Lemon Tiramisu

**Ingredients:**

*For the Lemon Syrup:*
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup sugar
– Zest of 1 lemon

*For the Mascarpone Cream:*
– 1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese, room temperature
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream

*For the Lemon Curd:*
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
– Zest of 2 lemons
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

*For Assembly:*
– 24 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
– Cocoa powder, for dusting (optional)
– Lemon zest, for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Lemon Syrup:**
– In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, water, sugar, and lemon zest.
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the sugar is fully dissolved.
– Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

2. **Make the Mascarpone Cream:**
– In a large bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
– In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
– Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined and smooth.

3. **Prepare the Lemon Curd:**
– In a small saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs over medium heat.
– Add the butter, a few cubes at a time, and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
– Remove from heat and strain the lemon curd through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps. Let it cool.

4. **Assemble the Lemon Tiramisu:**
– Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled lemon syrup and arrange them in a single layer in a baking dish or individual serving dishes.
– Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
– Drizzle or spread a layer of lemon curd over the mascarpone cream.
– Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and lemon curd.
– Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

5. **Serve:**
– Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder (optional) or garnish with additional lemon zest.
– Slice into squares or serve individually and enjoy the refreshing lemon flavors!

This Lemon Tiramisu is a delightful and light dessert that combines the tanginess of lemons with the richness of mascarpone, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy!