Oh, Strawberry Shortcake Tiramisu! Just the name alone brings a smile to my face. This dessert is a delightful fusion of two classics: the buttery richness of traditional tiramisu and the light, fruity goodness of strawberry shortcake. I can’t help but remember the first time I made it for a family gathering. My cousin, who prides himself on being a dessert snob, took one bite and said, “Wow, you’ve outdone yourself!” Little did he know, it was the easiest thing I had whipped up!
What I love most about this recipe is how it manages to capture the essence of a summer picnic in every bite, making it perfect for any gathering or simply a sweet treat for yourself! Plus, it’s the kind of dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes, ensuring you’ve got a showstopper on your hands.
What’s in Strawberry Shortcake Tiramisu?
Let’s talk about the fabulous ingredients that come together to create this masterpiece:
Strawberries: Fresh, juicy strawberries are the star of this dish! I love using organic strawberries when they’re in season for the best flavor. Not only do they add sweetness, but they also give that vibrant pop of color.
Savoiardi (Ladyfingers): These light and airy cookies are perfect for soaking up the creamy mixture while holding their shape. If you can find them, I highly recommend the classic Italian brands, as they are a step above the rest!
Mascarpone Cheese: The creaminess of mascarpone is unmatched. Its rich texture is what makes tiramisu so decadent. If you can, opt for a full-fat version to achieve that luscious consistency.
Heavy Cream: This adds even more richness and helps to create a fluffy whipped topping. Whipping it up until soft peaks form really enhances the lightness of the dessert.
Milk: A splash of milk is used for soaking the ladyfingers. For an extra flavor twist, feel free to use almond or coconut milk!
Powdered Sugar: Just a bit of sweetness to complement the strawberries and mascarpone mixture. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of vanilla or almond extract can work wonders here.
Coffee or Espresso: Classic tiramisu usually features coffee, and while it may seem unusual, it pairs beautifully with strawberries. I like to use a strong brew for a deeper flavor.
Is Strawberry Shortcake Tiramisu Good for You?
Now, let’s get real for a moment. While Strawberry Shortcake Tiramisu packs a delicious punch, it’s certainly a treat rather than a health food.
Strawberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, but don’t forget that when mixed with mascarpone and sugar, the health benefits might take a back seat.
Mascarpone Cheese: It’s rich and creamy with a decent amount of fat. While it gives the dessert its luxurious texture, moderation is key here as it can be calorie-dense.
That said, you can definitely enjoy this dessert in smaller portions or even scale back on the sugar if you prefer. It’s all about balance!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup mascarpone cheese
– 2 cups strong coffee or espresso, cooled
– 1 cup milk
– ⅓ cup powdered sugar
– 1 package of ladyfingers (savoiardi)
– Optional: vanilla or almond extract (for flavoring)
This recipe serves about 8 people, and trust me, they won’t be able to resist second helpings!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Tiramisu?
1. Begin by washing and slicing your strawberries. Set them aside in a bowl and sprinkle a bit of sugar over them to draw out the juices. This also enhances their flavor!
2. In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream and use a whisk or electric mixer to whip it until soft peaks form. It’s like a mini workout, but totally worth it!
3. Add the mascarpone cheese to the whipped cream along with the powdered sugar and mix gently until everything is well combined, and it’s a dreamy cloud of goodness.
4. Now, grab your coffee or espresso and pour it into a shallow dish along with the milk. Feel free to add a splash of vanilla or almond extract here for an extra kick!
5. Dip each ladyfinger briefly in the coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them too long, or they’ll become mushy.
6. In a rectangular dish, layer the bottom with half of the soaked ladyfingers, then spread half of your mascarpone mixture on top. Layer half of the strawberries over that.
7. Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone mixture, and finish off with the last of the strawberries on top.
8. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Sweet Tips and Variations!
– If you want to change things up a bit, consider adding other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry twist.
– A touch of lemon zest in the mascarpone layer adds a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
– Feel free to make this gluten-free by using gluten-free ladyfingers.
I can’t express how excited I am for you to try this Strawberry Shortcake Tiramisu! It’s a perfect way to celebrate special occasions or even just a casual Wednesday. I guarantee, your family and friends will be raving about it for days to come. So go on, give it a whirl, and don’t forget to share your experience!