Lemon-Kissed Earl Grey Tiramisu

This quick and easy Earl Grey Tiramisu is a bright and sophisticated twist on a beloved Italian classic! Forget the traditional coffee and cocoa; here, delicate ladyfingers are lovingly soaked in a concentrated Earl Grey tea infusion, creating a unique floral base. These tea-infused biscuits are then layered with an incredibly thick and fluffy lemon mascarpone cream, bursting with fresh lemon zest and juice. For an extra pop of flavor and elegance, consider adding a luscious layer of homemade lemon curd right in the center. While a splash of floral gin can elevate the tea’s aromatics, this dessert is equally delightful and easy to make completely alcohol-free, catering to all preferences.

Prepare to be enchanted by this Earl Grey dessert, truly a creation from the heavens! Our Earl Grey Tiramisu with Lemon Mascarpone Cream glides like butter under your spoon, offering an exquisitely soft texture without ever being soggy. It’s the ideal dessert when you’re craving something sweet but not overpoweringly so, striking a perfect balance between rich creaminess and light, refreshing notes. The intricate dance between the fragrant bergamot of the Earl Grey tea and the vibrant zest of fresh lemons transforms a classic into an unforgettable culinary experience.

The secret to its distinct flavor lies in the ladyfingers. Each one is briefly dipped into a potent, concentrated Earl Grey tea mixture. This infusion process is crucial; a quick dip ensures the ladyfingers absorb just enough liquid to become tender without losing their structural integrity, preventing a watery or mushy result. For those who enjoy an added layer of complexity, a subtle hint of floral gin or elderflower liqueur can be stirred into the tea, enhancing its aromatic profile. However, if you prefer, rest assured that omitting the alcohol entirely will not diminish the dessert’s exceptional taste.

Following the tea-soaked layer, a generous spread of our bright and lightly sweet lemon mascarpone cream awaits. This velvety cream is meticulously prepared with fresh lemon zest and lemon juice, which are carefully incorporated to release their full, aromatic oils, creating a deeply fragrant and refreshingly tangy counterpoint to the floral tea. The richness of the mascarpone is beautifully cut by the citrus, resulting in a cream that is both indulgent and invigorating.

For those eager to elevate this already spectacular dessert, we highly recommend an additional layer of homemade lemon curd. Placed in the center of the tiramisu, this extra component introduces another dimension of brightness and an intense burst of lemon flavor, taking your Earl Grey Tiramisu to an even higher level of gourmet sophistication. Our homemade lemon curd recipe is famously easy, making this decadent addition entirely approachable.

Why This Earl Grey Tiramisu is a Must-Try Dessert

Classic tiramisu holds a special place in my heart, renowned for its rich coffee flavor and creamy texture. However, the versatility of this iconic dessert truly knows no bounds, allowing for endless creative interpretations. This Earl Grey Tiramisu is a testament to that versatility, offering a wonderfully refreshing alternative to the traditional coffee-based version. It’s perfect for tea lovers, citrus enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a unique and elegant dessert experience.

• Aromatic Tea Infusion: The prominent bergamot notes of Earl Grey tea lend a sophisticated floral and citrusy aroma that beautifully complements the lemon.
• Bright Lemon Mascarpone: Our mascarpone cream is light, fluffy, and infused with fresh lemon, providing a zesty contrast to the tea-soaked ladyfingers.
• Effortlessly Elegant: This no-bake dessert requires minimal effort for maximum impact, making it ideal for entertaining or a luxurious weeknight treat.
• Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: Designed to be satisfyingly sweet without being cloying, it leaves a refreshing aftertaste.
• Adaptable: Easily made with or without alcohol, and customizable with an optional layer of lemon curd for an extra gourmet touch.

If you enjoy experimenting with exciting flavor combinations in your desserts, I encourage you to explore other delightful variations like my Cherry Almond Tiramisu or the comforting Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu for more fun and seasonal flavors!

Ingredient Notes for Earl Grey Tiramisu Perfection

Crafting the perfect Earl Grey Tiramisu begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for choosing the best:

• Ladyfingers: These delicate sponge cakes are the backbone of any tiramisu. You can typically find them in the Italian or international foods section of most well-stocked grocery stores. Look for firm, dry ladyfingers that will absorb the tea mixture without falling apart too quickly.
• Earl Grey Tea: The star of the show! I highly recommend using a brand like Twinnings for this recipe. Their Earl Grey has a pronounced, bright bergamot flavor that truly shines through in the finished dessert, making it incredibly aromatic. Use good quality tea bags or loose leaf tea for the best results.
• Gin (Optional): A floral gin, such as Tomcat, can beautifully enhance the bergamot notes of the Earl Grey. If gin isn’t to your taste, elderflower liqueur is another fantastic option, adding a delicate, sweet floral aroma. Alternatively, for a completely alcohol-free dessert, simply omit the gin or liqueur and replace the specified amount with an equal measure of water or additional tea.
• Mascarpone: This Italian cream cheese is essential for the rich, velvety texture of the lemon mascarpone cream. I prefer using Bel Gioioso brand as it tends to be wonderfully thick, contributing to an incredibly fluffy and stable cream. Ensure your mascarpone is cold when you begin to whip it.
• Egg Yolks: We use two cold egg yolks to achieve that classic tiramisu richness and creamy texture. While commercial eggs in the United States are pasteurized and generally safe to consume raw, an alternative cooking method for the yolks is provided in our FAQ section for those who prefer to cook them.
• Granulated Sugar: Used in both the tea soaking mixture and the lemon mascarpone cream, granulated sugar provides the necessary sweetness and helps to balance the tartness of the lemon and the slight bitterness of the tea.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: This ingredient is key to achieving the light and airy fluffiness of the lemon mascarpone cream. Make sure it’s well-chilled before whipping for optimal volume and stability.
• Lemon Zest & Juice: Fresh lemons are non-negotiable here! The zest contains fragrant oils that will infuse the cream with intense lemon flavor, while the juice adds a bright, tangy counterpoint. Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best taste.
• Vanilla Paste or Extract: A touch of vanilla adds depth and warmth to the mascarpone cream, complementing the lemon and tea flavors.

Crafting Your Earl Grey Tiramisu: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping Earl Grey Tiramisu that will impress everyone.

Prepare the Earl Grey Infusion

1. STEP 1: Create the Tea Syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and Earl Grey tea bag(s). Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture is hot. This ensures a well-infused, sweet tea base for the ladyfingers.
2. STEP 2: Cool and Infuse. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the tea mixture to cool completely to room temperature. For optimal chilling and flavor absorption, you can then transfer it to a bowl and refrigerate until thoroughly cold. Once chilled, gently squeeze out the tea bags to extract all their flavor, then discard them. If using, stir in the floral gin or elderflower liqueur at this stage.

Whip the Lemon Mascarpone Cream

1. STEP 3: Activate Lemon Zest. In a medium bowl, combine the lemon zest and granulated sugar. Using your fingertips, vigorously rub the lemon zest into the sugar for a minute or two. This crucial step releases the essential oils from the zest, intensifying the lemon flavor and aroma that will permeate the cream.
2. STEP 4: Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a handheld electric mixer), add the cold mascarpone cheese, the lemon-infused sugar, fresh lemon juice, cold egg yolks, cold heavy cream, and vanilla paste or extract.
3. STEP 5: Whip to Fluffy Perfection. Beat the mixture on high speed for approximately 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cream becomes light, incredibly fluffy, and holds soft peaks. Be careful not to overbeat, as mascarpone can curdle if overworked. The result should be a smooth, airy, and luscious lemon cream.

Tiramisu Assembly

1. STEP 6: Prepare Your Workstation. Gather your chosen loaf pan (an 8×4 inch pan works perfectly), the prepared ladyfingers, the chilled Earl Grey tea mixture, and the luscious lemon mascarpone cream. Set them up in an assembly line fashion to ensure a smooth and efficient layering process.
2. STEP 7: Dip the Ladyfingers. Take one ladyfinger at a time and quickly dip it into the Earl Grey tea mixture, gently rolling it to ensure even coating. It is crucial to dip and roll quickly, typically just for a second or two, to prevent the ladyfinger from becoming overly saturated and mushy. Once dipped, immediately place it in the bottom of your standard loaf pan. Repeat this process, arranging the dipped ladyfingers closely together to form a solid, even layer across the bottom of the pan. You should be able to fit approximately 6-7 ladyfingers per layer, depending on their size and your pan dimensions.
3. STEP 8: First Cream Layer. Once the first layer of tea-soaked ladyfingers is complete, carefully scoop half of the prepared lemon mascarpone cream over them. Gently spread the cream evenly, ensuring it reaches all the way to the sides of the pan and completely covers the ladyfingers.
4. STEP 9: Second Layering. Repeat the process with a second layer of quickly dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining lemon mascarpone cream. Spread the top layer of cream as smoothly and evenly as possible. If desired, you can create decorative swirls with the back of a spoon.
5. STEP 10: Chill to Perfection. Cover the assembled tiramisu tightly with cling wrap, ensuring no air can get in. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but ideally overnight (8-12 hours). This extended chilling period is vital as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the tiramisu to set properly, achieving that firm yet tender texture.
6. STEP 11: Serve and Garnish. Before serving, remove the tiramisu from the refrigerator. For an elegant finish, dust the top generously with powdered sugar using a fine mesh sieve.

Hot tip! For a truly decorative effect, use a stencil (such as a lace pattern or a custom design) when dusting with powdered sugar. This adds an extra touch of sophistication to your presentation.

Storing and Freezing Your Earl Grey Tiramisu

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Earl Grey Tiramisu for days to come. Store any leftover tiramisu covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It will maintain its fresh taste and delightful texture for up to three days. As a general rule, tiramisu, especially varieties made with fresh cream and ladyfingers, should not be frozen. Freezing can alter the delicate texture of the mascarpone cream, causing it to separate, and can also make the ladyfingers too soggy upon thawing. For the best experience, always serve this dessert chilled from the refrigerator.

FAQs & Expert Tips for a Perfect Tiramisu

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to eat raw egg yolks?

In the United States, commercial eggs are pasteurized, which makes them generally safe to consume raw, as the pasteurization process significantly reduces the risk of salmonella. (However, roughly 1 in every 20,000 eggs can still contain salmonella.) If you are concerned or prefer to cook the yolks for complete peace of mind, you can do so by combining the sugar and egg yolks in a heatproof bowl set over a Bain Marie (a pot filled with 1-2 inches of simmering water, with the bowl placed on top, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water). Whisk continuously for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and is hot to the touch. Once cooked, cool the egg yolk mixture completely in the fridge before adding it to the remaining ingredients and whipping for the mascarpone cream.

Can I make this tiramisu ahead of time?

Absolutely! Tiramisu actually benefits greatly from being made ahead. Preparing it the day before you plan to serve it allows all the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully, and ensures the structure has sufficient time to set. The recommended chill time is a minimum of 6 hours, but 8 to 12 hours or even overnight will yield the best results.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

A handheld electric mixer works perfectly fine for whipping the lemon mascarpone cream. It might take a minute or two longer to achieve the desired fluffy consistency, but the results will be just as good. Hand whisking is generally not recommended for this recipe due to the effort required to reach the proper fluffiness and stability of the cream.

Can I use a different pan size?

Yes, you can. While a loaf pan provides distinct layers and is easy to serve, you could also use an 8×8 inch square baking dish for a wider, shallower tiramisu. Adjust the number of ladyfingers accordingly to cover the bottom of your chosen dish. The layering concept remains the same.

How do I ensure my ladyfingers don’t get soggy?

The key is a quick dip. Ladyfingers are very absorbent. Dip each ladyfinger for just a second or two, rolling it once, then immediately remove it and place it in the pan. The residual moisture from the cream and the chill time will further soften them to perfection without making them mushy.

Expert Tips for Tiramisu Success

• Chill Your Ingredients: For the fluffiest mascarpone cream, ensure your mascarpone cheese and heavy whipping cream are thoroughly chilled before you begin whipping. Cold ingredients emulsify better and achieve greater volume.
• Don’t Over-Soak: As mentioned, brevity is key when dipping ladyfingers. They should be just moistened, not saturated.
• The Lemon Zest Rub: Don’t skip the step of rubbing the lemon zest with sugar. This simple technique extracts maximum flavor from the zest, infusing the sugar with potent lemon oils that will make your cream incredibly aromatic.
• Chill Time is Crucial: Patience is a virtue, especially with tiramisu. The minimum 6-hour chilling period allows the flavors to deepen and meld, and the layers to set into a stable, sliceable dessert.
• Presentation Matters: Use a fine-mesh sieve to dust powdered sugar evenly over the top just before serving. For a truly professional touch, place a decorative stencil on top before dusting, then carefully lift it to reveal a beautiful pattern.
• Consider a Lemon Curd Layer: For an extra layer of bright citrus and a delightful texture contrast, incorporate a thin layer of homemade lemon curd over the first cream layer. It adds an incredible depth of flavor.
• Alcohol-Free Option: If omitting alcohol, replace the specified amount of gin or elderflower liqueur with an equal amount of water or freshly brewed Earl Grey tea to maintain the correct liquid consistency for soaking.

More No-Bake Recipes to Explore

If you love the ease and deliciousness of no-bake desserts, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes:

• Cherry Almond Tiramisu
• Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu
• Chocolate Caramel Marshmallow Bars
• Raspberry Brigadeiros

Did you make this recipe? We’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram or Facebook and leave a star rating⭐️ below! For more inspiring ideas, follow me on Pinterest.

Earl Grey Tiramisu with Lemon Mascarpone Cream Recipe

Earl Grey Tiramisu with Lemon Mascarpone Cream

Author: Callan Wenner

This quick and easy Earl Grey Tiramisu offers a delightful and bright twist on the classic Italian dessert. Ladyfingers, soaked in a fragrant Earl Grey tea, are layered with a rich and fluffy lemon mascarpone cream. An optional layer of lemon curd can be added for an intensified citrus flavor. Enjoy it with or without a touch of floral gin!

Prep Time: 30 mins

Chill Time: 6 hrs

Total Time: 6 hrs 30 mins

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: Italian

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 431 kcal

Equipment

• 8×4 inch loaf pan
• Microplane or zester
• Stand mixer with paddle attachment, or handheld mixer
• Fine mesh sieve

Ingredients

Lady Finger Layer

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (25g)
• 1½ cups water
• 3 Earl Grey Tea bags
• 1-2 ounces gin or elderflower liqueur (very floral is best, optional)
• 15-20 lady fingers

Mascarpone Layer

• 8 oz mascarpone (cold)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar (67g)
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 large egg yolks (cold)
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Combine the water, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and tea bags in a small pan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Transfer the tea mixture to a bowl to cool completely. Once cool, squeeze out the tea bags and discard them. Stir in the gin or elderflower liqueur, if using.
3. In a separate bowl, rub together the 2 tablespoons lemon zest and ⅓ cup granulated sugar with your fingertips. This technique enhances the lemon flavor in the cream.
4. Add the cold mascarpone, lemon sugar mixture, fresh lemon juice, cold egg yolks, cold heavy cream, and vanilla paste or extract to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or use a hand mixer). Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Assembly

1. To assemble the tiramisu, quickly dip and roll 6-8 ladyfingers (one at a time) in the cooled tea mixture. Arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of an 8×4 inch loaf pan.
2. Spread half of the prepared mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers, ensuring it covers them completely and reaches the sides of the pan.
3. Repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream. Spread the top layer as evenly as possible.
4. Cover the tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set and for the flavors to fully develop.
5. Before serving, dust the top generously with powdered sugar. For a decorative effect, consider using a patterned stencil.

Notes

• Store the tiramisu covered in the fridge for up to three days. Serve cold.
• If you are not comfortable eating raw egg yolks, please refer to the FAQ section for instructions on how to cook them using a Bain Marie before adding them to the cream mixture.
• The number of ladyfingers needed may vary slightly based on their size and the dimensions of your loaf pan.
• Always dip and roll ladyfingers quickly through the liquid to prevent them from becoming overly soggy.
• To omit the alcohol, prepare the tea syrup as directed and add an additional 2 tablespoons of water when replacing the gin or liqueur.
• For an enhanced flavor experience, add a layer of lemon curd on top of the first layer of ladyfingers and lemon cream during assembly.

Nutritional Information (Estimate per serving)

• Calories: 431 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 183mg
• Sodium: 73mg
• Potassium: 66mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g
• Vitamin A: 1061 IU
• Vitamin C: 5mg
• Calcium: 91mg
• Iron: 1mg

The provided nutritional information is an estimate per serving. Accuracy is not guaranteed.