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Delicious 5-ingredient Lemon Tiramisu dessert on a white plate

5-ingredient Lemon Tiramisu

A simple, make-ahead lemon tiramisu that's perfect for busy families, made with whipped cream, lemon curd, and sponge fingers.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Course Dessert, Sweets
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Essentials

  • 350 ml cold double cream (heavy cream) Base that whips into the lemon-scented cream.
  • 50 g icing sugar For sweetening the whipped cream.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice Adds brightness to the cream.
  • Zest from 1 lemon lemon Use a microplane for the best flavor.
  • 20 g icing sugar For the lemon syrup that soaks the sponge fingers.
  • 60 ml lemon juice Mixed with sugar to make a light lemon syrup.
  • 26 pieces sponge fingers (ladyfingers) The classic tiramisu sponge.
  • 320 g lemon curd Ready-made or homemade, the tangy layer everyone loves.
  • to taste sliced lemons Optional, for garnish.
  • to taste fresh mint Optional, for fragrance and color.

Optional Add-ons

  • to taste fresh berries (blueberries or raspberries) For a colorful topping.
  • to taste icing sugar For a pretty finish.
  • to taste crushed shortbread or digestive biscuits For extra crunch.
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract For a warmer cream flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Chill your mixing bowl and whisk for a few minutes to help cream whip faster.
  • Pour 350 ml cold double cream into the chilled bowl.
  • Add 50 g icing sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and the zest from 1 lemon. Whip until soft peaks form.
  • In a separate shallow bowl, whisk 20 g icing sugar with 60 ml lemon juice to make the lemon syrup.
  • Quickly dip each sponge finger into the lemon syrup and arrange a single layer in the dish.
  • Spread half of the whipped lemon cream over the sponge fingers.
  • Spoon half of the lemon curd over the cream and spread gently to cover.
  • Repeat with the remaining sponge fingers and finish with the remaining whipped cream and lemon curd.
  • Cover the dish with cling film or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Serving

  • Garnish with thin sliced lemons and fresh mint before serving.
  • Slice with a warm, dry knife for clean servings.

Notes

This dessert is forgiving and keeps well in the fridge. It's perfect for busy weeknights and can be made ahead.
Keyword 5-ingredient recipe, easy dessert, kid-friendly dessert, lemon tiramisu, make-ahead dessert