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
Scale
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.
