In just 5 minutes and using 6 basic ingredients, you can make this light and elegant Giada Limoncello Parfait. Spoon the lemon cream into glasses, top with crushed meringue, and it’s ready. Made with mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, limoncello, lemon curd, and meringue cookies.

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Recipe Ingredients

• 1 cup of mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
• 2 cups of heavy cream
• ¼ cup of confectioners’ sugar
• 3 tbsp of limoncello
• 1¼ cups of lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
• 12 mini meringue cookies, crushed

How To Make Giada Limoncello Parfaits

1. Prepare the Cream Mixture: In the bowl of an electric mixer, add 1 cup of room-temperature mascarpone cheese, 2 cups of heavy cream, ¼ cup of confectioners’ sugar, and 3 tbsp of limoncello. Whip the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes or until it forms soft peaks. Remove the bowl from the mixer and set it on the counter for the next step.
2. Fold in the Lemon Curd: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold 1¼ cups of lemon curd into the whipped mascarpone mixture. Combine the curd slowly to avoid deflating the whipped texture until it is evenly mixed.
3. Assemble the Parfaits: Spoon the lemon cream mixture evenly into 4-ounce glasses until they are filled. Ensure the layers are smooth and even to create a nice presentation.
4. Add the Meringue Topping: Top each glass with crushed meringue cookies to add texture and sweetness. Serve immediately, or chill for a refreshing treat before enjoying.

Recipe Tips

• For a lighter twist, use whipped Greek yogurt instead of mascarpone cheese. This substitution creates a tangier flavor and adds a touch of protein to your dessert.
• Add a layer of fresh berries between the lemon cream and meringue for added color and natural sweetness. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries pair beautifully with lemon curd.
• For a non-alcoholic version, replace the limoncello with lemon extract or lemon-flavored syrup. This variation maintains the lemony flavor without any alcohol content.
• Use homemade meringue for extra freshness and crunch. Make a simple meringue by whisking egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form, then bake at low heat until dry.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Check out More Recipes:

• Giada Key Lime Panna Cotta
• Giada Lemon Angel Food Cupcakes
• Giada Lavender Honey Cake