Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
If you have a soft spot for Italian desserts but crave something fresh and fruity, this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Imagine the creamy, dreamy mascarpone layered with juicy, sweet strawberries and crisp ladyfingers soaked in bright orange juice, all coming together in a no-bake delight that’s as luscious as it is beautifully simple. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, bursting with vibrant flavors and an inviting texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may sound straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in bringing the Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe to life. From the ripe strawberries that add juicy sweetness to the mascarpone’s rich creaminess and the delicate crunch of ladyfingers, every component combines to create a harmonious dessert.
- Fresh strawberries: These juicy, hulled, and sliced fruits provide the bright, natural sweetness and vibrant red color that define the dish.
- Granulated sugar: Divided to sweeten both the strawberries and the cream mixture perfectly without overpowering.
- Lemon juice: A splash of acidity to balance sweetness and help macerate the strawberries, enhancing their natural juices.
- Mascarpone cheese: The rich and creamy base that gives tiramisu its signature indulgent texture.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks for a light and airy contrast to the cheese’s density.
- Vanilla extract: A subtle hint of warmth and depth in the creamy mixture.
- Ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi): Light and crisp, these soak up the juice and hold the layers together beautifully.
- Orange juice or strawberry juice: Used for dipping ladyfingers, infusing each bite with extra fruity flavor.
- Fresh mint leaves and extra strawberries (optional): For garnish, adding a pop of green and an extra layer of freshness.
How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Macerate the Strawberries
Start by mixing the fresh sliced strawberries with half of the sugar and a tablespoon of lemon juice. Letting them sit for about 15 minutes softens the berries and draws out their delicious juices, making the whole tiramisu wonderfully moist and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Mixture
While your strawberries are macerating, beat the heavy whipping cream with the remaining sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Then, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until the mixture is smooth and luxuriously thick. This creamy blend is what gives tiramisu its signature indulgent texture.
Step 3: Dip the Ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into your choice of orange or strawberry juice. Be careful not to soak them too long; they should be moist but still hold their shape to create the perfect textural layers.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Begin by placing a layer of the dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish. Over that, spread half of the mascarpone mixture lovingly. Next, arrange half of the macerated strawberries on top. Repeat with the remaining ladyfingers, cream mixture, and strawberries to build those luscious layers.
Step 5: Chill and Blend the Flavors
Cover your masterpiece and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This resting time lets all the flavors merge into one unforgettable bite, with the texture becoming perfectly silky and tender.
How to Serve Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh mint leaves and whole or sliced strawberries make for a beautiful and inviting garnish. The mint adds a refreshing herbal note that pairs exquisitely with the fruity sweetness and rich creaminess of the tiramisu.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines best on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light espresso or a sparkling rosé. If you want to add a little something extra, a simple mixed berry salad or a scoop of lemon sorbet can complement the flavors without overwhelming them.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this delight in individual glass cups or mason jars for an elegant touch, perfect for parties or romantic dinners. Layer the components with care, leaving the top extra creamy and adorned with strawberry slices for a stunning effect that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe should be refrigerated in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, though the flavors are always best enjoyed within the first 24 hours.
Freezing
While freezing tiramisu is possible, it’s best to do so before assembling if you want to preserve texture. Once assembled, freezing can alter the cream’s consistency. If you freeze leftovers, thaw them slowly in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
This dessert is best served cold and should not be reheated. The cream and fruit layers are designed to be enjoyed chilled, offering their fullest flavor and texture when straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are recommended because they hold their shape better and release more natural juice when macerated. If you must use frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for mascarpone?
You can substitute mascarpone with coconut cream or a blend of vegan cream cheese and coconut milk for a dairy-free version, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the ladyfingers for gluten-free sponge cookies or homemade gluten-free biscuits to keep all the flavor while meeting dietary needs.
How long can I let it chill before serving?
At least 4 hours is needed for the best texture, but overnight in the fridge is ideal. This gives time for the layers to marry and for the ladyfingers to soften perfectly.
What’s the best way to slice and serve tiramisu?
Use a sharp, clean knife and wipe it between slices to keep the layers neat. Serving chilled on dessert plates with a garnish adds to the visual appeal and eating experience.
Final Thoughts
Discovering this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe has been such a joyful journey, and I can’t recommend it enough for anyone who loves a fresh twist on a classic favorite. From the bright strawberries to the luxuriously creamy mascarpone and fragrant orange-soaked ladyfingers, this dessert delivers smiles in every forkful. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s just the kind of sweet surprise your dessert table has been waiting for.
Print
Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and elegant twist on traditional tiramisu, this Strawberry Tiramisu features layers of mascarpone cream, macerated fresh strawberries, and delicate ladyfinger cookies soaked in citrus juice. Perfect for summer gatherings, this no-bake Italian-American dessert combines creamy texture with fruity brightness for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Strawberry Mixture
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (from the 1/2 cup divided)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mascarpone Cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (remaining from the 1/2 cup divided)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Other
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1/2 cup orange juice or strawberry juice
- Fresh mint leaves and extra strawberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Macerate Strawberries: In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of the sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes to release juices and develop flavor.
- Prepare Mascarpone Cream: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth and well combined to create a rich, creamy mixture.
- Soak Ladyfingers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the orange or strawberry juice. Be careful not to soak them; they should be just moistened to maintain texture.
- Assemble First Layer: Arrange a layer of the dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish, ensuring even coverage.
- Add Mascarpone and Strawberries: Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Top this with half of the macerated strawberries, distributing the fruit and their juices.
- Repeat Layers: Create a second layer by repeating the ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and strawberries in the same order.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dessert to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves and additional sliced strawberries if desired for a fresh, decorative touch.
Notes
- You can substitute strawberry puree or a splash of strawberry liqueur for the juice to intensify the berry flavor.
- This dessert is best made a day ahead and refrigerated overnight for the ideal texture and flavor melding.
- Be cautious not to over-soak the ladyfingers in juice to maintain the perfect texture.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste and sweetness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
