As the sun warms the air and summer fruits burst with flavor, I find myself craving something a bit different and refreshingly sweet. Enter my version of Strawberry Tiramisu, a delightful twist on the beloved classic. Instead of the usual coffee and chocolate, this dreamy dessert showcases the vibrant tastes of strawberries and oranges, creating a no-bake treasure that’s perfect for warm days. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with creamy mascarpone and luscious ladyfingers soaking in the fruity puree. It’s not just a crowd-pleaser but also a truly light indulgence that feels like sunshine on a plate. Ready to impress your friends or just treat yourself? Let’s dive into the sweet details of this delightful recipe!

Why is Strawberry Tiramisu so special?

Unique Twist: This recipe reinvents the classic tiramisu with bright strawberries and zesty orange, delivering unparalleled summer freshness.

No-Bake Delight: Perfect for those warm days, it’s a breeze to prep without turning on the oven!

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at gatherings, serving this beautiful dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Versatile Flavor: Feel free to experiment with other berries or even try a twist with lemony limoncello for a refreshing zing.

Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip this up with confidence, just like my Strawberry Shortcake Whipped or Pineapple Strawberry Swirled.

Get ready to impress with minimal effort!

Strawberry Tiramisu Ingredients

For the Fruit Puree
• Fresh Strawberries – Adds the essential sweetness and freshness; you can substitute with raspberries or blueberries for a fun twist.
• Orange Liqueur (Cointreau or Grand Marnier) – Enhances the citrus flavor; feel free to use another citrus liqueur or omit it for a non-alcoholic version.
• Orange Juice – Infuses acidity and brightness; lemon juice can work as a tart substitute.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the puree; adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences.

For the Mascarpone Mixture
• Granulated Sugar (for tiramisu) – Further sweetens the mascarpone layer; tweak to your liking.
• Egg Yolks – Provides richness and structure; for safety, consider using cooked zabaglione instead of raw.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a light, airy texture in the mascarpone layer.
• Mascarpone Cheese – Ensures that creamy, dreamy consistency we love; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Orange Zest – Adds an aromatic twist and enhances the dessert’s overall flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor complexity, making the dish truly divine.

For Assembly
• Crispy Ladyfingers (Savoiardi) – Essential for structure; ensure you use the dry version to soak up the strawberry puree beautifully.
• Strawberry Preserves – Contributes an extra layer of sweetness and fruit flavor; you can substitute with strawberry jam if needed.

Dive into the cheerful flavors of this Strawberry Tiramisu, a refreshing summer dessert that brings joy to every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare Strawberry Puree
Begin by slicing fresh strawberries and placing them in a bowl. Add orange liqueur, orange juice, and sugar, then let the mixture stand for about 15 minutes to release the juices. After resting, blend a portion of the strawberries with strawberry preserves until smooth, then gently fold this puree back into the remaining strawberries to create a vibrant, chunky mix.

Step 2: Make Mascarpone Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat together granulated sugar and egg yolks until the mixture is pale and creamy, about 5 minutes. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the egg mixture, combining with mascarpone cheese, orange zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and airy, creating a luscious filling for the Strawberry Tiramisu.

Step 3: Layer the Tiramisu
In a rectangular baking pan, start by spreading a layer of the prepared strawberry puree evenly across the bottom. Quickly dip the crispy ladyfingers in the remaining strawberry puree and layer them over the fruit mixture. Next, scoop half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out gently. Repeat the layering process, finishing with the remaining mascarpone mixture on top for a beautiful finish.

Step 4: Chill
Cover the assembled Strawberry Tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, ideally overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften, creating a creamy, delightful texture that’s essential for this refreshing summer dessert.

Step 5: Serve
Once chilled, remove the Strawberry Tiramisu from the refrigerator. Carefully slice and serve chilled portions, garnishing each serving with additional sliced strawberries for a burst of color and freshness. This elegant dessert is sure to impress your guests while delivering the delightful flavors of summer in every spoonful.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Tiramisu

Fridge: Store your Strawberry Tiramisu in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping it covered will maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the tiramisu for up to 1 month. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.
Thawing: To serve frozen Strawberry Tiramisu, transfer it to the fridge and allow it to thaw overnight before serving.
Reheating: Since this dessert is best enjoyed chilled and doesn’t require heating, simply slice, garnish, and serve cold for that refreshing taste!

Make Ahead Options

Strawberry Tiramisu is a superb choice for meal prep, allowing you to whip it up ahead of time and free your schedule for other tasks! You can prepare the strawberry puree and mascarpone mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh flavors. To keep the ladyfingers from getting too soggy, layer them just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, assemble the tiramisu by layering the elements and letting it chill for at least 8 hours more, or overnight. This ensures each bite stays just as delightful and refreshing, making it a perfect, stress-free dessert for busy weeknights!

Strawberry Tiramisu Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Strawberry Tiramisu with these delightful twists that playfully dance on your palate. Let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Lemon Liqueur: Swap out orange liqueur for limoncello for a zesty lemony twist that brightens every bite.
Fruit Fusion: Feel free to mix different fruits; swap strawberries for peaches or blueberries for a unique flavor twist every time. Experiment with layering other berries for a colorful and delicious treat!
Vegan Alternative: Use coconut cream and a vegan substitute for mascarpone to create a plant-based version that’ll impress everyone, no matter their dietary preferences.
Less Sweet: For a less sweet option, cut down on the sugar in the mascarpone mixture and use fresh fruit for natural sweetness. You can even try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for subtle sweetness!
Crunchy Texture: Mix in some crushed nuts or granola in between layers for an unexpected crunchy element that adds texture and depth to your tiramisu.
Herbal Elegance: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or mint leaves to the strawberry puree for a refreshing herbal note that beautifully complements the sweetness.
Chilled Sorbet Side: Serve with a scoop of lemon or orange sorbet on the side for a bright, refreshing accompaniment that elevates the whole dessert experience.

For more delicious flavor inspirations, check out my Strawberry Banana Pudding or give my refreshing Strawberry Matcha Overnight a try!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Tiramisu

Use Dry Ladyfingers: Ensure to use dry ladyfingers (Savoiardi) for optimal absorption. Wet ladyfingers can turn soggy, ruining your Strawberry Tiramisu’s texture.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the strawberry puree before layering. You can adjust the sugar to get the perfect sweetness that suits your palate.
Chill Wisely: Letting your Strawberry Tiramisu rest overnight in the fridge allows flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t rush this step for the best results!
Optional Zest: Adding extra orange zest to the mascarpone layer can elevate the citrus flavor. Just a teaspoon makes a delicious difference!
Consider Zabaglione: If you’re concerned about using raw eggs, whip up a quick zabaglione with egg yolks and sugar for safety while still keeping richness.
Serve with Style: Garnish each slice with fresh strawberry slices or a mint sprig for an appealing presentation that’s eye-catching and appetizing!

What to Serve with Strawberry Tiramisu

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this refreshing treat with a few complementary flavors and textures.

Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or blueberries bring vibrant color and a burst of freshness, enhancing the dessert’s fruity notes.
Citrusy Sorbet: The cool tang of lemon or orange sorbet makes for a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate beautifully between each creamy bite.
Mint Garnish: A sprig of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also infuses a fragrant aroma, enhancing the entire tasting experience.
Classic Biscotti: The crunchy texture of almond or hazelnut biscotti provides a delightful companion that adds a touch of elegance to your dessert course.
Iced Tea or Sparkling Water: Serve this tiramisu with a glass of lightly sweetened iced tea or sparkling water with fresh lemon for a refreshing drink that complements the dessert’s sweetness.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Moscato can enhance the flavors of strawberry and orange, making every spoonful feel more indulgent.

Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting fresh strawberries?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, have a nice sheen, and are firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots all over or soft spots, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh strawberries should also have their green caps still attached, which signifies freshness.

How should I store leftover Strawberry Tiramisu?
For optimal enjoyment, store your Strawberry Tiramisu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s essential to keep it covered to retain moisture and prevent it from picking up other flavors from the fridge.

Can I freeze Strawberry Tiramisu for later?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 1 month! To do this, wrap the finished tiramisu tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight before serving.

What if my mascarpone mixture is too runny?
If you find that your mascarpone mixture is runny, try chilling it briefly in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. Additionally, ensure that the heavy whipping cream is whipped to stiff peaks and is fully incorporated into the mascarpone. If all else fails, you can fold in a bit more whipped cream to thicken it up!

Are there any dietary considerations I should take into account?
Great question! If you have any concerns about raw eggs, consider using pasteurized eggs or opt for making a zabaglione as a safer alternative. For those with dairy allergies, you can try substituting with coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese for the mascarpone.

Can I use a different fruit or flavor twist instead?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute strawberries with other fruits such as peaches or blueberries for a variation. You can also switch the orange liqueur with limoncello for a zesty lemon twist. The more, the merrier when it comes to experimenting with flavors!