healthy-ish snack options, and easy dinner party desserts you’ll ever try. If you’re craving food ideas that are elegant but effortless, this one checks every box.
Ingredients
Cake Base:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp lemon zest
½ cup milk
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Soaking Liquid:
½ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
2 tbsp limoncello (optional)
Lemon Curd:
½ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
½ cup sugar
2 eggs
¼ cup unsalted butter
Mascarpone Cream:
8 oz mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
Whipped cream
Lemon slices
Extra lemon zest
Notes
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in vanilla and lemon zest.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk with lemon juice until combined.
- Pour into pan and bake for 25–30 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Brew espresso or strong coffee and mix with limoncello (optional).
- Poke holes in cooled cake and brush or spoon the coffee mixture over evenly.
- For lemon curd: whisk eggs, lemon juice, zest, and sugar over double boiler until thick. Add butter and cool.
- For mascarpone cream: whip cream to soft peaks. In another bowl, mix mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla. Fold in whipped cream.
- Spread lemon curd over cake. Top with mascarpone cream. Pipe extra whipped cream if desired.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert