If you’re searching for a dreamy no-bake dessert that combines creamy richness and bright fruitiness, look no further than Strawberry Tiramisu. This twist on the classic Italian treat is filled with layers of fluffy mascarpone cream, soft ladyfingers soaked in sweet strawberry syrup, and juicy fresh berries. Every bite celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer, making it an unforgettable showstopper for warm-weather gatherings or whenever you just want something a little extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Strawberry Tiramisu lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays its part to create that perfect balance of textures and colors that set this dessert apart and turn it into an absolute crowd-pleaser. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a helpful tip for each!
- Fresh Strawberries: Choose the ripest, juiciest berries you can find for bold color and maximum flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: This melts into the strawberries, helping them release their delicious juices.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the berry flavor and adds a zesty lift.
- Heavy Cream: Whips up into luscious peaks, bringing incredible richness to the layers.
- Mascarpone Cheese: For that signature tiramisu creaminess and subtle tang.
- Powdered Sugar: Helps keep the mascarpone mixture ultra smooth and sweet without grittiness.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a hint boosts the creamy base and ties everything together.
- Ladyfinger Cookies (Savoiardi): Their airy texture soaks up the strawberry juice for the perfect soft bite.
- Strawberry Jam (optional): Thinned a bit, it amps up the berry flavor and moisture if your strawberries aren’t super juicy.
- Fresh Strawberries & Mint (for garnish): These add a beautiful, fresh finish on top—totally optional but highly recommended!
How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu
Step 1: Macerate the Strawberries
Start by gently tossing your sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and fresh lemon juice in a medium bowl. Let them sit for about 15 minutes—the berries will soften and get super juicy, making that ruby-red syrup you’ll use to soak the ladyfingers. This step infuses your Strawberry Tiramisu with pure fruit flavor.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
Pour your cold heavy cream into a bowl and whip it until stiff peaks form. A stand or hand mixer makes this step quick and easy, but it’s totally doable by hand with a balloon whisk for a mini arm workout! Whipped cream is at the heart of that luscious tiramisu texture.
Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Cream
In a separate bowl, blend together the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is smooth and nicely combined—this is your dreamy, tangy-sweet base layer.
Step 4: Fold Together
Now comes the magic: Gently fold your fluffy whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Go slowly so you don’t knock out all the lovely air in the cream. The result should be light, billowy, and totally irresistible.
Step 5: Dip and Layer the Ladyfingers
Take each ladyfinger and quickly dip it—just for a second—into the bowl of strawberry juices (or thinned strawberry jam, if your berries didn’t release much syrup). Start lining the bottom of your serving dish (a 9×9 square pan works great, or even individual glasses for a fun twist). This is where Strawberry Tiramisu gets its signature soak!
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Spread half of your mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, then scatter half of the macerated strawberries over top. Repeat with the next layer: dip and arrange the remaining ladyfingers, spread the rest of the cream, then add the last of your berries. You want those juicy strawberries to peek through and promise plenty of sweetness in every bite!
Step 7: Chill
Cover your Strawberry Tiramisu and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better). This helps the flavors meld, and allows the ladyfingers to soften just perfectly—so every mouthful melts away.
How to Serve Strawberry Tiramisu
Garnishes
For that extra wow factor, top your Strawberry Tiramisu with a handful of fresh strawberry slices and a few mint leaves just before serving. The mint brings a burst of color and freshness, while the extra berries are not only beautiful but also hint at all the flavor inside.
Side Dishes
This dessert is a showstopper on its own, but if you’d like to round out your table, serve Strawberry Tiramisu with strong espresso, sweet moscato wine, or a platter of crisp biscotti. The richness of the tiramisu pairs beautifully with a pick-me-up or a touch of crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Strawberry Tiramisu is gorgeous in a traditional dish, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Try assembling individual parfaits in wine or martini glasses, or even make a trifle in a big clear bowl to show off those pretty layers. Mini jam jars are also adorable for picnics or parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Strawberry Tiramisu keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Just cover tightly (plastic wrap or a lid works) and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with a little time, so if you have some hiding out in the fridge, you’re in for a treat!
Freezing
Wondering if you can freeze Strawberry Tiramisu? Absolutely! Wrap individual portions or the whole dish well and freeze for up to a month. Let it thaw slowly in the fridge before serving—it may lose a little fluffiness, but the flavors will still shine.
Reheating
There’s no reheating necessary for this sweet treat—it’s best served chilled straight from the fridge. If the tiramisu becomes a bit too cold after freezing, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes to soften up before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I make Strawberry Tiramisu ahead of time?
Definitely! In fact, making it ahead lets all the flavors mingle and the layers set up perfectly. Prepare it up to a day in advance, keep it refrigerated, and garnish just before serving for the freshest presentation.
What can I use instead of ladyfingers?
If you can’t find ladyfinger cookies, sponge cake or pound cake cut into strips will work. Just be sure to dip them quickly so they don’t get too soggy!
Is there a way to make it non-dairy?
Absolutely! Substitute plant-based whipped topping for the cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the mascarpone. Use vegan ladyfingers or soft vanilla cookies to keep everything in line with your needs.
Can I add alcohol to this recipe?
Yes! For a grown-up spin, stir a splash of strawberry liqueur or Grand Marnier into the strawberry mixture before assembling your Strawberry Tiramisu. It adds a delightful depth and a bit of special occasion sparkle.
Can I blend some of the strawberries for a juicier texture?
For an extra-soaked, more luscious Strawberry Tiramisu, blend a few strawberries into a puree and mix it into the soaking syrup. Your ladyfingers will soak up even more strawberry flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about sharing a homemade Strawberry Tiramisu with loved ones. With its sunset-hued layers, tangy fruit, and cloud-like cream, this dessert is pure joy in a pan. Give it a try—every spoonful is a little taste of summer waiting to happen!
Print
Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with this refreshing Strawberry Tiramisu. A fruity twist on the classic Italian dessert, this no-bake treat is perfect for entertaining or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Mixture:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the Mascarpone Cream:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembling:
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam (optional, thinned with 1 tablespoon water)
- Fresh strawberries and mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Mixture: Combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes.
- Whip the Cream: Beat heavy cream to stiff peaks.
- Make the Mascarpone Cream: Whisk mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped cream.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Dip ladyfingers in strawberry juice, layer in dish. Spread half of cream, add half of strawberries. Repeat layers. Chill for at least 4 hours.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh strawberries and mint leaves before serving.
Notes
- Enhance the flavor with a splash of strawberry liqueur or Grand Marnier.
- Blend some strawberries into a puree for a juicier soak.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
