Homemade Limoncello Tiramisu Cups (Printable)

Zesty limoncello, mascarpone cream, and ladyfingers layered for a refreshing chilled dessert.

# Components:

→ Limoncello Syrup

01 - 1/2 cup limoncello liqueur
02 - 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon water
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Mascarpone Cream

05 - 1 cup mascarpone cheese, cold
06 - 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream, cold
07 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Assembly

10 - 20 to 24 ladyfinger biscuits, cut to fit cups
11 - Lemon zest for garnish
12 - White chocolate curls or shavings for garnish, optional

# Steps:

01 - In a small saucepan, combine limoncello, water, granulated sugar, and lemon zest. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
02 - In a large bowl, beat mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and fluffy. Avoid overbeating to maintain a light texture.
03 - Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled limoncello syrup, allowing them to absorb liquid without becoming soggy.
04 - Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each serving cup.
05 - Spoon or pipe a layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
06 - Repeat layering with another round of soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream until cups are filled, finishing with cream on top.
07 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and dessert to set properly.
08 - Just before serving, top each cup with fresh lemon zest and optional white chocolate curls.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No baking required—perfect for warm weather or when you want an impressive dessert without turning on the oven
  • Individual servings make for elegant presentation and easy portion control
  • Bright limoncello flavor offers a refreshing twist on traditional tiramisu
  • Make-ahead friendly—tastes even better after chilling overnight
  • Easily customizable with non-alcoholic options or fruity additions
02 -
  • Use high-quality limoncello for the best flavor—homemade or artisanal brands make a noticeable difference
  • Don't skip the lemon zest in both the syrup and cream; it amplifies the citrus aroma and taste
  • Pipe the mascarpone cream with a star tip for a decorative finish on the top layer
  • These cups can be made up to 24 hours ahead, making them ideal for stress-free entertaining
  • For cleaner layers, cut the ladyfingers to fit your cups precisely before soaking
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