It was a warm summer afternoon in Asheville, the kind where the scent of honeysuckle drifts through the open window, and I was just five years old, perched on a stool in Grandma Rose’s kitchen. She handed me a tiny rolling pin, showing me how to flatten out biscuit dough – lumpy, yes, but perfect in my eyes. That kitchen, filled with love and the aroma of baking, sparked everything for me.
Now, years later, running Sweet Magnolia, my own home bakery, I still chase that same feeling of warmth and joy with every creation. This Strawberry Tiramisu recipe is one of those special dishes. It blends the elegance of a classic Italian dessert with the vibrant, fresh taste of summer strawberries, a true showstopper.
Forget heavy desserts; this light, airy, and utterly refreshing Strawberry Tiramisu brightens any table. It’s the perfect sweet ending, a dessert that tells a story of sunshine and sweet memories. You’ll love making and sharing this delightful Strawberry Tiramisu with your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You need a dessert that truly shines, and this Strawberry Tiramisu delivers on all fronts. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You won’t even need to turn on your oven, making it perfect for hot summer days or busy schedules.
This no-bake wonder comes together with minimal fuss, but the results taste absolutely gourmet. Furthermore, the flavor profile is simply divine. Imagine layers of tender ladyfingers, kissed with sweet strawberry syrup, intertwined with a rich, velvety mascarpone cream.
Then, generous slices of fresh, ripe strawberries burst with natural sweetness in every single bite. This is a delightful departure from traditional coffee-based tiramisu, offering a bright, fruity twist that everyone adores.
This fresh Strawberry Tiramisu recipe is also stunningly beautiful. Its vibrant red and creamy white layers make an impressive presentation, guaranteeing gasps of delight from your guests. It is ideal for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself.
Finally, it’s a wonderful make-ahead dessert. You can assemble it the day before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and intensify overnight. This means less stress on the day of your event and more time to enjoy your company.
In short, this Strawberry Tiramisu offers ease, incredible flavor, stunning presentation, and convenience. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite dessert!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this magnificent Strawberry Tiramisu. Fresh, high-quality components make all the difference in the final taste and texture. Always choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best results.
* 2 pounds (about 8 cups) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for macerating strawberries)
* 1/4 cup water (for strawberry syrup)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for brightness)
* 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened at room temperature
* 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
* 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
* 2 (3-ounce) packages ladyfingers (about 24-30 ladyfingers, ensure they are suitable for dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this beautiful Strawberry Tiramisu is a rewarding process. Follow these steps carefully for the best results, and soon you will enjoy a truly magnificent dessert.
1. Prepare the Strawberries: Begin by hulling and slicing 1.5 pounds of your fresh strawberries. Reserve the remaining 0.5 pound for garnishing later.
Place the sliced strawberries in a medium bowl. Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Gently toss the strawberries to coat them evenly.
Let this mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or even up to an hour. This process, called macerating, draws out the strawberries’ natural juices and creates a delicious syrup.
2. Make the Strawberry Syrup: After the strawberries have macerated, pour them into a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl. Allow the syrup to drain completely from the strawberries.
You should collect about 1/2 cup of strawberry syrup. If you have less, add a tiny bit of water to reach 1/2 cup. Now, add 1/4 cup of water to this strawberry syrup.
Stir everything together. This will be your dipping liquid for the ladyfingers, infusing every bite of the Strawberry Tiramisu with intense fruit flavor.
3. Whip the Mascarpone Cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened mascarpone cheese, chilled heavy cream, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of alcohol-free vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, start on low speed to combine the ingredients.
Gradually increase the speed to medium-high. Beat the mixture until it becomes thick, fluffy, and forms soft peaks. Be careful not to overbeat, as mascarpone can curdle if overmixed. This luscious cream forms the heart of your Homemade Strawberry Tiramisu.
4. Assemble the First Layer: Choose a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similarly sized trifle bowl for your Strawberry Tiramisu. Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the prepared strawberry syrup, just for a second or two on each side.
Do not oversoak them, or they will become mushy. Arrange a single layer of the syrup-soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of your dish, covering the entire base. Break them if necessary to fit snugly.
5. Add Cream and Strawberries: Evenly spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the layer of ladyfingers. Then, arrange half of the macerated strawberry slices over the cream. Ensure a good distribution of strawberries for consistent flavor in your Delicious Strawberry Tiramisu.
6. Repeat Layers: Create a second layer by repeating step 4: dip more ladyfingers in the strawberry syrup and arrange them over the strawberries. Next, spread the remaining half of the mascarpone cream over the second layer of ladyfingers.
Finally, top with the remaining macerated strawberry slices. This builds the signature layers of your Strawberry Tiramisu.
7. Chill and Garnish: Cover the dish loosely with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the Strawberry Tiramisu for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight.
Chilling allows the ladyfingers to soften further and the flavors to fully meld. Just before serving, slice the reserved 0.5 pound of fresh strawberries and arrange them decoratively on top of your chilled Fresh Strawberry Tiramisu. A light dusting of powdered sugar is also a lovely touch. Serve this delightful Strawberry Tiramisu cold and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
Making a truly exceptional Strawberry Tiramisu involves a few key techniques that elevate it from good to absolutely divine. These tips will help you achieve perfect results every time.
First, choose the freshest, ripest strawberries you can find. The quality of your fruit profoundly impacts the final flavor of your Strawberry Tiramisu. Look for berries that are bright red, plump, and fragrant. Avoid any with white tops or soft spots.
When macerating your strawberries, don’t skip the lemon juice. A touch of lemon juice brightens the strawberry flavor and prevents the dessert from tasting overly sweet. It truly enhances the natural tartness and brings out the best in the berries. This small addition makes a big difference in your homemade Strawberry Tiramisu.
For the mascarpone cream, ensure your mascarpone cheese is at room temperature before you start whipping. This ensures a smooth, lump-free cream. Cold mascarpone can be difficult to combine and may result in a grainy texture.
Conversely, keep your heavy cream well-chilled before whipping. Cold cream whips faster and achieves a much more stable, voluminous peak. This balance of temperatures is crucial for the perfect consistency of your Strawberry Tiramisu filling.
Do not over-soak the ladyfingers. This is perhaps the most critical tip for any tiramisu. Ladyfingers absorb liquid very quickly.
A quick dip – just a second or two on each side – is all they need. If you soak them for too long, they will become soggy and fall apart, ruining the delicate texture of your Strawberry Tiramisu. You want them moist, but still firm enough to hold their shape.
Finally, give your Strawberry Tiramisu ample time to chill. While 4-6 hours is the minimum, an overnight chill is truly ideal. This extended refrigeration period allows the ladyfingers to fully soften, the flavors to meld beautifully, and the cream to set perfectly.
The patience pays off with a much more cohesive and flavorful Summer Strawberry Tiramisu. Resist the urge to serve it too early!
Making a truly exceptional Strawberry Tiramisu involves a few key techniques that elevate it from good to absolutely divine. First, choose the freshest, ripest strawberries you can find. The quality of your fruit profoundly impacts the final flavor of your Strawberry Tiramisu. To explore more scrumptious recipes, have a look at our Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This Strawberry Tiramisu is a fantastic make-ahead dessert, and knowing how to store it properly ensures every slice remains as fresh and delicious as the first.
Refrigeration: Store any leftover Strawberry Tiramisu tightly covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods and keeps the ladyfingers moist. It will stay fresh and delightful for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve on the second day, making it an excellent dessert to prepare in advance.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Strawberry Tiramisu if absolutely necessary, although the texture of the strawberries might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, assemble the tiramisu in a freezer-safe dish. Wrap it tightly with several layers of plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil.
Label it with the date. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy your frozen Strawberry Tiramisu, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can affect the cream’s consistency and food safety. Once thawed, you might notice the strawberries release a bit more liquid, but the overall flavor of your homemade Strawberry Tiramisu will still be wonderful. Garnish with fresh strawberries just before serving to refresh its appearance.
Reheating: This Strawberry Tiramisu is a chilled dessert and should not be reheated. Serve it directly from the refrigerator for the best taste and texture.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Strawberry Tiramisu shines beautifully on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the entire experience. Its fresh, fruity notes make it incredibly versatile.
For a simple yet elegant pairing, serve slices of Strawberry Tiramisu with a small dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. The added creaminess and vanilla complement the strawberries perfectly. A light drizzle of a balsamic glaze can also add an unexpected, sophisticated tang that pairs wonderfully with the sweet berries in your fresh Strawberry Tiramisu.
When hosting a brunch or afternoon tea, this Strawberry Tiramisu makes a stunning centerpiece. Accompany it with a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, savory quiches, and other light pastries. A pot of fragrant herbal tea, perhaps a chamomile or a peppermint, would be a delightful beverage choice. For a coffee lover, a light roast coffee would also pair nicely with the mascarpone.
If you are serving this for a dinner party, consider offering a light dessert wine alongside it. A Moscato d’Asti or a Rosé would beautifully echo the fruitiness of the strawberries without overpowering the delicate flavors of your Strawberry Tiramisu. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling cider or a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade would also be excellent choices, cutting through the richness of the cream.
Finally, for a complete summer spread, pair your Strawberry Tiramisu with other berry-focused desserts, like a mixed berry crumble or individual fruit tarts. The varied textures and flavors create a delightful medley. No matter how you choose to serve it, this Strawberry Tiramisu promises to be a memorable treat.
This Strawberry Tiramisu shines beautifully on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the entire experience. For a simple yet elegant pairing, serve slices of Strawberry Tiramisu with a small dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. To enhance your breakfast options, consider trying our delightful Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins.
FAQs
Can I make Strawberry Tiramisu ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Strawberry Tiramisu is actually better when made ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight.
This allows the ladyfingers to fully soften and the flavors to beautifully meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dessert. Just remember to cover it tightly.
What kind of ladyfingers should I use for Strawberry Tiramisu?
You should use firm, dry ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits). These absorb the strawberry syrup without becoming overly soggy. Avoid soft, cake-like ladyfingers, which can become mushy quickly.
Many grocery stores carry the harder, drier variety specifically for tiramisu. This ensures your Strawberry Tiramisu has the perfect texture.
My mascarpone cream is not thickening, what went wrong?
Several factors can prevent the mascarpone cream from thickening. Ensure your heavy cream is very cold and has a high fat content (at least 36%). Also, avoid overmixing the mascarpone cheese itself, as it can curdle.
Whip the heavy cream and mascarpone separately to soft peaks, then gently fold them together. Ensure all ingredients, especially mascarpone, are at room temperature initially for smooth blending, but then chill the heavy cream. If all else fails, a tiny bit of cream cheese can help stabilize it, but it will slightly alter the flavor of your Strawberry Tiramisu.
Can I use frozen strawberries for this Strawberry Tiramisu recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them completely first and drain any excess liquid. While the texture might be slightly softer than fresh strawberries, the flavor will still be fantastic for your homemade Strawberry Tiramisu. You may need to adjust the amount of sugar slightly if your frozen berries are sweeter or more tart.
How long does Strawberry Tiramisu last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap, your Strawberry Tiramisu will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The flavors develop beautifully over time, so leftovers are truly a treat. Enjoy this fresh Strawberry Tiramisu throughout the week.
Strawberry Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, making use of fresh strawberries to create a light and flavorful treat. This dessert showcases the fusion of traditional Italian flavors with the vibrant freshness of summer fruits, offering a perfect indulgence for warm days, similar to the traditional preparation of tiramisu with coffee and cocoa.
Print
Strawberry Tiramisu
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Tiramisu is a no-bake dessert that combines layers of ladyfingers soaked in strawberry syrup with a rich mascarpone cream and fresh strawberries. It's an elegant and refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream, chilled
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
2 packages ladyfingers (about 24-30)
Instructions
- Hull and slice 1.5 pounds of strawberries; reserve 0.5 pounds for garnish. Toss with sugar and lemon juice and let sit for at least 30 minutes
- Drain the macerated strawberries to collect the syrup, mixing with 1/4 cup water
- In a large bowl, combine mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until thick and fluffy
- Dip ladyfingers in the strawberry syrup briefly and layer them in a 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers and top with half of the strawberries
- Repeat layering with remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and strawberries
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. Garnish with reserved strawberries before serving
Notes
For best results, use the freshest strawberries. Chill the heavy cream well before whipping.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Sugar: 25-30 g
- Sodium: 50-70 mg
- Fat: 30-35 g
- Saturated Fat: 20-25 g
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 40-45 g
- Fiber: 2-3 g
- Protein: 5-7 g
- Cholesterol: 100-120 mg