The summer sun kissed my garden, and the strawberries were practically begging to be picked. That’s when I decided it was the perfect moment to whip up an Easy No-Bake Strawberry Tiramisu. This delightful dessert is a sweet escape from the ordinary, layering juicy strawberries, velvety mascarpone cream, and crisp ladyfingers into a tantalizing treat. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser that impresses with its vibrant colors and comforting textures, but it’s also a breeze to prepare ahead of time—perfect for those hot summer gatherings. Plus, if you’re looking for a kid-friendly option, simply swap out the orange liqueur for extra juice! Are you ready to dive into this no-bake wonder that will leave you and your guests craving more?

Why is Strawberry Tiramisu a Must-Try?

Deliciously Refreshing: This dessert is perfect for hot summer days, offering a light and fruity alternative to heavier treats.
No-Bake Convenience: With an easy prep process, you can save time and energy, allowing for more outdoor fun!
Kid-Friendly Twist: Substitute the orange liqueur with juice to make this a family favorite, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Visual Appeal: Layers of vibrant strawberries and creamy mascarpone create a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance, letting the flavors meld beautifully overnight—ideal for stress-free entertaining.

Strawberry Tiramisu Ingredients

For the Batter

Ladyfingers – Provide structure and a cake-like layer; available in grocery stores and online if not found.
Orange Juice – Adds moisture and enhances the flavor; fresh-squeezed is preferred, but bottled works too.
Orange Liqueur (Cointreau or Triple Sec) – Offers a fruity, complex flavor; can be replaced with more orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Mascarpone – This rich Italian cream cheese ensures a velvety texture; keep it at room temperature for easier mixing.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Whipped for lightness and aeration; chill the bowl before using for the best results.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream filling; be sure to sift before using to avoid clumps.
Strawberry Preserve – Enhances the strawberry flavor in the layers; a full jar (12-13 ounces) is ideal, or omit if necessary.
Strawberries – Fresh berries add great flavor and visual appeal; opt for ripe fruit for the best taste, frozen can be a last-minute alternative.

Feel free to grab these ingredients and get ready for an unforgettable summer dessert that captures the essence of juicy strawberries in every layer of your Strawberry Tiramisu!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Cream
In a large mixing bowl, combine room temperature mascarpone and sifted powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form—this takes about 3-5 minutes. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated, creating a light and fluffy filling for your Strawberry Tiramisu.

Step 2: Dip Ladyfingers
In a shallow dish, mix together the orange juice and half of the orange liqueur. Carefully dip each ladyfinger into this mixture for just a second—don’t let them soak! They should absorb some moisture but remain firm. This quick dip is crucial as it preserves their structure for layering into your Strawberry Tiramisu, ensuring a satisfying bite.

Step 3: Layering
Begin assembling your Strawberry Tiramisu in a rectangular dish. Lay the dipped ladyfingers side by side to form the first layer. Spread half of the creamy mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out with a spatula. Next, add half of the strawberry preserves in dollops across the cream layer, followed by a generous layer of sliced fresh strawberries, creating a beautiful burst of color and flavor.

Step 4: Repeat
Repeat the layering process by dipping more ladyfingers and placing them on top of the strawberries. Add the remaining mascarpone cream mixture, ensuring it’s spread evenly. Follow up with the rest of the strawberry preserves and a final layer of fresh strawberry slices. This two-layer construction enhances the overall texture and taste, making each bite of your Strawberry Tiramisu truly delightful.

Step 5: Final Touch
Drizzle the remaining orange liqueur over the top of your assembled Strawberry Tiramisu for an extra touch of flavor. Cover the dish with plastic wrap, pressing it gently against the surface of the dessert to minimize air exposure. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the dessert to set, making it easier to slice and serve later.

What to Serve with Easy No-Bake Strawberry Tiramisu

Elevate your summer gathering with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement this luscious dessert.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes provide a rich, buttery contrast to the light sweetness of your tiramisu.
Zesty Citrus Salad: A refreshing blend of oranges, grapefruit, and mint balances the dessert’s richness, adding a bright, tangy note.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: The smoky flavors of marinated chicken pair well, creating a satisfying savory counterpart to the sweet layers of your dessert.
Herbed Garlic Bread: Crunchy and aromatic, this bread makes for a delightful appetizer that prepares the palate for the sweet finish of your meal.
Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly, citrusy drink refreshes the senses, making each bite of the tiramisu feel even more vibrant and enjoyable.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: An irresistible treat that echoes the flavors in the tiramisu and adds an extra layer of indulgence for dessert lovers.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with strawberry sauce complements your dish’s fruity flavors while adding a luscious texture.
Light Cheesecake Bites: These mini desserts provide a delightful alternative while maintaining the essence of creaminess and sweetness that binds the meal together.

Strawberry Tiramisu Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Strawberry Tiramisu, adding your personal touch to this delightful dessert!

Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone with a coconut cream blend or a dairy-free cream cheese for a lighter dessert that still delights.
Flavor Fusion: Experiment with different fruit preserves—raspberry or peach are fantastic alternatives that add delightful new layers of flavor.
Chocolate Indulgence: Add a layer of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings between the mascarpone and strawberry layers for a heavenly chocolate-strawberry combination.
Herbal Twist: Infuse the cream filling with fresh mint or basil for a surprising and refreshing flavor profile that perfectly complements strawberries.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed almonds or hazelnuts between the layers for added texture and a delightful nutty dimension to each bite.
Spiced Delight: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or cardamom into the mascarpone filling or ladyfinger dipping liquid for an unexpected warm spice profile that surprises the palate.
Fruity Variations: Swap fresh strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or mango slices; the vibrant colors and flavors will make the dessert not only tasty but visually stunning.
Layered Bites: For a fun twist, create individual serving sizes in jars, layering the ingredients, so everyone gets their own personal Strawberry Tiramisu treat!

Feeling adventurous? You might also enjoy trying your hand at other delicious dessert options like the Red Velvet Strawberry, or perhaps the refreshing Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Tacos. Each of these recipes captures the sweetness of summer fruit beautifully!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Tiramisu

Fridge: Keep your Strawberry Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the delicious creamy texture and freshness of the strawberries.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tiramisu for up to 1 month. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: This dessert is best served cold. If you’ve frozen it, avoid reheating as it may alter the creamy consistency—just let it chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy.

Make-Ahead: Since this treat requires refrigeration to set, it’s perfect for making ahead! Prepare it a day in advance to allow all the flavors to come together beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Tiramisu are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal prep! You can assemble the entire dessert up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Prepare the layers of ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, strawberry preserves, and fresh strawberries, then cover tightly and refrigerate. This not only saves you time but also enhances the taste, making it just as delicious right after preparation as it is the next day. If you’re prepping further in advance, you can store assembled Strawberry Tiramisu for up to 3 days. Just remember to add the fresh strawberries on the day of serving for the best texture and flavor!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Tiramisu

Chill Overnight: Allowing the tiramisu to chill overnight enhances flavor melding, making every bite even more delightful and harmonious.
Quick Dipping: Dip ladyfingers quickly to retain their texture; they should be moist but still hold their shape—this prevents sogginess in the final dish.
Quality Matters: Opt for high-quality, ripe strawberries. They’re the star of this Strawberry Tiramisu, bringing both taste and vibrant color to the dessert.
Whip It Right: Ensure your heavy whipping cream is chilled before whipping. This helps achieve a fluffy texture that elevates your mascarpone filling.
Sift Your Sugar: Always sift powdered sugar before mixing to avoid clumps in the cream filling, ensuring a smooth, luscious consistency in your dessert.

Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely! When making Strawberry Tiramisu, it’s best to choose ripe strawberries. Look for those that are vibrant red, firm, and free of dark spots all over; these will provide the best flavor and visual appeal. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen can be used as a last-minute alternative.

How should I store leftover Strawberry Tiramisu?
You can keep your Strawberry Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

Can Strawberry Tiramisu be frozen?
Yes, it can! To freeze your Strawberry Tiramisu, first ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn; use plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight before serving.

What if my ladyfingers become soggy?
Very importantly, quick dipping is the key! When you dip the ladyfingers in the orange juice and liqueur mixture, make sure to only soak them for a brief moment—about 1-2 seconds—so they absorb the liquid without falling apart. This helps retain their structure, ensuring a delightful texture in each layer.

Is it safe for kids to eat Strawberry Tiramisu?
Absolutely! The traditional recipe often uses orange liqueur, but you can easily substitute this with additional orange juice to create a kid-friendly version. This way, everyone can enjoy the delicious layers without any concern!

Can I make any substitutions for the ingredients?
Certainly! If you can’t find mascarpone, a mix of cream cheese and butter works well as an alternative. For a lighter option, you can replace some heavy cream with whipped coconut cream. Additionally, you can switch up the strawberry preserves with other fruit preserves like raspberry or peach to add different flavors to your Strawberry Tiramisu.