Strawberry Tiramisu Cups Recipe
If you love the elegance of classic tiramisu but crave something fresh and fruity, these Strawberry Tiramisu Cups are the perfect dessert to wow your guests or indulge yourself. Imagine silky mascarpone cream layered with vibrant strawberry purée and delicate ladyfingers, creating a beautiful harmony of creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors. These no-bake cups are not only a breeze to assemble but also deliver a refreshing twist on traditional Italian tiramisu that’s bursting with seasonal goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making these Strawberry Tiramisu Cups a standout treat. Each component plays a crucial role, from the lush mascarpone offering rich creaminess to the fresh strawberries adding a bright, lively contrast.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped to airy perfection, it gives the dessert a light and fluffy texture.
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese: The heart of tiramisu, adding that signature smooth and decadent richness.
- ¼ cup sugar: Sweetens the cream mixture just right without overpowering the natural fruit flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Boosts the creaminess with subtle warmth and depth.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, puréed: Infuses the dessert with vibrant color and fresh berry flavor.
- 12 ladyfingers, broken in halves: Provides a light, crunchy texture that soaks up the strawberry purée beautifully.
- Fresh strawberries for topping: Adds a charming garnish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu Cups
Step 1: Whip the Cream and Mascarpone
Begin by gently whipping together the heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until you achieve soft, fluffy peaks. This creates the luscious mascarpone cream layer that’s essential for the creamy mouthfeel of your Strawberry Tiramisu Cups.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Purée
Puree the fresh strawberries until smooth and vibrant. This purée adds a natural sweetness and gorgeous pink hue that complements the cream. Keep some extra strawberries whole or halved for the topping later.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Start by spooning a generous layer of strawberry purée into the bottom of your serving glasses. Next, add a dollop of the mascarpone cream. Then dip the ladyfingers briefly into the strawberry purée to soften them and add flavor, placing a layer of these soaked biscuits on top of the cream. Continue layering in this order—purée, cream, ladyfingers—until the glasses are filled.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Once assembled, cover the cups and refrigerate them for at least two hours. This chilling time is key for the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften perfectly, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth tiramisu texture.
How to Serve Strawberry Tiramisu Cups
Garnishes
Fresh strawberries sliced or whole atop each cup add an inviting and colorful finish. You can also add a sprig of mint for a pop of green and subtle refreshing aroma. A light dusting of powdered sugar is another elegant option to elevate their presentation.
Side Dishes
Strawberry Tiramisu Cups shine on their own but pair wonderfully with crisp, refreshing accompaniments like a citrus salad or lightly sweetened iced tea. For a more indulgent spread, serve alongside almond biscotti or a scoop of fresh gelato to keep the Italian dessert theme going strong.
Creative Ways to Present
These cups look stunning layered in clear glasses or even vintage teacups to impress your guests. Try layering them in mason jars for a rustic picnic vibe or serve mini versions in shot glasses for a party-friendly bite. For a twist, add a layer of crushed pistachios or white chocolate shavings between layers for extra texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, the Strawberry Tiramisu Cups keep beautifully covered in the fridge for up to two days. This makes them an ideal make-ahead dessert for gatherings, as the flavors only improve while chilling.
Freezing
Freezing these cups is not recommended since the mascarpone cream and strawberries can become watery and separate upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh for maximum texture and flavor.
Reheating
This dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating. Simply remove from the fridge when ready to enjoy and perhaps let sit for a few minutes to soften slightly if you prefer a less chilled bite.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the purée?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well when fresh ones are out of season. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before pureeing to avoid watering down your dessert.
Is there a non-dairy substitute for mascarpone?
For a dairy-free version, try using a coconut cream and vegan cream cheese blend. The texture won’t be identical but will still provide creamy richness that complements the strawberry purée.
How long should I soak the ladyfingers?
Quickly dip the ladyfingers no longer than 1-2 seconds into the strawberry purée. They should be moist but not soggy, as they will soften further during chilling.
Can I make these cups ahead of time for a party?
Yes! These Strawberry Tiramisu Cups are perfect for making a few hours or even a day in advance. Just keep them covered and refrigerated until serving to preserve freshness and texture.
What if I don’t have ladyfingers?
If ladyfingers aren’t available, you can substitute with sponge cake or pound cake slices. Just be sure to cut them into appropriate sizes and soak briefly in the strawberry purée before layering.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Tiramisu Cups offer a delightful and sophisticated way to enjoy the flavors of Italy with a fresh twist. They’re easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to brighten any occasion with their creamy layers and vibrant strawberry burst. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a new favorite in your dessert rotation.
