Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that combines the classic Italian tiramisu with the sweet, summery essence of strawberry shortcake. This isn't just another dessert – it's a decadent masterpiece that will transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Imagine layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and fresh strawberries dancing together in perfect harmony, creating a dessert so irresistible that your guests will be begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup coffee, cooled
- 1 package ladyfinger cookies
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the strawberries. Rinse them under cold water, then remove the green tops and slice them into thin pieces. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it forms soft peaks. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overbeat, as you want a smooth and creamy texture.
- Once the cream mixture is ready, gently fold in half of the sliced strawberries, being careful to maintain the light and airy texture of the whipped cream.
- Next, prepare the coffee. Brew a strong cup of coffee and allow it to cool completely. You can add a bit of sugar to the coffee if you prefer it sweeter.
- Take a ladyfinger cookie and quickly dip it into the cooled coffee. Make sure to soak it lightly; you don’t want it to become too soggy. Place the dipped ladyfinger in a rectangular serving dish or individual dessert glasses.
- Continue dipping and layering the ladyfingers in the dish until you have a single layer at the bottom.
- Once the first layer of ladyfingers is complete, spread half of the mascarpone and whipped cream mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
- Next, add another layer of dipped ladyfingers on top of the cream mixture, repeating the process of dipping each ladyfinger in coffee before placing it in the dish.
- After the second layer of ladyfingers, spread the remaining mascarpone and whipped cream mixture over the top, smoothing it out gently.
- Finally, garnish the top with the remaining sliced strawberries, arranging them in a decorative pattern.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set.
- When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator, slice into portions, and enjoy your Ultimate Strawberry Shortcake Tiramisu!
Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the most intense flavor. Look for berries that are deep red and fragrant.
- When whipping the cream mixture, stop beating as soon as soft peaks form to maintain a light, airy texture.
- Don't over-soak the ladyfingers – a quick dip in coffee is enough to add flavor without making them mushy.
- For best results, refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use high-quality mascarpone cheese for the richest, creamiest texture.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar or use unsweetened coffee for dipping.
- For a beautiful presentation, arrange the strawberry slices in a decorative pattern on top just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
