If you adore classic tiramisu but crave a fresh, fruity twist, this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine luscious layers of fluffy mascarpone cream melded with vibrant strawberry flavors and a hint of citrus, all nestled between delicate, juicy ladyfinger cookies soaked in a sweet strawberry syrup. This dessert is the perfect celebration of spring and summer bounty, delivering a refreshing, irresistible treat that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each bringing its own unique touch to the final masterpiece. From the tart brightness of fresh strawberries to the creamy decadence of mascarpone, every component plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color.
- 4 cups quartered strawberries: Provides a fresh and vibrant burst of natural sweetness and color.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the strawberry compote, enhancing its natural juices.
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty note that balances the sweetness.
- â…“ cup strawberry jam: Intensifies the strawberry flavor with a rich, fruity layer.
- 1 cup strawberry liqueur (or strawberry juice, orange juice, or Grand Marnier): Soaks the ladyfingers for a moist, boozy, or citrusy touch.
- 2 cups mascarpone cheese: The creamy backbone, giving richness and velvety smoothness.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone and the whipped cream perfectly without graininess.
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a bit of brightness to the mascarpone mixture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances depth of flavor and warmth.
- 1¾ cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped to airy perfection for the light, fluffy texture.
- ¾ cup chopped strawberries: Adds texture and bursts of fresh strawberry flavor inside the layers.
- 28 ladyfinger cookies: The classic cake component, perfectly soaked in syrup to absorb flavor without becoming soggy.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream: For whipping and topping the final dessert.
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries: Pulverized to a powder to create a striking, flavorful dusting on top.
How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Compote
Begin by combining the quartered strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Let it come to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the mixture thickens into a luscious, fragrant compote. Once done, remove it from the heat and cool completely before chilling it in the fridge. This compote will infuse the dessert with deep, jammy strawberry goodness.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream
While the compote cools, beat the mascarpone cheese together with ¼ cup of powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip 1¾ cups of heavy cream with the remaining ¼ cup powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture for an irresistible, fluffy filling that melts on your tongue.
Step 3: Create the Strawberry Syrup
Stir the strawberry jam into the strawberry liqueur (or your chosen alternative) to make a vibrant syrup. This sweet, fragrant liquid will soak the ladyfingers, keeping them tender while layering in more bright strawberry flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Dip each ladyfinger briefly in the strawberry syrup—just enough to soak without falling apart—and arrange a layer in your serving pan. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, drizzle with some strawberry jam, and sprinkle chopped strawberries on top for texture and freshness. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Cover and refrigerate the whole tiramisu overnight to let the flavors meld into pure bliss.
Step 5: Final Touches
Before serving, whip the remaining ½ cup heavy cream to soft peaks. Pulverize the freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor or blender until you get a fine powder. Sift this powder generously over the tiramisu, then dollop or pipe the whipped cream on top. Garnish with fresh strawberries for an eye-catching finish that will impress every guest.
How to Serve Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freeze-dried strawberry powder adds elegant color and intensity, while fresh strawberry slices bring a juicy pop in every bite. A drizzle of strawberry syrup or a mint leaf can add extra charm and a hint of freshness to your presentation.
Side Dishes
This Strawberry Tiramisu pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine or sparkling rosé to complement the fruity notes. If you want to keep it non-alcoholic, serve alongside iced herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade to balance the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering this tiramisu in individual glasses or mason jars for personal servings that look stunning at parties. Alternatively, use a heart-shaped pan for special occasions to give it a romantic flair. You can also add edible flowers on top to make it an unforgettable centerpiece dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Strawberry tiramisu tastes even better after resting, so leftovers should be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, but be sure to keep it well covered to preserve moisture and prevent it from absorbing odors.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for best results, as the delicate texture of mascarpone and fresh strawberries can change upon thawing. If you must freeze, keep it tightly wrapped and consume within one month; thaw gently in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled and not reheated. Warming it can cause separation of the creamy layers and affect the fresh strawberry flavors. Simply allow to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving if it’s been refrigerated.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries give the best flavor and texture, but if you’re short on fresh fruit, thaw and drain frozen strawberries well before using. They can work for the compote but may make the dessert a bit more watery.
What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?
If mascarpone isn’t available, a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream works as a substitute. Whip them together to reach a similar creamy consistency, but expect a slightly tangier flavor.
Is it necessary to include alcohol in the strawberry syrup?
No, using strawberry juice, orange juice, or even a flavored syrup are excellent non-alcoholic options that still soak ladyfingers beautifully and pack plenty of flavor.
How long should I refrigerate the tiramisu before serving?
Overnight refrigeration is ideal. This allows the flavors to develop fully and the ladyfingers to soften just right. If short on time, chill for at least 4 hours.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the ladyfinger cookies for a gluten-free variety or use gluten-free sponge cake. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe that brightens any occasion with its perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and light textures. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or indulging on a quiet night in, this dessert brings a joyful splash of strawberry sunshine to the table. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite twist on an Italian classic!
Print
Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes plus overnight chilling
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This delightful Strawberry Tiramisu is a fresh and fruity twist on the classic Italian dessert. Layers of mascarpone cream alternate with strawberry-soaked ladyfingers and fresh berries, creating a luscious, creamy, and refreshing treat perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Strawberry Sauce
- 4 cups quartered strawberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- â…“ cup strawberry jam
- 1 cup strawberry liqueur (or strawberry juice, orange juice, or Grand Marnier)
Mascarpone Cream
- 2 cups mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar (divided)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1¾ cups heavy whipping cream
Assembly
- ¾ cup chopped strawberries
- 28 ladyfinger cookies
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream (for topping)
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberry Sauce: Combine the quartered strawberries, granulated sugar, and 4 tablespoons of lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened. Remove from heat, let cool completely, then refrigerate to chill.
- Make Mascarpone Cream: Beat the mascarpone cheese with ¼ cup of powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip 1¾ cups heavy whipping cream with the remaining ¼ cup powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined and creamy.
- Prepare Strawberry Syrup: Mix the strawberry jam with the strawberry liqueur (or alternative liquid) to create a flavorful syrup for soaking the ladyfingers.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the strawberry syrup to soak lightly, and arrange a layer at the bottom of a serving pan. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, drizzle with some of the strawberry jam mixture, and sprinkle with chopped strawberries. Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, jam, and chopped strawberries. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Add Final Touches: Before serving, whip the remaining ½ cup of heavy cream until fluffy. Pulse the freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor to create a fine powder. Dust the powdered freeze-dried strawberries over the tiramisu and garnish with fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the strawberry liqueur with strawberry juice or orange juice.
- Make sure to quickly dip the ladyfingers so they don’t get too soggy and fall apart.
- Allowing the tiramisu to chill overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
- The freeze-dried strawberry powder adds a concentrated strawberry flavor and a pretty pink dusting.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
