This tasty Strawberry Tiramisu puts a fruity twist on the classic treat. Layers of sweet strawberries and creamy filling make it refreshing and scrumptious!
I love how the citrus flavors brighten it up. It’s perfect for a light dessert after a big meal or just because! Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Strawberries: Strawberries bring sweetness and a lovely color. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen strawberries or other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.
Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy cheese is essential for that rich texture. If you’re in a pinch, cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream can work well, although it won’t have the same flavor.
Heavy Cream: Used for whipping, heavy cream adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using coconut cream or whipped topping, but it will change the taste slightly.
Ladyfinger Cookies: Ladyfingers are classic for tiramisu. If you can’t find them, sponge cake or even small pieces of pound cake can serve as a good substitute.
Coffee or Espresso: This is optional but adds a traditional depth. If you want to skip the caffeine, a bit of cocoa powder in orange juice can add richness without the coffee flavor.
How Do I Get the Cream Mixture Just Right?
Mixing the mascarpone and heavy cream properly is key to a fluffy tiramisu. Start by whisking the mascarpone cheese alone to smooth it out. Then gradually fold in the whipped heavy cream for lightness. Be gentle to keep the air in for a nice texture.
- Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form before adding it to the mascarpone.
- Use a spatula to fold, rather than stirring, to retain the volume.
- Mix until just combined; don’t overdo it to prevent the mixture from getting too dense.
How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Layers:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 package ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1/2 cup coffee or espresso, cooled (optional)
For the Cream Mixture:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Orange Mixture:
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
For Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries, for decoration
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Strawberry Tiramisu takes about 20 minutes to prepare and requires at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge. If you can plan ahead, letting it refrigerate overnight can enhance the flavors even more!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cream Mixture:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and add the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the mixture until it’s smooth and slightly thickened. This will be your creamy, dreamy filling.
2. Prepare the Orange Mixture:
In another bowl, combine the orange juice and orange zest. This fresh mixture will give your tiramisu a vibrant flavor. Stir it together and set it aside.
3. Assemble the Layers:
Now comes the fun part! Take each ladyfinger cookie and dip it briefly into the orange juice mixture (and coffee if you’re using it). Don’t soak them too long—they should be moist but not soggy. Lay them in a 9×9-inch dish or a similar sized serving dish as a base layer.
4. Add the Cream and Strawberries:
Spread a layer of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, being careful to cover them fully. Then, sprinkle a layer of the sliced strawberries on top. This will make your tiramisu colorful and delicious.
5. Repeat the Layering:
Continue the layering process by adding another set of dipped ladyfingers, followed by another layer of the mascarpone mixture, and a second layer of strawberries. You can build as many layers as the dish allows—just ensure you finish with the mascarpone mixture on top.
6. Chill the Tiramisu:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you prefer. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, take the tiramisu out of the fridge and garnish the top with fresh strawberries. It’s now ready to impress your family and friends! Enjoy this refreshing twist on traditional tiramisu!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if needed. Just be sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid before slicing to prevent your tiramisu from becoming soggy!
Is It Possible to Substitute Mascarpone Cheese?
Yes! If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute mascarpone with a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream (1 part cream cheese to 2 parts heavy cream) for a similar texture. However, keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative along with coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Just whip the coconut cream until fluffy, and combine it with sugar and vanilla for a deliciously creamy layer!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover strawberry tiramisu can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier, but it’s best enjoyed sooner for the freshest taste!
