Kate Walton
Bright, bold, and beautifully layered, this Italian Lemon Spread Delight is a citrus-lover’s dream come true. Featuring flaky cookie-like layers filled with zesty lemon curd and dusted generously with powdered sugar, each bite offers the perfect balance between sweetness and tang. It’s elegant enough for dinner parties, yet simple enough for a weekend treat with coffee.
The textures will win you over instantly—soft lemon curd oozing between crisp biscuit layers, finished off with a snowy top of sugar. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this dessert is a light and refreshing twist to end any meal with a spark.
What Kind of Lemon Spread Should I Use?
A classic Italian lemon curd or “crema al limone” works best here. Choose one that’s thick, glossy, and rich with fresh lemon flavor. Homemade is always best if you can spare the time, but a high-quality store-bought curd will also shine.
Ingredients for the Italian Lemon Spread Delight
Lemon Curd
The heart of this dessert. Its tangy brightness cuts through the sweetness and gives the dish its signature character.
Biscuit or Shortbread Layers
These provide the crisp, buttery contrast to the creamy lemon filling. Think light, flaky, and able to hold structure.
Powdered Sugar
More than just a garnish—it softens the appearance and adds that perfect final hint of sweetness.
How To Make the Italian Lemon Spread Delight
Step 1: Prepare Your Base
Bake or use pre-made shortbread cookies or biscuits. They should be firm but tender, and completely cooled before assembly.
Step 2: Spoon the Lemon Curd
Generously spoon lemon curd on one biscuit layer. Use the back of the spoon to spread it evenly all the way to the edges.
Step 3: Stack With Care
Place another biscuit layer on top and gently press. Repeat to stack 2-3 layers with curd in between for dramatic effect.
Step 4: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Using a fine sieve or sifter, dust the top layer liberally with powdered sugar until it looks like a snowy cap.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Place in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving to set the curd. Best enjoyed slightly chilled.
How to Serve and Store This Delight
Serve this dessert chilled with a twist of lemon zest on the side or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It’s perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, or as a refreshing summer dessert.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The biscuits may soften slightly over time but will still be delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the layers from sliding?
Chill the dessert for 15-20 minutes after assembling. This helps the lemon curd firm up and hold everything together.
Can I use lemon pie filling instead of lemon curd?
You can, but lemon curd offers a richer, silkier texture and more vibrant flavor.
Are there gluten-free options?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free shortbread or biscuit substitute.
Can I make this ahead?
Definitely. You can assemble the stacks up to a day ahead and refrigerate until serving.
What can I garnish this with?
Fresh mint leaves, lemon zest, or a drizzle of white chocolate work beautifully.
Want More Dessert Ideas with a Citrus Twist?
If you loved this Italian Lemon Spread Delight, try these other mouthwatering favorites:
- Easy Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls for a sweet and tangy pastry bite.
- Lemon Cake if you’re craving a soft and zesty slice.
- Easy Oreo Cheesecake with a punch of creamy richness.
- Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes for lemon lovers who also love a fluffy breakfast.
- Maple Donut Bars with citrus glaze for a warm bakery-style treat.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add berries or stick with classic lemon? Did you experiment with different biscuit types?
I love seeing the creative spins you bring to these recipes. Questions are always welcome—let’s bake brighter together!
Find more fresh dessert ideas at my Pinterest Kitchen By Kate: https://www.pinterest.com/Americanrecipesbyheart/
Italian Lemon Spread Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes 4 triple-stacked desserts
Description
A bright and refreshing treat layered with lemon curd and crisp shortbread biscuits, this Italian Lemon Spread Delight is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Whether for tea time or an after-dinner dessert, its sunny flavors and snowy sugar topping make it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
1 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
12 shortbread cookies or biscuits
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Base: Ensure your shortbread cookies or biscuits are fully cooled and ready.
- Add the Lemon Curd: Spread a generous layer of lemon curd on a cookie.
- Stack the Layers: Add another cookie on top and repeat with lemon curd. Create 2-3 cookie layers.
- Dust with Sugar: Sprinkle powdered sugar on the top layer using a sifter.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to help the curd set.
- Serve: Enjoy chilled with optional lemon zest or mint garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts
