Easy Strawberry Tiramisu: A Sweet Summer Spin on the Classic

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strawberry-tiramisu.-Top-layer-is-smooth-cream-garnished-with-halved-strawberries

Introduction

Move over espresso—there’s a new tiramisu in town, and she’s fruity, creamy, and perfect for warm-weather desserts. Easy Strawberry Tiramisu ditches the coffee in favor of juicy strawberries, whipped cream, and tangy cream cheese for a no-bake treat that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

Whether you’re prepping for a backyard BBQ, Mother’s Day brunch, or just want to impress someone with minimal effort, this strawberry-forward twist on tiramisu has your back.

A guide on the history of tiramisu

Why You’ll Love This Easy Strawberry Tiramisu

Imagine layers of fresh macerated strawberries, smooth cream cheese whip, and softened ladyfingers soaked in a homemade strawberry sauce. It’s like cheesecake and shortcake had a no-bake baby—and she’s a crowd-pleaser.

No oven, no fuss, just fresh flavor in every creamy bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 3 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled, divided
  • 7 tablespoons white sugar, divided (adjust to taste)
  • 2 lemons, juiced, divided
  • 2 tablespoons water (optional, for sauce consistency)
  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • ½ package ladyfinger cookies (or more as needed)
ingredients-for-strawberry-tiramisu

How to Make Strawberry Tiramisu (Step-by-Step)

1. Macerate the strawberries

Reserve a few whole strawberries for garnish. Slice the rest, and in a bowl, toss with 2 tablespoons of sugar and juice from 1 lemon. Set aside to macerate—this helps the berries release their sweet juices.

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2. Make the strawberry sauce

Blend the remaining strawberries with 2½ tablespoons sugar and the juice from the second lemon. Pour into a small saucepan and cook over low heat for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened. Add water if needed to thin or more sugar for sweetness. Let it cool completely.

Strawberry-puree

3. Make the cream layer

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with the remaining 2½ tablespoons sugar until smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Fold whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture—this is your dreamy filling.

4. Assemble the tiramisu

In a square glass baking dish, arrange ladyfingers in a single, snug layer. Pour half the strawberry sauce over them. Spread half the cream cheese mixture, then spoon over half the macerated strawberries. Repeat with remaining ladyfingers, sauce, and strawberries. Finish with a final layer of cream mixture.

Mid-assembly-shot-of-ladyfingers-in-a-dish-topped-with-strawberry-

5. Chill and garnish

Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Garnish with reserved strawberries before serving.

From My Table to Yours

The first time I made this Strawberry Tiramisu, it was a last-minute idea for a summer potluck. I didn’t have mascarpone—or time—but I had strawberries, cream cheese, and ladyfingers. What came out was magic. Light, luscious, and gone in minutes.

Tips for Tiramisu Success

  • Use ripe, sweet strawberries. The fresher the better!
  • Don’t skip the chill time. It helps the flavors meld and the ladyfingers soften just right.
  • Want it lighter? Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese.

FAQs About Strawberry Tiramisu

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well before using, and expect a softer texture.

Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s better made the night before.

Can I replace cream cheese with mascarpone?
Yes! It’ll be even silkier and closer to traditional tiramisu texture.

Can I add liqueur?
Sure! A splash of limoncello or strawberry liqueur in the sauce adds a fun grown-up twist.

Final Thoughts: Make Strawberry Tiramisu Your Summer Go-To

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as effortless as it is impressive, Easy Strawberry Tiramisu checks every box. It’s no-bake, packed with fresh berry flavor, and comes together in under 30 minutes (plus chill time). Whether you’re sharing it at a picnic, potluck, or just treating yourself on a Tuesday, it’s guaranteed to wow without the stress.

So go ahead—grab those strawberries, layer up some love, and let your fridge do the rest. Dessert, done right.

Looking for More No-Bake Summer Desserts?