Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert

Name: Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup limoncello; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; Savoiardi (ladyfingers) for layering; Fresh lemon slices for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore this Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert! It’s a stunning combination of creamy mascarpone and the vibrant flavor of limoncello that creates a heavenly treat. Every time I serve it, my guests are captivated by its refreshing taste and elegant presentation. The layers of flavor come from the luscious mascarpone that’s lightened with whipped cream and a hint of tangy lemon, balanced perfectly by the sweetness of the limoncello. It’s a fantastic dessert to elevate any occasion, be it a dinner party or a casual family gathering.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-02-16T02:25:35.833Z

Creating this Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert was an experiment I embarked on after tasting a fabulous version at a friend's wedding. I wanted to replicate that burst of zesty freshness combined with creamy indulgence, and I think I've succeeded! Using high-quality mascarpone and fresh lemons truly makes a difference in the final flavor.

One occasional tip I discovered while making it is to let the dish chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This patience allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a delightful harmony of taste that will truly wow your guests.

Why You'll Love This Dessert
Rich mascarpone combined with zesty limoncello
Light and airy texture that tantalizes your taste buds
A show-stopping dessert that's easy to prepare

The Role of Mascarpone

Mascarpone is the star of this dessert, known for its rich and creamy texture that lends a luxurious mouthfeel. Unlike traditional cream cheese, mascarpone is sweeter and has a buttery nuance which enhances the limoncello's vibrant flavors. When combined with whipped cream, it creates an airy yet indulgent base that holds up well in layers.

Choosing high-quality mascarpone is essential for the best results. Look for brands that specify 'fresh' on the label, as fresher mascarpone will have a more pronounced flavor and smoother texture. You can also experiment with different brands, as the sweetness and creaminess can subtly change the final taste of your dessert.

Perfecting the Layers

When layering, it’s crucial to allow the savoiardi to soak up just the right amount of limoncello mixture. Gently dip each ladyfinger for only a second to prevent them from becoming too soggy, which could lead to a mushy dessert. The right balance ensures each bite retains a slight crumb with delightful creaminess on top.

To add a touch of crunch and more aesthetic appeal, consider sprinkling crushed biscotti or crushed almonds between the layers. This variation not only enhances the texture but introduces a nutty flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.

Storing and Serving Tips

For best results, prepare the Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert a day in advance. This extra refrigeration time allows the flavors to fully meld and enhances the overall taste. If you're short on time, however, a minimum of 3 hours in the fridge will still yield a delicious treat, just be mindful that the flavors may not be as pronounced.

When serving, consider adding a drizzle of citrus-infused honey or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for an elegant finish. These toppings can elevate the visual impact and add layers of flavor to your dessert, making it truly memorable.

Ingredients for Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert

For the Dessert

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup limoncello
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
Savoiardi (ladyfingers) for layering
Fresh lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, limoncello, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.

Layer the Dessert

In a serving dish or individual glasses, start by placing a layer of savoiardi at the bottom. Spoon a layer of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, and repeat the process until the dish is filled, finishing with the mascarpone on top.

Chill the Dessert

Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, allowing it to set and the flavors to meld.

Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, garnish with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Enjoy this delightful dessert chilled!

Pro Tips

Using fresh lemons for juice and zest makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Adjust the limoncello quantity according to your taste preference.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to modify the recipe for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the mascarpone with Greek yogurt. This swap maintains the creamy texture while reducing the fat content, and the tart flavor of the yogurt can enhance the overall brightness of the dessert.

For a non-alcoholic version, replace limoncello with lemon juice combined with a bit of sugar or a lemon-flavored syrup, ensuring to adjust the sweetness to your taste. This will keep the lemony essence intact while making the dessert suitable for all ages.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your whipped cream isn’t holding peaks, it might not be chilled enough or you may have overwhipped it. Aim for soft peaks—this means the cream should hold its shape but still be smooth and glossy. If it’s overwhipped, try folding in a bit more unwhipped cream to salvage the mixture.

Another common pitfall is soggy layers from overly soaked savoiardi. If this happens, the texture will be unpleasantly mushy. To remedy this, be sure to dip the ladyfingers quickly and limit their contact with the liquid. Remember, they should be moist but still hold their form.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert actually tastes better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld.

→ What can I substitute for limoncello?

You can use lemon juice mixed with a little sugar or a different citrus liqueur if desired.

→ How long will this dessert keep?

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered tightly.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! Substitute limoncello with extra lemon juice and a sweetener to taste.