Hamdi Saidani Rachael Ray Limoncello Dessert is made with creamy mascarpone, lemon zest, and sweet limoncello liqueur. It serves 6 and takes about 20 minutes to prepare. It’s light, fresh, and full of citrus flavor—perfect for warm weather or easy entertaining.
💛 Why You’ll Love This Rachael Ray Limoncello Dessert:
- Light and creamy: It’s rich but not heavy—perfect after a big meal.
- Quick and easy: Just mix and chill—no baking needed.
- Citrusy and refreshing: Limoncello and lemon zest give it a bold, bright flavor.
- Elegant look: Serve in glasses for a fancy yet simple dessert.
- Customizable: Add layers, toppings, or fresh fruit as you like.
- Perfect for summer: Cool, creamy, and no oven required.
- Great for gatherings: Easy to double or make in small cups for a crowd.
🍋 Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp limoncello liqueur
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Ladyfingers or sponge cake (optional for layering)
- Fresh berries or mint (for garnish)
🍦 Directions:
- Whip the cream: In a cold bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- Mix the mascarpone base: In another bowl, whisk together mascarpone, powdered sugar, limoncello, lemon zest, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined and fluffy.
- Layer or spoon: Spoon into serving glasses or layer with ladyfingers or cake for a trifle-style dessert.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Garnish with berries or mint before serving.
✅ Recipe Tips:
- Use cold cream and bowl: This helps the cream whip faster and stay fluffy.
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold the whipped cream to keep the dessert light and airy.
- Adjust limoncello: Use more or less depending on how strong you want the flavor.
- No alcohol version: Swap limoncello with lemon juice and a bit of extra sugar for a family-friendly option.
- Make ahead: This dessert holds up well in the fridge and is great for prepping in advance.
- Add texture: Layer with crushed cookies, graham crackers, or cake for crunch and extra flavor.
🥮 What To Serve With Limoncello Dessert?
Serve Limoncello Dessert with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. It also pairs beautifully with almond cookies, lemon shortbread, or a glass of espresso. For a classy finish, garnish with mint leaves or a thin lemon slice on top.
🧊 How To Store Leftovers Limoncello Dessert?
- In the fridge: Cover with plastic wrap or store in airtight containers. Keep leftovers limoncello dessert chilled for up to 3 days for the best taste and texture.
- In the freezer: Freeze in portions of leftovers limoncello dessert for up to 1 week. Let it thaw slightly in the fridge before serving for a frozen mousse-like texture.
❓ FAQs
What is a limoncello dessert?
A limoncello dessert is a no-bake creamy treat made with whipped cream, mascarpone cheese, lemon zest, and limoncello liqueur. It’s chilled and served in cups or glasses, often layered with sponge cake or cookies.
What does limoncello taste like in a dessert?
Limoncello adds a bright, tangy lemon flavor with a sweet, smooth finish. In a dessert, it blends beautifully with creamy ingredients like mascarpone or whipped cream, giving a fresh lemony taste that isn’t too sour or sharp.
Can I make limoncello dessert without alcohol?
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version by replacing the limoncello with fresh lemon juice and a bit of lemon zest. You may need to add a small amount of sugar or honey to balance the tartness.
What type of cheese is used in limoncello dessert?
Mascarpone cheese is commonly used in limoncello dessert. It’s an Italian soft cheese with a rich and creamy texture, similar to cream cheese but milder in taste. It blends smoothly with whipped cream and helps create a light, mousse-like consistency.
How long does limoncello dessert take to set?
Limoncello dessert usually needs at least 1 hour in the fridge to chill and firm up. For the best results, letting it set for 2–3 hours allows the flavors to fully develop and the texture to become creamy and stable.
What kind of limoncello should I use?
Use good-quality limoncello for the best flavor. Homemade or store-bought versions with a strong lemon taste and smooth finish work well. Choose one that you enjoy drinking because its flavor will come through in the dessert.
Can I make limoncello dessert ahead of time?
Yes, limoncello dessert is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day before your event, cover it well, and store it in the fridge. The texture holds up beautifully, and the flavor deepens slightly as it chills.
Can I add lemon curd to limoncello dessert?
Yes, adding a swirl of lemon curd to the dessert adds even more lemon flavor and a slightly tangy twist. You can mix it into the mascarpone cream or use it as a topping or hidden middle layer for a pop of brightness.
📊 Limoncello Dessert Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 16g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
