Strawberry Tiramisu

Classic tiramisu gets a seasonal update in this fresh and fruity version made with juicy strawberries, a bright mascarpone filling, and ladyfingers soaked in a lightly sweet strawberry mixture. It’s everything you love about traditional tiramisu, just a little sunnier!

Whether you’re looking for a no-bake dessert for warm weather or a make-ahead option for spring or summer gatherings, this strawberry tiramisu delivers big flavor with simple prep. And since it’s egg-free, it’s also just a bit lighter and easier than the original.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Tiramisu

• Fresh, fruity flavor. Real strawberries bring bright, natural sweetness to every bite.
• Egg-free and no-bake. A simple mascarpone and whipped cream filling keeps it light and easy.
• Make-ahead friendly. Chill it in advance and let the flavors meld. Ideal for entertaining!
• Elegant but effortless. Layered desserts always feel special, and this one is surprisingly simple to assemble.

Key Ingredients

Let’s take a look at how the main players come together to make this strawberry tiramisu. For ingredient quantities and full instructions, see the recipe card below.

• Fresh strawberries – You’ll use these two ways: blended into the soak for the ladyfingers and sliced for layering. Choose ripe, flavorful berries for the best results.
• Ladyfingers (savoiardi) – These crisp cookies soften beautifully when dipped in the strawberry mixture, giving structure and a touch of texture to each layer.
• Mascarpone cheese – This rich, creamy cheese is the base of the filling and brings that signature tiramisu flavor. Let it come to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Heavy cream – Whipped to medium peaks and folded into the mascarpone for a light, airy texture.
• Confectioners’ sugar – Sweetens the filling without making it grainy.
• Lemon zest – Adds brightness and a subtle citrus note that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
• Rosé wine (optional) – Adds a fruity, slightly floral note to the soak. You can easily swap it out for a bit of water if you prefer to keep it alcohol-free.

How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu

• Blend the strawberry soak. Combine fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and rosé (if using) in a blender. Purée until smooth, then pour into a shallow bowl for dipping. This adds fruity flavor to every layer.
• Whip the cream. Beat the heavy cream to medium peaks. This gives the filling its light, fluffy texture. Stiff peaks can make the filling harder to spread and less smooth. Look for peaks that gently hold their shape when you lift the beaters.

• Make the mascarpone mixture. Stir together the mascarpone, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. If the mascarpone is too cold, it can become lumpy, so let it soften at room temperature for 15–20 minutes first. Then gently fold in the whipped cream to create a soft, creamy filling.

• Dip and layer. Ladyfingers absorb liquid quickly! A brief dip (just 1–2 seconds per side) keeps them from becoming mushy. Work in batches so they don’t get too soft while waiting to be layered. Arrange them in a single layer in your baking dish. Spread half the mascarpone filling on top, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
• Repeat. Gently spread the mascarpone mixture without pressing too hard, or you may shift the soaked ladyfingers underneath.
• Chill until set. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have time. The chilling time helps everything firm up and develop flavor. Overnight chilling is ideal if you can swing it, especially if you’re serving for a gathering.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

• Use up the extra soak. If you have leftover strawberry mixture, don’t toss it! Try spooning a little over each slice for extra berry flavor, or reduce it briefly on the stovetop for a quick sauce. It’s also delicious over yogurt, ice cream, lemon posset, pound cake, or even cheesecake.
• Make individual servings. Instead of a full dish, layer everything in small jars or glasses for single-serve treats. Great for parties or picnics!
• Skip the rosé. Prefer it alcohol-free? Just leave it out and use a splash of water in the soak.
• Top it your way. Add white chocolate shavings, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving for a pretty finish.

How to Store

• Refrigerate: Cover the tiramisu tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture will stay soft and creamy, and the flavors continue to develop as it rests.
• Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled tiramisu. Wrap the dish well in plastic and foil, or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Note that the texture may soften a bit after freezing, but it will still taste delicious.

Pretty, Easy, and So Delicious

If you love a classic tiramisu but want something a little lighter and brighter, this strawberry version is a must-try. It’s simple to make, beautiful to serve, and bursting with fresh fruit flavor. Whether you’re planning a get-together or just craving something no-bake and special, this one is always a hit.