Instructions:
1. Prepare the strawberries:
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Slice the fresh strawberries into thin slices, setting aside a few whole strawberries for garnish.
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In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with the sugar and lemon juice (optional). Stir gently and let them macerate for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juice.
2. Prepare the mascarpone cream:
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In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and well combined.
3. Prepare the ladyfingers:
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In a shallow dish, pour the strawberry juice released by the macerated strawberries. You can also add a splash of strawberry liqueur or limoncello for an extra touch of flavor.
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Quickly dip the savoiardi (ladyfingers) in the strawberry juice. Be careful not to soak them too long – just a quick dip will do, as they will absorb the liquid quickly.
4. Assemble the tiramisù:
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In a serving dish (or individual glasses), start by placing a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom.
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Spread a layer of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out evenly.
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Add a layer of the macerated strawberries, along with a few spoonfuls of the strawberry syrup.
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Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mascarpone cream on top.
5. Chill and set:
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Cover the tiramisù with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld together and for the dessert to firm up.
6. Garnish and serve:
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Just before serving, garnish the tiramisù with the sliced fresh strawberries and a few mint leaves for a touch of color and freshness.
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Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing, fruity version of the classic tiramisù!
Tips:
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Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar in the strawberry layer and mascarpone cream according to your preference and the sweetness of your strawberries.
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Alternative fruits: If strawberries are not in season, you can make this recipe with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
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Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. It’s best served within a day or two for optimal freshness.
Variations:
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Alcohol-free: If you want to keep it alcohol-free, just skip the liqueur and use the natural strawberry juice for soaking the ladyfingers.
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Vegan version: To make a vegan tiramisù, you can substitute the mascarpone cheese with a non-dairy version (such as coconut-based mascarpone), and use plant-based whipped cream and ladyfingers.
Tiramisù alle Fragole is a delightful, light, and fruity take on the classic Italian dessert, perfect for warm-weather gatherings or any occasion where you want to treat yourself to something sweet and refreshing. Enjoy!
