Nigella Lemon Tiramisu

Name: Nigella Lemon Tiramisu
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: Multiple servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 250 grams mascarpone cheese; 3 medium egg whites; 3 medium egg yolks; 50 grams sugar; Lemon curd; Lady Finger biscuits; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 25 grams sugar for lemon syrup

Discover the delightful twist on a classic dessert with the Nigella Lemon Tiramisu, a refreshing and tangy take that brings together the zestiness of lemon with the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese. This recipe, inspired by Nigella Lawson, is perfect for those looking for a light yet indulgent treat.

Nigella Lemon Tiramisu: A Brief Overview

This variant of the traditional tiramisu swaps the coffee and cocoa elements for lemon, incorporating lemon curd and a special lemon syrup to soak the ladyfingers. The result is a dessert that's both light and luscious, making it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions.

Cultural or Historical Context

Tiramisu, traditionally a layered Italian dessert, is known for its combination of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone cheese mixture. The Nigella Lemon Tiramisu offers a citrusy variation, maintaining the beloved texture and layers of the original while introducing a bright, lemony flavor profile.

Ingredients for the Lemon Tiramisu

Mascarpone Cheese: 250 grams, providing the creamy base.
Egg Whites: 3 medium, whisked until stiff for a fluffy texture.
Egg Yolks: 3 medium, blended with sugar.
Sugar: 50 grams, to sweeten the mixture.
Lemon Curd: Adds the signature lemon flavor.
Lady Finger Biscuits: To create the layers, soaked in lemon syrup.

For the Lemon Syrup

Lemon Juice: 2 teaspoons, for tanginess.
Sugar: 25 grams, boiled with the lemon juice for the syrup.

Preparation Instructions

Start by whisking the egg whites to stiff peaks and set them aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until light and colorless before incorporating the mascarpone cheese.
Gently fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture.
Soak ladyfingers in the prepared lemon syrup and lay them at the bottom of your serving dish.
Layer the mascarpone mix and lemon curd alternately, finishing with a layer of the mascarpone mixture.
Refrigerate, ideally overnight, to set properly.

Storage and Reheating

Store the Lemon Tiramisu in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating. For longer storage, it can be tightly wrapped and frozen for up to a month.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional values can vary, this dessert is rich in calories due to the mascarpone and sugar, with a balance of proteins and carbs from the eggs and ladyfingers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Lemon Tiramisu ahead of time? Yes, it's actually recommended to prepare it ahead to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
Can I substitute mascarpone cheese? Mascarpone is essential for the authentic creamy texture, but in a pinch, a very high-quality cream cheese might be used with adjustments for texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Nigella Lemon Tiramisu is a testament to the versatility of traditional desserts, proving that with a few creative tweaks, a classic can be transformed into a refreshing new favorite. Serve it at your next gathering for a dessert that's sure to impress and refresh.

Original recipe inspiration from Nigella Lawson.

For more detailed steps and additional tips, explore the full recipe at Nigella.com and British Chefs Table. Flouring Kitchen offers additional insights into creating a perfect lemon tiramisu, emphasizing the importance of quality ingredients and proper chilling.