If you love the classic Italian dessert but crave a fresh, fruity twist, this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. It brings together the creamy richness of mascarpone and whipped cream with the vibrant sweetness of marinated strawberries, creating a stunning, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual get-together or a special celebration, the layers of orange-soaked ladyfingers, luscious strawberry preserves, and velvety cream promise a burst of flavor with every bite. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe that truly stands out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but crucial in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a special role, from juicy, fresh strawberries to the silky mascarpone cream, ensuring your Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe turns out beautifully every time.
- Fresh strawberries (2 pints): These provide the sweet and tangy fruit base that brightens the dish.
- Strawberry preserves (4 tablespoons): Adds extra depth of strawberry flavor and a touch of sweetness to the marinate.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brings a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (½ and 1 teaspoon): Used twice for that warm, aromatic lift in both the strawberry mixture and cream layer.
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups, cold): Whipped to soft peaks for a light and airy texture in the cream.
- Mascarpone cheese (16 oz, cold): This Italian creamy cheese adds richness and smoothness to the tiramisu.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup): Sweetens and stabilizes the cream layer without graininess.
- Crisp ladyfingers (7 oz): Provide a delicate crunch and soak up the orange juice for flavor.
- Orange juice (½ cup): Used to lightly dip the ladyfingers, infusing a fresh citrus note instead of the usual coffee.
- Optional garnish: Extra strawberries, powdered sugar, or fresh mint to make your dessert look as stunning as it tastes.
How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Strawberries
Start by slicing about 1.5 pints of your fresh strawberries, saving the most beautiful ones for garnishing later. Toss them gently with the strawberry preserves, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Let them sit for about 10 minutes—this short marinating time intensifies their flavor and creates a lovely syrup that will soak into the layers, making every bite juicy and sweet.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Layer
Next, whip your cold heavy cream until soft peaks form—this means the cream should hold its shape but still be fluffy and light. Then, gently beat in the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and the second splash of vanilla extract. Be careful not to overmix here; you want the cream light and smooth, with a luscious texture that melts in your mouth when layered with the strawberries and ladyfingers.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish for the assembly. Quickly dip half of your ladyfingers into the orange juice—just a quick dunk to avoid sogginess—and arrange them in a single, neat layer at the bottom. Spoon half of your marinated strawberries with their juices evenly over the ladyfingers. Smooth half of your mascarpone cream mixture on top of the strawberries, creating a creamy blanket. Repeat this layering process once more: dip and layer the rest of the ladyfingers, add the remaining strawberries, then top with the last of the mascarpone cream. Smooth the surface with a spatula to create a beautiful finish.
Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
Cover your tiramisu and pop it into the refrigerator for at least four hours. If you can wait overnight, even better—this resting time allows the flavors to intertwine and the ladyfingers to soften perfectly, creating that classic tiramisu texture with a fresh strawberry twist. Just before serving, garnish with the reserved strawberries, a light dusting of powdered sugar, and some fresh mint for that inviting pop of color and aroma.
How to Serve Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Presentation is everything when it comes to dessert. For your Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe, fresh whole strawberries, a fine sprinkling of powdered sugar, and sprigs of vibrant mint leaves not only elevate the appearance but also add an extra layer of freshness that excites the palate from first glance to last spoonful.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own but pairing it with light, complementary sides like a crisp green salad or a simple vanilla panna cotta can make your meal feel extra special. For a fun touch, serve alongside a chilled glass of sparkling rosé or a sweet Moscato to match the fruity profile of your tiramisu.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow guests, consider serving your Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe in individual glass jars or pretty parfait cups. Layer slices of strawberry along the glass edges for a pretty visual effect. Another idea is to use edible flowers on top for that garden-fresh vibe. This not only makes a beautiful table centerpiece but also allows guests to enjoy personalized servings and seconds without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and trust me, you probably will), cover the tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated. It should remain fresh and delicious for up to three days. The flavors continue to deepen in the fridge, so it’s actually a great make-ahead dessert for busy days.
Freezing
While tiramisu is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, you can freeze it if needed. Use an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its creamy texture. Note that freezing may slightly soften the ladyfingers texture, but the flavors will remain delightful.
Reheating
Traditionally, tiramisu is served cold and does not require reheating. If you prefer it slightly less chilled, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This brief warming helps soften the flavors without losing the signature creamy texture that makes this dessert so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for the best texture and flavor in this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe, but if you must use frozen, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before marinating. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may be softer and less vibrant.
What can I substitute for orange juice?
If you don’t have orange juice on hand, try using a mild fruit juice like apple or white grape juice for dipping the ladyfingers, or even a light lemon syrup to maintain a citrusy note without overpowering the strawberries.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
While traditional tiramisu relies on mascarpone and cream, you can experiment with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut cream and vegan cream cheese. Just note that the texture and flavor will be different but still delicious in its own right.
How long can I marinate the strawberries?
Marinating the strawberries for 10 minutes as suggested allows them to soak up the preserves and lemon just right. You can extend marinating to 20-30 minutes for more syrupy juice, but avoid too long or they might become mushy.
Is it necessary to chill the tiramisu that long?
The chilling step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften just enough. Serving too soon means the dessert won’t have developed its signature creamy, cohesive texture that makes the Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe so irresistible.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this incredible Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe at your fingertips, you’re just a few steps away from creating a dessert that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Its layers of fresh strawberry sweetness paired with creamy mascarpone offer a vibrant twist on a timeless classic—perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to something special. Give it a try and watch how this gorgeous dessert quickly becomes a staple at your table.
Print
Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing twist on the classic Italian tiramisu, this Strawberry Tiramisu features layers of marinated fresh strawberries, creamy mascarpone mixture, and crisp ladyfingers soaked in orange juice. Chilled to perfection, it’s a light and fruity dessert perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Strawberries and Marinade
- 2 pints fresh strawberries (about 4 cups sliced)
- 4 tablespoons strawberry preserves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Layer
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese (cold, two 8 oz tubs)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Other
- 7 oz crisp ladyfingers
- ½ cup orange juice
- Optional garnish: extra strawberries, powdered sugar, mint leaves
Instructions
- Marinate the strawberries: Slice 1.5 pints of the strawberries, reserving the prettiest berries for garnish. In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with strawberry preserves, lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Toss everything to coat evenly and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to marinate while you prepare the other components.
- Make the cream layer: In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the cold mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat gently but thoroughly just until the mixture is smooth and fluffy—avoid overmixing to maintain lightness.
- Assemble the tiramisu: Quickly dip half of the ladyfingers into the orange juice—just a quick dunk to avoid sogginess—and arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon half of the marinated strawberries along with their juices evenly over the ladyfingers. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the strawberry layer, smoothing the surface. Repeat the layering with the remaining dipped ladyfingers, strawberries, and mascarpone cream, finishing with a smooth cream layer on top.
- Chill and serve: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly. Before serving, garnish with the reserved fresh strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh mint leaves if desired. Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe but firm strawberries to prevent excess liquid in the dessert.
- Make sure all dairy ingredients are cold to help with whipping and texture.
- Don’t soak the ladyfingers; a quick dunk keeps them crisp yet tender after chilling.
- Overnight chilling improves the flavor and texture markedly.
- Can be made a day ahead, covered tightly and refrigerated.
