Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert

Name: Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/2 cup limoncello liqueur; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; Zest of 1 lemon; Fresh mint leaves; Lemon slices

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Kitchen

I’ve been experimenting with light and refreshing desserts, and this Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert has quickly become one of my favorites. The vibrant lemon flavor combined with the creamy mascarpone is simply irresistible. Each bite feels indulgent yet refreshing, making it the perfect ending to any meal. The elegant presentation always impresses my guests, and I love knowing that such a delightful treat can be prepared in just a few minutes. Trust me, once you try this dessert, you’ll be craving it time and again!

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-16T07:02:36.326Z

When I first tried my hand at mastering desserts with citrus zing, I stumbled upon the beauty of limoncello. Crafting this Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert was an exciting revelation; the combination of luscious mascarpone and zesty limoncello creates an explosion of flavor. One important tip I learned is to chill the mascarpone for a bit before whipping it, as it helps achieve that light and airy texture we all dream of in a perfect dessert.

This dessert isn’t just a feast for your taste buds but also for the eyes! I always serve it in elegant glasses, which adds a touch of sophistication to the table. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and the best part is that I can prepare it in just 20 minutes, allowing me to spend more time with my loved ones while the dessert does the talking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A refreshing citrus twist with the creamy mascarpone
Elegant presentation that impresses every time
Quick to prepare, leaving more time for enjoyment

Mastering the Mascarpone

Choosing high-quality mascarpone cheese is essential for achieving the ideal creamy texture and rich flavor in this dessert. Look for fresh mascarpone with a smooth consistency; avoid any brands that appear grainy or overly thick. The mascarpone should blend effortlessly with the limoncello, creating a luscious base that harmonizes beautifully with the whipped cream.

When mixing the mascarpone with limoncello and sugar, it's important to use a gentle hand. Over-mixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in a less creamy texture. Aim for a silky-smooth consistency, and scrape the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure even blending. This homemade mascarpone mixture is the key to a dessert that feels indulgent yet light.

Whipping the Cream to Perfection

Achieving stiff peaks in the heavy whipping cream is critical for the dessert's overall structure. Begin by chilling your mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for about 15 minutes before whipping. This ensures that the cream remains cold, allowing it to whip up faster and achieve maximum volume. Whip until the peaks are firm but not dry; over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture.

When folding the cream into the mascarpone mixture, use a gentle motion to maintain the fluffiness of the whipped cream. Start by adding a small amount of cream into the mascarpone to lighten it, then gradually fold in the rest. This technique prevents deflating the whipped cream and keeps the final dessert airy and light.

Presentation and Serving Tips

For an elegant presentation, consider layering the mascarpone mixture with crushed cookies or lemon zest in clear serving glasses. This not only adds an aesthetic appeal but also a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess. Popular choices include crushed biscotti or lemon-flavored cookies, which will enhance the overall lemon flavor.

If you're planning to prepare this dessert in advance, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it's best to add the fresh mint leaves and lemon slices just before serving. This ensures they remain vibrant and fresh, providing a pop of color and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy dessert.

Ingredients

For the Dessert

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup limoncello liqueur
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Zest of 1 lemon

For Serving (Optional)

Fresh mint leaves
Lemon slices

Mix these ingredients to create a dreamy dessert!

Instructions

Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, limoncello, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whisk heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.

Add Lemon Zest

Stir in lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Assemble the Dessert

Spoon the mascarpone mixture into serving glasses. You can layer it with crushed cookies if desired.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with mint leaves and lemon slices if you like.

Enjoy your delicious Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert!

Pro Tips

Make sure to taste the mascarpone mixture before serving
you can adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer an alcohol-free version, you can substitute the limoncello with freshly squeezed lemon juice mixed with a touch of lemon zest and sugar to taste. This will maintain the refreshing citrus flavor without the alcohol. Adjust the sugar based on your personal preference for sweetness.

For those with dietary restrictions, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the mascarpone, ensuring that it has a similar creamy texture. Additionally, coconut cream can be an excellent substitute for heavy cream, giving the dessert a unique flavor twist while still maintaining the desired consistency.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Limoncello Mascarpone Dessert can be made up to two days ahead of time, making it a perfect option for entertaining. Store it in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Be sure to reserve any garnishes, such as lemon slices or mint, until you're ready to serve to keep them looking their best.

If you need to transport the dessert, consider assembling it in individual jars or cups. This not only makes serving easier but also helps minimize mess. Just ensure that they are tightly secured for travel, and keep them on ice or in a cooler if the journey is long.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute limoncello with another liqueur?

Yes, you can use any citrus-flavored liqueur for a different twist.

→ How long does this dessert last in the fridge?

It keeps well for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator, covered.

→ Can I use low-fat mascarpone?

Using low-fat mascarpone is possible, but it may alter the creaminess of the dessert.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic version?

Absolutely! Replace limoncello with lemon juice and add a bit of lemon zest.