Embrace the sweetness of the season with our Strawberry and Whipped Cream Tiramisu, a delightful reinterpretation of the beloved classic that integrates the first strawberries of the season into its creamy, dreamy layers. This version, perfect for a 40 x 20cm dish, combines creamy mascarpone or rich cream cheese with fresh strawberries, dipped ladyfingers, and a silky layer of whipped cream, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder for an irresistible dessert.
Why You'll Love This:
This tiramisu variant is a celebration of seasonal flavors, offering a fresh and fruity take on the traditional coffee and cocoa dessert. The addition of strawberries brings a sweet, tangy contrast to the rich and creamy layers, making it a perfect dessert for spring and summer gatherings. Its beautiful layers make for a visually impressive presentation that's as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Perfect Occasion:
This Strawberry and Whipped Cream Tiramisu is ideal for any celebration or gathering, especially during strawberry season. It's a refreshing choice for picnics, barbecues, or any event where a light yet decadent dessert is desired. It's also a fantastic way to impress your guests at dinner parties with its elegant appearance and exquisite taste.
Decoration Tips:
For an extra touch of elegance, arrange a few halved strawberries on top of the whipped cream before serving. You could also sprinkle a little grated chocolate or chocolate curls in addition to the cocoa powder for added texture and visual appeal. A few mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness to the presentation.
Ingredients:
- 5 whole eggs
- 150 g of sugar
- 500 g of creamy, full-bodied cream cheese or mascarpone
- 14 to 20 ladyfingers
- 400 ml of freshly brewed coffee
- 4 tbsp of coffee liqueur or your choice of liqueur (optional)
- 500 ml of cold heavy cream
- 80 g of sugar
- 300 g of strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
- Set up a double boiler by boiling water in a pot and placing a bowl on top. Mix eggs and 150 g of sugar in the bowl, heating and whisking until the mixture reaches over 75°C (165°F) to prevent salmonella. Continue mixing until it's hot to the touch.
- Transfer the egg mixture to a mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer until cool and frothy.
- Soften the mascarpone and fold it into the egg mixture gently in two or three additions.
- In a separate bowl, combine the coffee and liqueur. Dip ladyfingers into this mixture and lay them out as the first layer in your dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, then add half of the sliced strawberries. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, the remaining mascarpone mixture, and strawberries. Chill for at least 1 hour.
- Whip the heavy cream with 80 g of sugar until it forms stiff peaks (Chantilly). Spread this whipped cream over the top layer and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Dust with cocoa powder just before serving.
Tips:
- This dessert benefits from being made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- The addition of a whipped cream layer is a unique twist on the classic tiramisu, which traditionally doesn't include it.
- Always keep this dessert refrigerated and consume within 4 days.
- Instant coffee can be used as a convenient alternative to brewed coffee.
This Strawberry and Whipped Cream Tiramisu brings a fresh and fruity flair to the traditional dessert, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy the best flavors of the season. Enjoy this luscious, layered delight and let the compliments roll