If you adore the classic tiramisu but are craving a lighter, fruitier twist, this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Bursting with fresh strawberries and creamy mascarpone, this dessert layers luscious flavors and delightful textures that dance on your tongue. It’s easy to prepare, impressive to serve, and perfect for gatherings or whenever you want a sweet escape with a berry-fresh punch. Trust me, once you try this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe, it’ll hold a special spot in your dessert repertoire forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is straightforward, yet each one is essential for creating that perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and fruity. From fresh strawberries providing vibrant color and juicy sweetness to mascarpone that ensures a luxuriously smooth texture, every element is a star in its own right.
- Fresh strawberries (3 cups): Choose ripe, fragrant berries to maximize natural sweetness and freshness.
- Granulated sugar (⅓ cup): Enhances the strawberry’s flavor and helps create a delicate syrup.
- Mascarpone cheese (16 ounces): This creamy Italian cheese is key for that rich and velvety tiramisu layer.
- Ladyfingers (12 ounces): These light, crisp cookies soak up the juicy strawberry mixture beautifully without getting soggy.
- Strawberry pie filling (21 ounces): Adds an extra layer of concentrated strawberry goodness and a touch of gelatinous texture.
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Whipped to frothy peaks, it brings airy lightness and balances the richness.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): A subtle hint of vanilla deepens the dessert’s flavor complexity.
- Powdered sugar (¾ cup, sifted): Sweetens the mascarpone mixture smoothly without graininess.
- Vanilla instant pudding (6 tablespoons): Helps stabilize the cream mixture and adds a luscious body.
How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture
Begin by tossing the roughly chopped fresh strawberries with granulated sugar in a bowl. Let them sit for about 10 minutes so the sugar can draw out the natural juices, then gently mash the berries with a fork to create a lovely syrupy base. Next, fold in the strawberry pie filling for added sweetness and that classic pie-like texture—this is what gives the dessert its iconic strawberry burst.
Step 2: Whip the Mascarpone Cream
In a stand mixer or large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream alongside vanilla extract until the mixture becomes frothy—around 2 to 3 minutes on medium speed. Then, mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla instant pudding, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the mascarpone cheese in two parts to the whipped cream, mixing after each addition until the filling is luxuriously smooth and thick. This creamy layer will be the irresistible heart of your tiramisu.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Lightly spray a 9×9 baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the strawberry mixture—just a brief moment so they soak up flavor without getting soggy. Arrange a single layer of these soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of your dish. Spoon half of the strawberry mixture evenly over the cookies, then spread half of the mascarpone cream on top, smoothing it out carefully. Repeat the process with the remaining ladyfingers, strawberries, and mascarpone to build your layered masterpiece.
Step 4: Chill to Perfection
Cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the ladyfingers to soften just right, achieving that perfect forkable texture that tiramisu lovers crave.
How to Serve Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, consider topping your Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe with a few fresh berries for extra color and freshness. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream adds an elegant touch. You can also sprinkle chopped mint leaves for a burst of herbal brightness to complement the strawberry flavor perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with light sides that won’t overwhelm its delicate flavors. Fresh fruit salads, simple vanilla ice cream, or a crisp sparkling rosé are fabulous companions. If you prefer a warm contrast, a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a subtly sweet tea can elevate the experience as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on the traditional presentation, serve individual portions in clear glasses or mason jars to showcase the beautiful layers of fruit and cream. You could also create mini trifle cups for parties, letting guests enjoy their own personal Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe squares. Another fun idea is to top with edible flowers or drizzle with a light strawberry coulis for an extra wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is best kept covered in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing any other flavors. It will keep well for up to 3 days, although it’s usually devoured much sooner once served!
Freezing
You can freeze the strawberry tiramisu in an airtight container if you want to save some for later. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different after freezing, but it will still taste delicious.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Letting it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving can help soften the layers slightly, making it even more enjoyable, but avoid any direct heat to preserve the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are preferred for their texture and flavor, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid that can make the tiramisu watery.
Is mascarpone cheese easy to find?
Most grocery stores carry mascarpone in the cheese or specialty dairy section. If unavailable, cream cheese can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be a bit different.
How long should I soak the ladyfingers in the strawberry mixture?
Just a quick dip of about 1-2 seconds is enough. You want the ladyfingers to absorb some juice without becoming mushy to maintain the dessert’s structure.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe actually tastes better after a day or two when the flavors have melded perfectly, making it a great make-ahead treat.
What other fruits can I use instead of strawberries?
While strawberries are classic, you can experiment with raspberries, peaches, or mixed berries to suit your taste. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Final Thoughts
I really hope you give this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe a try because it’s one of those desserts that feels special yet is surprisingly effortless to make. It’s fresh, creamy, and elegantly simple—perfect to brighten any occasion or just to treat yourself. Once you dive into the layers of luscious strawberries and silky mascarpone, I promise it’ll become a sweet favorite you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Description
This Strawberry Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of soaked ladyfingers, luscious mascarpone cream, and fresh strawberry goodness. It combines the rich, creamy texture of mascarpone and whipped cream with the sweet-tart flavor of strawberries and strawberry pie filling, creating a refreshing and elegant treat perfect for any occasion. Chilled to perfection, this no-bake dessert is both easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Strawberry Mixture
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, roughly chopped
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 21 ounces strawberry pie filling
Mascarpone Cream
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 6 tablespoons vanilla instant pudding mix (a little less than one 3.4 ounce box)
- Additional ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted
Assembly
- 12 ounces ladyfingers
- Cooking spray for preparation
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Mixture: In a bowl, combine the chopped fresh strawberries with granulated sugar. Stir the mixture well and let it sit for 10 minutes to macerate. Afterward, mash the berries gently with a fork to release their juices.
- Add Strawberry Pie Filling: Stir the strawberry pie filling into the mashed strawberry mixture and set it aside for assembly.
- Whip the Cream: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whip the heavy whipping cream along with the vanilla extract on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the cream becomes frothy.
- Incorporate Sugar and Pudding Mix: Add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla instant pudding mix to the whipped cream. Continue to whip for an additional 3-4 minutes until stiff peaks form, indicating a firm and stable cream.
- Add Mascarpone Cheese: Fold in half of the mascarpone cheese gently to the whipped cream mixture to maintain airiness. Then add the remaining mascarpone cheese and mix on medium speed for about 4 minutes until fully combined and smooth.
- Prepare the Dish: Spray a 9×9 inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Soak Ladyfingers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the strawberry mixture just long enough to absorb some juice without becoming soggy. Place the soaked ladyfingers in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Layer Strawberry Mixture: Spread half of the reserved strawberry mixture evenly over the layer of ladyfingers.
- Layer Mascarpone Cream: Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the strawberry layer.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining strawberry mixture, and finish with the remaining mascarpone cream, spreading it smoothly.
- Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or enjoy plain as a rich and fruity dessert.
Notes
- Ensure ladyfingers are dipped very briefly to avoid sogginess.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- The dessert improves in flavor after chilling overnight.
- Vanilla instant pudding helps thicken the mascarpone cream layer for a stable texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with light whipping cream, though texture may vary.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
