If you’re dreaming of a twist on a classic Italian dessert, look no further than this irresistible Strawberry Tiramisu. A symphony of juicy strawberries, creamy mascarpone filling, and delicate ladyfingers soaked in vibrant juice, this dish brings all the delight of traditional tiramisu, brightened with a burst of summer sweetness. Effortless yet impressive, it’s the ultimate no-bake crowd-pleaser that promises to be a showstopper at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Tiramisu relies on simple ingredients, each playing a starring role in creating vibrant flavors and dreamy textures. Together, these pantry and fridge staples blend into a celebration of freshness, creaminess, and pure indulgence!
- Fresh strawberries: The heart of this recipe, they offer natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a juicy bite in every layer.
- Granulated sugar: Essential for macerating the strawberries, drawing out their juices and enhancing their flavor.
- Lemon juice: Brings a zesty brightness, balancing the sweetness and elevating all the fruitiness.
- Mascarpone cheese: Rich, silky, and delightfully creamy, this is what makes the filling luxurious and authentic.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it lightens the mascarpone for that signature tiramisu cloudlike texture.
- Powdered sugar: Dissolves perfectly into the cream for a smooth, sweet lift without any grittiness.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla deepens the flavors and adds aromatic warmth to the creamy filling.
- Ladyfinger cookies: These classic Italian biscuits soak up the juice just enough to become tender but not soggy, forming the ideal base and middle layer.
- Orange juice or strawberry juice: Instead of coffee, a fruity soak amplifies the strawberry flavor while keeping the dessert light and refreshing.
- Fresh strawberries and mint leaves for garnish: Extra berries and a sprig of mint add that finishing touch of color and freshness for serving.
How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu
Step 1: Macerate the Strawberries
Start by combining the sliced fresh strawberries with granulated sugar and a splash of lemon juice in a medium bowl. Stir everything together until the strawberry slices glisten, then let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the sugar time to draw out the natural juices, creating a sweet, ruby-red syrup that will infuse every bite of your Strawberry Tiramisu with an irresistible, sun-ripened flavor.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Filling
In a separate large bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until stiff peaks form. It should look billowy and hold its shape when you lift the beaters. In another bowl, gently beat the mascarpone cheese until it’s smooth, then fold in the whipped cream. Take your time with this step – gentle folding keeps everything airy, giving the filling its dreamy, cloudlike texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Ladyfingers
Take your ladyfinger cookies and quickly dip each one into the orange juice (or strawberry juice), making sure both sides are just moistened but not soaked through. The trick is to keep them soft but structurally sound, so your Strawberry Tiramisu slices up beautifully later. You want them to absorb the fruity flavor, but not become mushy.
Step 4: Layer the Dessert
In a 9×9-inch dish, arrange half of the juice-soaked ladyfingers in a single layer to cover the bottom. Gently spread half of the mascarpone and whipped cream mixture over the cookies, then spoon on half of the macerated strawberries (juices included). Repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, the remaining mascarpone mixture, and finally, the rest of the strawberries. Each layer builds flavor, color, and just the right amount of decadence.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover your assembled Strawberry Tiramisu and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the patience! Resting time is crucial—it allows those luscious flavors to marry, and the ladyfingers to turn melt-in-your-mouth tender. Just before serving, garnish the top with extra fresh strawberries and a handful of mint leaves for the ultimate finishing touch.
How to Serve Strawberry Tiramisu
Garnishes
The best way to crown your Strawberry Tiramisu is with vibrant, fresh strawberry slices fanned over the top and a scatter of mint leaves. This not only looks stunning but adds a pop of freshness with every forkful. A dusting of powdered sugar or delicate edible flowers is also a charming touch if you’re feeling fancy!
Side Dishes
Strawberry Tiramisu is divine all by itself, but a few well-chosen sides make it even more special. Consider pairing it with a scoop of lemon or strawberry sorbet for extra chill on hot days, or a platter of other seasonal fresh berries for a berry-lover’s dream. For evening entertaining, a crisp glass of Prosecco or a splash of dessert wine is heavenly alongside those creamy, fruity layers.
Creative Ways to Present
To really wow your guests, try assembling the Strawberry Tiramisu in a clear trifle bowl to show off those gorgeous layers. Individual glass cups or jars also make elegant, grab-and-go desserts for parties or picnics. If you want to get playful, use cookie cutters to craft heart or star shapes from the layered dessert for celebratory occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Strawberry Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator. It will stay delightfully fresh for up to three days, although you might notice the ladyfingers softening more each day. The flavors deepen a bit over time, making those second-day bites extra delicious.
Freezing
While Strawberry Tiramisu can be frozen, the texture may shift slightly once thawed, especially in the creamy layers. If you want to try freezing, wrap individual portions tightly and store them in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying—the strawberries will release some juice, which can make the dessert even more luscious.
Reheating
This is one dessert that’s best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If your tiramisu has taken a slight chill in the freezer, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for Strawberry Tiramisu?
Yes, frozen strawberries can work in a pinch! Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before macerating with the sugar and lemon juice. The flavor and color might be a touch softer, but the result will still be deliciously fruity.
What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese in Strawberry Tiramisu?
If mascarpone isn’t available, full-fat cream cheese is a suitable substitute—though it has a tangier flavor, it will blend well with the whipped cream and vanilla. You could also try a combination of cream cheese and a splash of heavy cream to mimic mascarpone’s ultra-creamy texture.
Can I make Strawberry Tiramisu a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, Strawberry Tiramisu is even better made ahead of time, since it allows the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften perfectly. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
Is there a non-alcoholic alternative for the ladyfinger soak?
Definitely—this recipe calls for orange or strawberry juice, both of which are non-alcoholic and bursting with flavor. If you’d like, you can experiment with other fruit juices like raspberry or pomegranate for a different twist.
Can Strawberry Tiramisu be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge biscuits. All of the other main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dessert wonderfully flexible and inclusive for guests with dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Tiramisu is a sweet celebration of summer’s best flavors, wrapped up in creamy, dreamy Italian tradition. I absolutely love how easy it is to prepare—and even more, how each bite bursts with strawberries and tender, airy layers. Give it a try for your next gathering and watch everyone fall in love at first forkful!
Print
Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of summer with this delectable Strawberry Tiramisu. This no-bake dessert is a delightful twist on the classic Italian tiramisu, featuring layers of velvety mascarpone cream, juicy macerated strawberries, and delicate ladyfinger cookies soaked in citrusy orange juice.
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberry Mixture:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mascarpone Filling:
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Assembly:
- 24 ladyfinger cookies
- 1/2 cup orange juice or strawberry juice
- Fresh strawberries and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Fresh Strawberry Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
- Make the Mascarpone Filling: In a large bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat mascarpone until smooth, then fold in the whipped cream.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Dip ladyfingers in orange juice and layer them in a dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, then top with half of the strawberries. Repeat layering. Chill for at least 4 hours.
Notes
- Consider using a trifle dish for an elegant presentation.
- For an adult twist, use strawberry liqueur instead of orange juice.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
