Italian Limoncello Lemon Dessert

Name: Italian Limoncello Lemon Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 200g digestive biscuits, crushed; 100g unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons sugar; 400g cream cheese, softened; 200ml heavy cream; 150g powdered sugar; 150ml limoncello; Zest of 2 lemons; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Lemon slices; Fresh mint leaves

Highlighted under: Delightful Bakes

I absolutely adore making this Italian Limoncello Lemon Dessert! The combination of zesty lemon and sweet limoncello creates an invigorating flavor that brightens any occasion. Each bite is a delightful reminder of sunny Italian summers. I love how simple yet impressive this recipe is, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and formal events. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to finish a meal with a touch of elegance and a burst of citrus. Let’s dive into the steps and make this refreshing treat together!

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:33:35.863Z

Life has taught me that a touch of sweetness can elevate any gathering, and this dessert is a perfect example. I experimented with a traditional Italian recipe that incorporates limoncello, and the result is nothing short of spectacular. The creamy layers combined with the citrusy punch leave my guests eager for more!

What truly makes this dessert shine is the balance of flavors. I’ve found that chilling it well before serving enhances the taste, allowing the limoncello to infuse beautifully into the layers. Each forkful is like a mini vacation to Italy, making it a must-try for any lemon lover!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing lemon flavor infused with limoncello
Creamy texture balanced with a crumbly base
Impressive presentation that dazzles at any gathering

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the Italian Limoncello Lemon Dessert. The digestives for the base provide a sweet and slightly buttery foundation, while using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in the recipe. Opt for a high-quality limoncello, as the lemon liqueur greatly influences the dessert's flavor profile. The sweetness from the powdered sugar balances the tartness of the fresh lemon juice and zest, ensuring that every bite is vibrant and refreshing.

The use of cream cheese as the primary filling ingredient contributes to the dessert's creamy texture. It’s essential to soften the cream cheese thoroughly—this means allowing it to sit at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes beforehand. This step will help ensure that no lumps remain, resulting in a smooth and creamy filling. Additionally, incorporating heavy cream gives the dessert an airy quality. Whipping it until it reaches soft peaks will provide that fluffy softness that contrasts beautifully with the crisp biscuit base.

Assembly Tips

When pressing the biscuit mixture into the springform pan, make sure to use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat surface to pack it down firmly. This will create a sturdy base that holds together once firm. If you find your mixture too crumbly, a touch more melted butter can help bind it together more effectively. After assembling, refrigerating it for a minimum of four hours, or ideally overnight, allows the dessert to set perfectly, making cutting easier and ensuring a well-defined layer when served.

As you pour the filling over the established base, take care to smooth it out evenly. A spatula works great for this—gliding it over the surface will help level the filling. Visual cues are important: you want the top to look glossy and well-blended without any lumps. Depending on your fridge, you may want to check the consistency after four hours. If it's well set, you can proceed to decoration or let it sit for a bit longer to ensure the perfect slice.

Ingredients

For the Base

200g digestive biscuits, crushed
100g unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons sugar

For the Filling

400g cream cheese, softened
200ml heavy cream
150g powdered sugar
150ml limoncello
Zest of 2 lemons
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration

Lemon slices
Fresh mint leaves

Note

Make sure to use fresh lemons for the best flavor in this dessert.

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed digestive biscuits, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until thoroughly combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even layer. Place it in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

Make the Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing well. Then, incorporate the heavy cream, limoncello, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is creamy and well combined.

Assemble the Dessert

Once the base has set, pour the filling over the biscuit layer. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up completely.

Serve

Just before serving, garnish the dessert with lemon slices and mint leaves for a refreshing touch. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice, and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Dessert!

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of sparkling wine.

Pro Tips

If you want to add more citrus flavor, consider incorporating a little more lemon juice or zest into the filling. Also, for a fancier twist, you can top it with whipped cream before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of elegance at serving time, consider pairing this dessert with a lemon sorbet or a dollop of whipped cream. The coolness of the sorbet complements the creamy filling, while a slight sweetness from the whipped cream enhances the lemon flavors. I often add a drizzle of limoncello on top to elevate the citrus notes even further. Another fantastic idea is to serve the dessert alongside fresh berries, which also add a refreshing contrast.

If you're catering to various dietary needs, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and ensure the biscuits are gluten-free. Using gluten-free digestive biscuits will retain the same texture while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities. This way, everyone can indulge and enjoy the delightful lemony flavors!

Storage and Make-Ahead

This Italian Limoncello Lemon Dessert is a marvelous make-ahead treat! It can be prepared up to a few days in advance, making it an ideal option for gatherings or meal preparation. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and it will remain fresh for about four to five days. However, it's best enjoyed within the first few days to appreciate the full brightness of the flavors.

If you have leftovers, storing individual slices in airtight containers is a great way to keep it fresh. Just remember that while the texture remains wonderful, the decoration might wilt after a day. You can always freshen it up with new mint leaves and lemon slices before serving again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! It's best to make it a day in advance to allow it to set properly.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! You can substitute limoncello with lemon juice mixed with soda for a refreshing non-alcoholic dessert.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use another type of biscuit for the base?

Yes, you can use any similar biscuit or cookie that you'd like for the base, such as graham crackers.