Name: Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/3 cup strawberry jam; 3 Tablespoons water; 1 Tablespoon lemon juice; 8 ounces mascarpone cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 24 ladyfingers (Savoiardi brand recommended); 2 cups sliced strawberries

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 22 reviews

If you are craving a dessert that perfectly balances the richness of classic tiramisu with the bright, fresh flavors of summer, this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Imagine layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in a luscious strawberry sauce, cushioned by a dreamy mascarpone cream, and dotted with juicy fresh strawberries. It’s light, creamy, fruity, and utterly irresistible – a true crowd-pleaser that brings a special twist to a beloved Italian dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A flat lay of ingredients on a white marbled surface showing a clear bowl full of fresh red strawberries with green leaves in the center, a wrapped pack of beige ladyfingers with blue and red packaging below it, a white bowl with smooth white cream to the right, a glass measuring cup with white milk above it, a small clear bowl with white sugar, and another small clear bowl with red jam on the left. There is a small glass with amber liquid, a small glass with pale yellow liquid, a clear glass bowl with water, a whole bright yellow lemon, and a metal grater with lemon zest on it on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible balance of flavors and textures, from the tender ladyfingers to the fresh zing of lemon zest. Here’s everything you need:

24 ladyfingers: I love using Savoiardi brand for their perfect lightness and crunch.
2 cups sliced strawberries: Fresh and juicy, they bring vibrant color and natural sweetness.
1/3 cup strawberry jam: Adds concentrated strawberry flavor and helps create the soaking sauce.
3 Tablespoons water: Used to thin the jam into a delightful dipping sauce for the cookies.
1 Tablespoon lemon juice: Gives a fresh, tangy brightness that balances the sweetness.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Whipped into the mascarpone to create a luxuriously silky filling.
8 ounces mascarpone cheese: The creamy heart of tiramisu, rich and full-bodied.
1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone mixture just right without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon lemon zest: A little zest goes a long way for an extra fresh note in the creamy layer.

How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Sauce

Start by mixing together the strawberry jam, water, and lemon juice in a small bowl until everything is well combined. This sauce is the star liquid that will soak your ladyfingers to infuse them with juicy strawberry flavor, ensuring every bite bursts with brightness and moisture.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest for about two minutes. Your goal is to reach a thick and creamy consistency similar to whipped cream. This luscious filling is the luscious contrast to the fruity sauce and soft ladyfingers, adding an indulgent, velvety texture.

Step 3: Dip the Ladyfingers

Take each ladyfinger and briefly dip it into the strawberry sauce, one at a time. Be careful not to soak them too long – just a quick dunk to absorb enough flavor without turning soggy. Then, arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of an 8×8 inch square baking dish or something similar in size.

Step 4: Spread the First Layer

Now, spread half of the creamy mascarpone filling evenly over the layer of soaked ladyfingers. Next, scatter half of your fresh sliced strawberries on top of the cream. This combination of creamy and fresh layers builds the delicious complexity this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is famous for.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers

Repeat the entire process by dipping and laying down another layer of ladyfingers soaked in strawberry sauce, followed by the remaining mascarpone filling and fresh strawberries. This double layering takes the dessert to that perfect depth of flavor and texture you want.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Cover your masterpiece with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least eight hours. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, the ladyfingers to soften perfectly, and the cream to set to the right consistency for slicing and serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe

A square piece of dessert with three main layers sits on a white plate with soft curves. The bottom and middle layers are light tan, sponge-like cake soaked with cream, visible through soft, creamy white filling layers that have bits of red strawberries in them. The top layer is thick cream covered with many fresh, bright red strawberry slices arranged in a loose pile. A woman's hand holding a gold-colored fork rests behind the dessert on the plate. In the background, a white bowl filled with whole fresh strawberries sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When it’s time to serve, think fresh and elegant. Add a few whole strawberries on top for a burst of color, and maybe a sprinkle of lemon zest or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A few mint leaves can also add a refreshing herbaceous note that makes each serving feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp glass of sparkling prosecco or a light herbal tea. For a casual gathering, fresh fruit salad or buttery shortbread cookies are lovely accompaniments that won’t steal the spotlight but complement its flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow guests or create a pretty dessert bar? Serve this tiramisu in glass trifle bowls or individual clear cups to show off those gorgeous layers. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate or a touch of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch that elevates presentation and taste simultaneously.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe keep very well in the fridge. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the tiramisu. Wrap it carefully in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect against freezer burn. When ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture. While freezing may slightly change the texture of the fresh strawberries, the overall dessert remains delightful.

Reheating

Since tiramisu is meant to be enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, simply serve directly from the refrigerator for that cool, creamy experience that makes this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe such a refreshing dessert.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Fresh strawberries are best for this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe because they provide the right texture and sweetness. However, if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make your dessert soggy.

What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?

If mascarpone is hard to find, mixing cream cheese with a bit of heavy cream can be a decent substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor and texture. For the authentic Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe experience, mascarpone is the ideal choice.

How long can I make this tiramisu in advance?

This dessert actually benefits from some advance prep! Make it a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld, but no more than two days to keep the ladyfingers from getting overly soggy and the fresh strawberries at their best.

Can I make this recipe into individual servings?

Absolutely! Layer everything in small mason jars or individual ramekins. This makes for charming presentation and perfect portion control while keeping all the flavor magic of the Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe intact.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this dessert?

This Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is naturally non-alcoholic, which makes it great for all ages. It skips the traditional coffee and liqueur soaking in favor of a fruity strawberry sauce that everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe enough for anyone looking to impress with a dessert that feels both classic and fresh. With its wonderfully creamy layers, vibrant strawberry flavor, and simple preparation, it’s a treat you’ll want to make over and over. Give it a try soon – your sweet tooth and your guests will thank you!