Are you looking for a refreshing twist on traditional desserts? Look no further than the citrusy goodness of limoncello! This Italian liqueur is known for its sweet and tangy flavor, making it the perfect addition to a variety of sweet treats. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 limoncello dessert recipes that are sure to brighten up your taste buds.
From classic desserts like tiramisu and cheesecake, to creative twists on panna cotta and parfait, these recipes showcase the versatility of limoncello in both sweet and tangy ways. Whether you’re a fan of bright citrus flavors or prefer a more subtle hint of lemon, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of our top 20 limoncello dessert recipes, featuring everything from bars and cakes to tarts and soufflés. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to unlock a world of citrusy delights with these refreshing limoncello dessert recipes!
Limoncello Tiramisu with Lemon Mascarpone Cream
This refreshing dessert combines the bright citrus flavors of limoncello and lemon mascarpone cream with the classic Italian delight of tiramisu. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a sweet treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp limoncello liqueur
– Lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Fold in limoncello liqueur.
4. To assemble, create a layer of ladyfingers, then spread with the mascarpone cream.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 two more times, finishing with a layer of mascarpone cream on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with lemon zest before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Lemon Limoncello Cheesecake with a Buttery Crust
This tangy and creamy cheesecake is infused with the bright citrus flavor of lemon and the subtle sweetness of limoncello. A buttery crust adds a rich and satisfying texture to this show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by whisking together flour, sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon juice and limoncello.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over the crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Limoncello Panna Cotta with Fresh Berries
Experience the perfect blend of creamy Italian panna cotta and zesty lemony flavor, topped with a burst of fresh berries. This dessert is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 cup limoncello liqueur
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Whipped cream and additional limoncello for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in limoncello liqueur and vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
3. Pour into small individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
4. Just before serving, top with fresh berries. Optional: whip heavy cream and drizzle with additional limoncello for an extra special touch.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Zesty Limoncello Tart with Almond Shortbread Crust
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing tart, featuring a zesty limoncello filling and crumbly almond shortbread crust.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup finely ground almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the filling:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup limoncello liqueur
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by combining flour, confectioners’ sugar, almonds, and salt in a bowl. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. Whisk together lemon juice, sugar, limoncello liqueur, egg yolks, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
5. Pour filling into the baked tart crust and chill before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Limoncello Lemon Bars with a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet lemon bars infused with the zesty flavor of limoncello. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a unique dessert to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a dough forms.
3. Press dough into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and limoncello. Pour over baked crust.
5. Return to oven and bake for an additional 18-20 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-42 minutes
Limoncello-infused Lemon Sorbet
Elevate your lemon sorbet game with a hint of limoncello, the classic Italian liqueur made from citrus peels. This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a burst of sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup limoncello liqueur
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lemon juice and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in limoncello liqueur. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the sorbet is set, scoop into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe doesn’t require cooking.
Limoncello-soaked Lemon Olive Oil Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the warmth of lemon zest, the brightness of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the subtle sweetness of limoncello. Perfect for a sunny afternoon or as a delightful dessert to serve at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup limoncello
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, lemon juice, limoncello, olive oil, and salt until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in lemon zest.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Limoncello Parfait with Whipped Cream and Lemon Curd
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with this refreshing Limoncello Parfait. Layers of whipped cream, lemon curd, and crushed cookies create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup limoncello liqueur
– 1 cup crushed cookies (such as amaretti or biscotti)
– Fresh raspberries or blueberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in vanilla extract.
3. Spoon a layer of whipped cream into a serving glass or parfait dish.
4. Top with a spoonful of lemon curd.
5. Drizzle with limoncello liqueur.
6. Sprinkle crushed cookies over the top.
7. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
8. Garnish with fresh raspberries or blueberries.
9. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Limoncello Lemon Mousse with White Chocolate Shavings
Limoncello Lemon Mousse with White Chocolate Shavings Recipe Summary: Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and rich lemon mousse infused with the sweetness of limoncello, topped with crunchy white chocolate shavings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip heavy cream and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add sugar, butter, and limoncello liqueur; continue whipping until smooth.
3. Fold in grated lemon zest and lemon juice.
4. Spoon mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave (in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval) or over low heat in a double boiler.
6. Allow melted white chocolate to cool slightly before shavings it with a vegetable peeler or sharp knife.
7. Top mousse with white chocolate shavings and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None (preparation time: approximately 20 minutes)
Limoncello Ricotta Cake with a Citrus Glaze
Brighten up your dessert repertoire with this refreshing and moist limoncello-infused cake, topped with a tangy citrus glaze. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup limoncello liqueur
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Zest of 1 lemon
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon limoncello liqueur
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
3. Stir in ricotta cheese, limoncello, melted butter, and lemon zest.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before glazing.
7. Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and limoncello for the glaze.
8. Drizzle glaze over cooled cakes.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Limoncello Lemon Cupcakes with Limoncello Buttercream
Brighten up your day with these refreshing cupcakes that combine the sweetness of lemon and the tanginess of limoncello. These moist and flavorful treats are perfect for a springtime celebration or as a unique dessert to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon limoncello liqueur
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
For the buttercream:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon limoncello liqueur
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and limoncello.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with Limoncello Buttercream.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Limoncello Trifle with Sponge Cake and Fresh Citrus
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing Limoncello trifle, featuring light and airy sponge cake, sweet citrus segments, and a hint of limoncello liqueur.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup limoncello liqueur
– 1 cup cubed sponge cake (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup fresh orange, grapefruit, and lemon segments
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in limoncello liqueur until well combined.
3. Cut sponge cake into small cubes and place half of it in the bottom of a serving dish or trifle bowl.
4. Arrange fresh citrus segments on top of the cake.
5. Spread half of the whipped cream mixture over the citrus.
6. Repeat layers, ending with whipped cream on top.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Limoncello Lemon Crepes with a Sweet Limoncello Drizzle
These delicate crepes filled with a zesty lemon curd and topped with a drizzle of sweet limoncello are the perfect treat for a sunny day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Lemon curd filling (recipe below)
– Sweet limoncello drizzle (recipe below)
Lemon Curd Filling:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Sweet Limoncello Drizzle:
– 2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, water, and melted butter.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in a small amount of batter and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then flip and cook for another minute.
4. Repeat with remaining batter.
5. Fill crepes with lemon curd filling and drizzle with sweet limoncello.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Limoncello Lemon Pudding with Vanilla Bean
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing Limoncello lemon pudding, infused with the warm sweetness of vanilla bean. This creamy treat is perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a burst of citrus sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon limoncello liqueur
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and egg yolks. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add limoncello, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt. Whisk to combine.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla bean.
5. Strain pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Limoncello Lemon Tartlets with a Pistachio Crust
Brighten up your dessert table with these bite-sized tartlets featuring a zesty lemon filling, a crunchy pistachio crust, and a hint of limoncello. Perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 cup pistachios
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 2 cups lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons limoncello
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Freshly grated zest of 1 lemon, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, grind pistachios and confectioners’ sugar until coarsely chopped. Add melted butter and pulse until mixture forms a crumbly dough. Press into tartlet molds or mini muffin tin cups.
3. Bake crust for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
4. Fill cooled crusts with lemon curd, followed by a drizzle of limoncello. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of grated lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Limoncello Lemon Granita with Mint Garnish
This refreshing dessert combines the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of limoncello, perfect for warm weather gatherings. A light and icy treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and limoncello. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or a metal pan with a flat bottom.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency, about 2-3 hours.
5. Once frozen, scrape the granita with a fork to form crystals. Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Limoncello Lemon Soufflé with a Dusting of Sugar
Elevate your dessert game with this light and airy Limoncello Lemon Soufflé, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of lemon and limoncello. Perfect for a special occasion or a delightful treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60ml) limoncello liqueur
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 large egg whites
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with granulated sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, limoncello, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg yolks until thickened. Gradually add sugar and whisk until smooth.
4. Fold in the milk mixture, then gently fold in the beaten egg whites.
5. Pour into prepared soufflé dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Limoncello Lemon Chiffon Pie with Toasted Meringue
This refreshing pie combines the tanginess of lemon with the warmth of limoncello, topped with a toasted meringue that adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup limoncello liqueur
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in melted butter, lemon juice, limoncello, and heavy cream until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into pie crust and bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
5. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
6. Just before serving, toast meringue by broiling for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Limoncello Lemon Shortbread Cookies with a Glaze
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of limoncello are perfect for any occasion. The added glaze gives them an extra layer of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon limoncello liqueur (or substitute with vanilla extract)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Stir in granulated sugar, lemon juice, limoncello liqueur (or vanilla extract), and salt.
4. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing with a mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Limoncello Lemon Icebox Cake with Layers of Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing summer treat that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of cream and the subtle hint of limoncello.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
• Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool completely.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks and lemon juice.
4. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Fold in limoncello liqueur.
5. Spread half the whipped cream over the cooled crust, followed by half the lemon mixture. Repeat layers.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (crust) + chilling time
Summary
Get ready to brighten up your dessert game with these 20 refreshing limoncello recipes! From creamy tiramisu and cheesecake, to tangy panna cotta and sorbet, these citrus-infused treats are sure to delight. With a range of textures and flavors to choose from, you’ll find the perfect way to add a splash of sunshine to your next gathering.
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