The Ultimate Strawberries and Cream Tiramisu Recipe: Your New Summer Showstopper!

Hello, WiseRecipes readers and fellow creators of exceptionally delicious and beautifully impressive desserts! Are you ready for a dessert that will make everyone say, “Step aside, strawberry shortcake—this strawberries & cream tiramisu is taking over!“? Today, I’m beyond thrilled to share my Ultimate Strawberries and Cream Tiramisu recipe – a luscious, layered delight that’s perfect for all your summer gatherings.

Imagine delicate ladyfingers, uniquely soaked not in coffee, but in a delightful mixture of heavy cream and our Food Team’s secret ingredient: triple sec (yes, that orange liqueur!). These are then layered with a rich, velvety mascarpone cream and a vibrant, sweet strawberry mixture. This easy no bake strawberry tiramisu recipe for potlucks is made in family-sized 13″ x 9″ tiramisu fashion, making it the perfect easy dessert to make for all your summer potlucks. It’s the best summer berry tiramisu with triple sec ladyfingers you can imagine!

My journey to perfecting this Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe was all about creating a fresh, fruity, and elegant alternative to the classic coffee-flavored version. We’ll cover how to make a creamy strawberries and cream dessert without coffee that’s both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple to assemble. This is your go-to for a quick family sized strawberry tiramisu recipe.

So, if you’re ready to create a flavorful layered ladyfinger dessert with strawberries and cream that will wow your guests and become your new signature summer treat, let’s get layering this amazing Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe!

Why This Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu Will Be the Star of Every Potluck

If “secret ingredient: triple sec” hasn’t already intrigued you, here’s why this Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe is simply divine:

• Unique & Refreshing Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy mascarpone, and a hint of citrusy Triple Sec in the ladyfinger soak is a delightful departure from traditional tiramisu. This is the heart of our Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe.
• Lusciously Creamy & Light: The mascarpone cream is rich yet airy, perfectly complementing the soft ladyfingers and juicy strawberries.
• No-Bake Ease: This impressive dessert requires no baking, making it perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. An truly easy no bake strawberry tiramisu recipe for potlucks.
• Perfect for a Crowd: Made in a 9×13 inch dish, it’s generously sized to serve a group.
• Visually Stunning Layers: The beautiful layers of white cream, golden ladyfingers, and red strawberries make for an incredibly appealing presentation.
• Make-Ahead Marvel: Tiramisu is one of those magical desserts that actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.
• Sophisticated Yet Simple: It looks and tastes like a gourmet creation but is surprisingly straightforward to assemble.

Gather Your Sweet & Creamy Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Let’s get our delightful components ready for this show-stopping Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe.

Key Ingredients (For a 9×13 inch dish):

• Ladyfingers (Savoiardi biscuits): 2 packages (approx. 7 oz or 200g each, about 48-60 cookies total).
• Heavy Cream (for soaking ladyfingers): 1 cup.
• Triple Sec (Orange Liqueur): ¼ cup. This is our Food Team secret ingredient! For a non-alcoholic version, use orange juice with a splash of orange extract.

For the Creamy Mascarpone Filling:

• Mascarpone Cheese: 16 oz (two 8-oz containers), at room temperature.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (for filling): 2 cups, very cold.
• Granulated Sugar (or Powdered Sugar for smoother): ¾ cup to 1 cup (adjust to taste).
• Vanilla Extract (Pure): 2 teaspoons.
• Large Egg Yolks (Optional, for richness & authentic texture – use pasteurized if concerned): 3-4.

For the Strawberry Mixture:

• Fresh Strawberries: 2 lbs, hulled and sliced (reserve some whole or halved for garnish).
• Granulated Sugar: ¼ to ½ cup (adjust based on strawberry sweetness).
• Fresh Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon.
• Strawberry Jam or Preserves (Good Quality, Optional): ¼ cup, for extra strawberry intensity.
• Red Food Coloring Powder or Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder (Optional): For dusting the top, as seen in image.

Layering Your Luscious Masterpiece: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s create this incredible Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe!

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

1. Macerate Strawberries: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced fresh strawberries with ¼ to ½ cup of granulated sugar (start with less) and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Stir carefully to coat.
2. Let Juices Release: Let the strawberries sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. They will release their delicious juices, creating a natural syrup. This is crucial for the flavor of your Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe.
3. Optional Jam Boost: If using, gently warm the strawberry jam or preserves in the microwave for a few seconds until just pourable. You can stir this into the macerated strawberries after they’ve released their juices for a richer sauce and deeper color. Set aside.

Step 2: Create the Luscious Mascarpone Cream Filling

1. Beat Egg Yolks & Sugar (If Using Yolks): If using egg yolks, in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method, ensure bowl doesn’t touch water), whisk the egg yolks and ¾ – 1 cup of sugar constantly until the mixture is pale, thick, and warm to the touch (about 160°F/71°C on a thermometer, if you have one). This step cooks the yolks. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
   • If not using egg yolks, you can skip this heating step and combine sugar directly with mascarpone later, perhaps using powdered sugar for a smoother no-cook result.
2. Beat Mascarpone: In a separate large mixing bowl, gently beat the room temperature mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer on low speed until just smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overbeat mascarpone, as it can curdle.
3. Combine Mascarpone with Yolk Mixture (If Used): If you used the egg yolk/sugar mixture, gently fold the cooled yolk mixture into the smooth mascarpone cheese until just combined.
4. Whip Heavy Cream: In another large, chilled bowl, pour in the 2 cups of very cold heavy whipping cream. Add the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer, starting on low and gradually increasing to medium-high, until stiff peaks form. If you didn’t use egg yolks and are using granulated sugar, you can add it here while whipping the cream.
5. Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture (or mascarpone/yolk mixture) in a few additions until just combined and no streaks remain. The goal is a light, airy, yet stable cream for your Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe. Do not overmix. This is how to make a creamy strawberries and cream dessert without coffee shine.

Step 3: Assemble Your No-Bake Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu

1. Prepare Ladyfinger Soak: In a shallow dish, combine the 1 cup of heavy cream and ¼ cup of Triple Sec (or orange juice/extract).
2. First Ladyfinger Layer: Working one at a time, briefly dip each ladyfinger (just a quick 1-2 second dip per side – don’t let them get soggy!) into the cream-Triple Sec mixture. Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single, snug layer covering the bottom of a 9×13 inch glass baking dish. You may need to break some to fit.
3. First Strawberry Layer: Spoon about half of the macerated strawberry mixture, including some of that glorious syrup, evenly over the ladyfinger layer.
4. First Mascarpone Cream Layer: Spread about half of the prepared mascarpone cream filling evenly over the strawberry layer.
5. Repeat Layers: Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, the remaining strawberry mixture, and finally, the remaining mascarpone cream, spreading it smoothly or creating gentle swirls on top. This layering is key to the best summer berry tiramisu with triple sec ladyfingers.

Step 4: Chill to Perfection (The Hardest Part – Waiting!)

1. Cover & Chill: Cover the assembled Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe loosely with plastic wrap.
2. Minimum Chill Time: Refrigerate for at least 6-8 hours, but preferably overnight or up to 24 hours. This chilling time is absolutely essential! It allows the ladyfingers to soften into a cake-like texture, the flavors to meld beautifully, and the entire dessert to set into a sliceable, dreamy consistency. This makes it a perfect quick family sized strawberry tiramisu recipe to prepare ahead.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Your Showstopping Dessert!

1. Garnish Just Before Serving: Right before you’re ready to serve, decorate the top of your Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe. A generous dusting of red food coloring powder or freeze-dried strawberry powder (as seen in the inspiration image) looks stunning. You can also arrange fresh strawberry slices or halves and mint sprigs artfully on top.
2. Slice and Serve: Slice into squares using a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for the neatest presentation. Serve chilled and prepare for the oohs and aahs!

Wise Tips for the Most Heavenly Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu

Achieve dessert nirvana with these tips for your Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe:

• Don’t Oversoak Ladyfingers: A very quick dip is all they need. Soggy ladyfingers will result in a mushy tiramisu.
• Room Temperature Mascarpone: Ensures it blends smoothly without becoming lumpy or curdling.
• Cold Heavy Cream for Whipping: Essential for achieving stable, stiff peaks in your whipped cream. Chill your bowl and beaters too!
• Gentle Folding is Key: When combining the mascarpone and whipped cream, fold gently to maintain that light, airy texture.
• Patience with Chilling: This cannot be stressed enough! The long chilling time is what transforms the components into a cohesive, sliceable dessert. Don’t rush your Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe.
• Quality Strawberries & Liqueur: The flavor of your fresh strawberries and the Triple Sec (or good orange juice) will really shine through.
• Use Pasteurized Eggs (If Concerned): If using the optional egg yolks and are concerned about raw eggs, look for pasteurized eggs. The double boiler method for the yolks and sugar also helps to cook them gently.

Delicious Variations & Creative Touches

This Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe is a dream, but here are some ideas:

• Mixed Berry Tiramisu: Use a combination of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries in the fruit layer.
• Lemon-Kissed Cream: Add the zest of one lemon to the mascarpone cream filling for an extra bright, citrusy note.
• Different Liqueur Soak: Experiment with other fruit liqueurs like Chambord (raspberry) or even a splash of Grand Marnier instead of Triple Sec.
• Chocolate Strawberry Tiramisu: Dust with cocoa powder instead of strawberry powder, or add a layer of finely grated dark chocolate between the cream and ladyfingers.
• Individual Tiramisu Cups: Layer all the components in individual glasses or small trifle bowls for elegant single servings. Perfect for a flavorful layered ladyfinger dessert with strawberries and cream.

Storing Your Luscious Layered Dessert

Keep your Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe tasting its heavenly best:

• Storage: This dessert MUST be stored, covered tightly with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator due to the cream and mascarpone.
• Shelf Life: It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and texture. The ladyfingers will continue to soften over time.
• Freezing (Possible, with Texture Changes): While traditional tiramisu can sometimes be frozen, the fresh strawberry component here might make the texture a bit watery upon thawing. If you do freeze, do so before adding the final powder dusting or delicate fresh fruit garnishes. Wrap very well. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu Recipe

Your common questions about this delightful no-bake dessert:

1. Can I make this Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe without alcohol (Triple Sec)?
   Yes, absolutely! Substitute the Triple Sec in the ladyfinger soak with an equal amount of orange juice (preferably fresh or good quality), or even just use all heavy cream with a ½ teaspoon of orange extract for flavor.
2. What if I can’t find mascarpone cheese?
   Mascarpone provides a unique richness and mild sweetness. In a pinch, you can try substituting with full-fat cream cheese that has been beaten very well until light and fluffy, perhaps with an extra tablespoon or two of heavy cream and a little less sugar to compensate for cream cheese’s tanginess. The texture and flavor will be slightly different from this classic Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe.
3. Are ladyfingers (Savoiardi) hard to find?
   Most larger grocery stores carry them, usually in the cookie aisle, international foods section, or sometimes near the coffee and tea.
4. My mascarpone cream seems a bit runny. What can I do?
   Ensure your heavy cream was whipped to truly stiff peaks. Also, make sure your mascarpone was at room temperature but not warm, and that you folded the whipped cream in gently without overmixing. Chilling thoroughly for the full recommended time is also critical for setting.
5. How do I get such clean layers like in the picture?
   Spread each layer as evenly as possible. When adding the mascarpone cream, dollop it over the fruit/ladyfingers and then gently spread with an offset spatula to avoid disturbing the layer beneath. Chilling thoroughly before slicing with a hot, clean knife is also key for this Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe.

This Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe is a truly elegant and delightful easy no bake strawberry tiramisu recipe for potlucks that will make any summer gathering feel extra special. It’s a best summer berry tiramisu with triple sec ladyfingers that proves you don’t need coffee to make an unforgettable tiramisu. Learning how to make a creamy strawberries and cream dessert without coffee like this will add a stunning dessert to your repertoire.

I am so excited for you to create this beautiful, family-sized treat! If you make this Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu recipe, please come back and share your heavenly creations and thoughts in the comments below! Did it steal the show at your potluck? Happy layering!