Strawberry Tiramisu: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Dessert

Strawberry Tiramisu is a delightful spin on the traditional Italian dessert, swapping coffee and cocoa for juicy strawberries and creamy mascarpone. This no-bake dessert is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a vibrant, fruity flavor that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a refreshing treat, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds!

What Is Strawberry Tiramisu?

Strawberry Tiramisu is a layered dessert made with ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi), sweetened mascarpone cream, fresh strawberries, and a splash of fruit juice. It keeps the creamy texture and layered presentation of classic tiramisu while introducing a fruity twist, making it lighter and perfect for warm-weather occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required – Ideal for when you want a quick and easy dessert.
• Vibrant and fresh flavors – Strawberries bring a burst of color and sweetness.
• Crowd-pleasing – Elegant enough for special occasions but simple to prepare.
• Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe with different fruits or juices.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Tiramisu:

• 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup sugar, divided
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup orange juice (or strawberry juice)
• 1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)
• Optional: powdered sugar and extra strawberries for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Strawberries

1. In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with ¼ cup of sugar.
2. Let the strawberries sit for 10–15 minutes to release their natural juices.

Making the Mascarpone Cream

1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, the remaining ¼ cup of sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
2. Gently fold the mascarpone into the whipped cream, mixing until smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing to maintain the light texture.

Layering the Tiramisu

1. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the orange or strawberry juice, ensuring they are moist but not soggy.
2. Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of a serving dish or trifle bowl.
3. Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
4. Add a layer of the macerated strawberries on top of the cream.
5. Repeat the layers (ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, strawberries) until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of mascarpone cream.

Setting and Garnishing

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
2. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and decorate with fresh strawberries for a beautiful finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or a refreshing strawberry lemonade.
• For individual servings, assemble in small glasses or jars for a portable dessert option.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store Strawberry Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• The flavors will deepen as it sits, but the ladyfingers may soften further over time.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Note that the texture of the strawberries may slightly change upon freezing.

Recipe Variations

• Berry Blend Tiramisu: Replace half the strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
• Alcoholic Twist: Add a splash of limoncello or Grand Marnier to the fruit juice for an adult version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ladyfingers for a celiac-friendly dessert.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and a dairy-free cream cheese for mascarpone.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using to avoid a watery dessert.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is best when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

What can I use instead of ladyfingers?
Sponge cake or vanilla wafers can be substituted if ladyfingers are unavailable.

Strawberry Tiramisu is a fresh and fruity dessert that combines creamy mascarpone, juicy strawberries, and tender ladyfingers into a show-stopping dish. Its no-bake simplicity makes it a go-to for busy hosts, while its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation will leave your guests raving. Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of tangy freshness. Don’t forget to share your experience—we’d love to hear how it turned out!

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