If you’re searching for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe will absolutely steal your heart and your taste buds. With layers of luscious mascarpone cream, juicy fresh strawberries, and delicately soaked ladyfinger cookies, this no-bake dessert is vibrant, creamy, and beautifully fragrant. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the sweetness of summer strawberries while keeping things light, fresh, and utterly irresistible. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this enchanting strawberry tiramisu becomes a beloved treat for any occasion!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe uses a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Each component has a role to play—from the natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh strawberries to the creamy mascarpone blend that gives this dessert its iconic richness.
- Fresh strawberries (1 pound, hulled and sliced): Choose ripe, sweet berries for natural flavor and vibrant color.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness while macerating the strawberries.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the strawberry flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup, cold): Whipped to stiff peaks for a light and airy texture in the cream layer.
- Mascarpone cheese (8 ounces, softened): The creamy backbone of the tiramisu, lending richness and smoothness.
- Powdered sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the mascarpone mixture without any graininess.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, comforting aroma into the cream.
- Strawberry juice or milk (1 cup): Used to gently soak the ladyfinger cookies, adding moisture and subtle flavor.
- Ladyfinger cookies (24): Light and crisp cookies that soak up the strawberry juice perfectly without turning soggy.
- Fresh mint leaves (optional): Adds a fresh and colorful garnish to finish the presentation.
How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Macerate the Strawberries
Start by placing your sliced strawberries in a bowl along with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Gently stir to combine, then let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the strawberries to release their natural juices, creating a sweet and tangy syrup that will infuse your tiramisu with freshness and depth.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
While the strawberries macerate, grab a large bowl and whip your cold heavy cream until it holds stiff peaks. This light and airy whipped cream adds an irresistible fluffiness to the mascarpone mixture, making each bite delightfully creamy without feeling heavy.
Step 3: Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the softened mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The vanilla adds a subtle warmth that complements the tartness of the strawberries perfectly. Now, gently fold the whipped cream into this mascarpone blend to create the luscious filling that gives this tiramisu its signature texture.
Step 4: Dip the Ladyfingers
Take each ladyfinger cookie and briefly dip it into the strawberry juice or milk, just long enough to soak up a bit of moisture but not so long that they fall apart. This step is crucial for maintaining the structure of the tiramisu while imparting a delicate strawberry flavor throughout the layers.
Step 5: Layer Your Tiramisu
Arrange a single layer of the dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of your serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over this layer, then top with half of the juicy macerated strawberries and their syrup. Repeat this process for a second layer—ladyfingers, mascarpone, then strawberries—to build a beautiful, multi-layered dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Cover your tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling period allows all the flavors to meld together and the texture to set perfectly, delivering that melt-in-your-mouth sensation everyone loves about tiramisu.
How to Serve Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
When it’s time to serve, a few fresh mint leaves scattered on top instantly elevate the dish with a pop of green and a refreshing contrast to the sweet strawberries. You can also add a few whole strawberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar for that extra touch of elegance and charm.
Side Dishes
This Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe shines wonderfully on its own, but if you’d like to complement it, consider serving with a small espresso or a light fruit salad. The espresso’s bold bitterness beautifully balances the sweetness, while a fruit salad keeps the mood fresh and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the traditional bowl and try assembling this tiramisu in individual glass jars or pretty parfait glasses. Layering it visually highlights the vibrant colors and textures, making it perfect for parties or special occasions. Plus, it makes serving effortless and Instagram-worthy!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though we doubt there will be any!), store them covered in the refrigerator. The tiramisu will keep beautifully fresh for up to 48 hours, maintaining its creamy texture and fruity brightness.
Freezing
While this strawberry tiramisu tastes best fresh, you can freeze it for up to one month if needed. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
This Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is best served chilled and should not be reheated. The creamy layers and fresh strawberries are designed to be enjoyed cold, preserving their delicate texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries release too much water when thawed, which can make the dessert watery and affect the structure of your tiramisu.
What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?
If mascarpone is hard to find, try mixing cream cheese with a bit of heavy cream to mimic the creamy texture, though the flavor won’t be quite the same. For authentic results, mascarpone is definitely the way to go.
Is it necessary to soak the ladyfingers in strawberry juice?
Yes, soaking the ladyfingers adds moisture and strawberry flavor that’s essential for this twist on traditional tiramisu. Just be sure to dip briefly to keep them from becoming too soggy.
Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies on mascarpone and heavy cream for its signature creaminess. To make a vegan version, you’d need to experiment with dairy-free cream and cheese substitutes, but the texture and taste won’t be quite the same.
How long does Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe keep in the refrigerator?
Once assembled, it keeps well for up to 48 hours when covered. It’s best enjoyed within this time to savor the fresh strawberries and creamy layers at their peak.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe. It’s a celebration of fresh fruit, creamy indulgence, and easy elegance all wrapped into one stunning dessert. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, give this recipe a try and prepare to become a devoted fan of this fresh, no-bake classic. There’s something unforgettable about the way strawberries and mascarpone come together that will have you making this strawberry tiramisu again and again.
Print
Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling (at least 4 hours)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Tiramisu is a refreshing, no-bake Italian dessert featuring layers of sweetened mascarpone cream, fresh strawberries, and ladyfinger cookies soaked in strawberry juice. This light and creamy treat is perfect for summer gatherings and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Strawberries
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cream Mixture
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Assembly
- 1 cup strawberry juice or milk
- 24 ladyfinger cookies
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Place the sliced strawberries in a bowl with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Stir gently and let sit for 15 minutes until juicy to enhance their flavor and release natural juices.
- Whip Cream: In a large bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, creating a light and airy texture needed for the mascarpone cream layer.
- Mix Mascarpone: In a separate bowl, combine the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy for a flavorful base.
- Fold Cream into Mascarpone: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined, maintaining the light texture of the cream.
- Dip Ladyfingers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the strawberry juice or milk, ensuring they absorb some liquid without becoming soggy.
- Assemble Layers: Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Spoon half of the strawberries and their juices on top. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers, remaining cream, and remaining strawberries.
- Chill: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a thin layer of strawberry jam between the layers.
- This dessert can be assembled a day ahead, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Use ripe, sweet strawberries for best results.
