Strawberry Tiramisu Delight

Strawberry tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining layers of creamy mascarpone, ladyfinger cookies, and a rich strawberry syrup. This refreshing dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Made with fresh strawberries, the dessert is both visually appealing and satisfyingly delicious. The cream layer is enriched with mascarpone cheese and a hint of zesty lemon, giving it a unique flavor profile. The strawberry syrup is spiked with a touch of cognac, though this can be omitted if serving to children. This no-bake dessert requires some chilling time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. It is best made ahead to ensure the best texture and flavor. Perfect for a summer gathering or a festive celebration, strawberry tiramisu is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500 g strawberries
• 400 g ladyfinger cookies
• 200 g sugar
• 50 ml cognac (optional)

For the Cream:

• 4 eggs
• 500 g mascarpone cheese
• 20 g gelatin
• Lemon zest
• 100 g sugar
• Salt

Preparation Time

Total: 120 minutes (includes chilling time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Rinse and dry the strawberries, then blend them into a smooth puree. Reserve a few whole strawberries for decoration.
2. Make the Strawberry Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the strawberry puree with 150 ml of hot water and 200 g of sugar. Heat the mixture while stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add Cognac: Stir in the cognac and bring the syrup to a boil. If serving to children, you can skip the cognac. Remove the saucepan from heat and cool it in a bowl of cold water.
4. Soak the Gelatin: In a small bowl, soak the gelatin in 4 tablespoons of cold water.
5. Prepare the Cream Base: Beat the egg yolks with sugar and grated lemon zest until creamy. Gradually add the mascarpone cheese, blending well each time.
6. Season the Cream: Add a pinch of salt to the cream and whip until it forms stiff peaks.
7. Incorporate Gelatin: Melt the soaked gelatin over a double boiler, then slowly fold it into the cheese mixture.
8. Dip the Cookies: Quickly dip the ladyfinger cookies into the cooled strawberry syrup, allowing them to soak slightly.
9. Layer the Dessert: Line a rectangular dish with plastic wrap. Pour half of the cream mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Layer soaked cookies over the cream, then top with the remaining cream.
10. Final Layer: Add another layer of soaked cookies on top of the cream.
11. Chill the Dessert: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to set.
12. Serve the Tiramisu: Before serving, invert the tiramisu onto a serving plate. Decorate with reserved strawberries and drizzle with the remaining strawberry syrup. Enjoy!

Tips

• Substitution: You can replace cognac with orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
• Gelatin Alternative: Agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian substitute for gelatin.
• Texture Tip: Ensure ladyfingers are not overly soaked to maintain the perfect texture.

Nutritions

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

• Chocolate Dip: Substitute strawberry syrup with chocolate syrup for a different flavor.
• Berry Mix: Use a combination of berries like raspberries and blueberries for a mixed berry tiramisu.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairings: Best served with a side of fresh mint and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Garnish: Lightly sprinkle cocoa powder or grated dark chocolate for an extra touch.

Best Places

1. Caffè Florian - A historic cafe known for its exquisite desserts. Location: Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy.
2. Pasticceria Marchesi 1824 - Famous for its elegant pastries and tiramisu. Location: Via Monte Napoleone, Milan, Italy.
3. Café Sacher - Renowned for its sumptuous array of desserts. Location: Philharmoniker Strasse, Vienna, Austria.
4. Ladurée Paris Champs Elysées - Celebrated for its iconic pastries and ambiance. Location: Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
5. Antico Caffè Greco - Known for its classic Italian desserts. Location: Via dei Condotti, Rome, Italy.
6. Cafe Central - Offers a blend of tradition and modernity in pastries. Location: Herrengasse, Vienna, Austria.
7. El Moro - Renowned for churros, also famous for unique desserts. Location: Eje Central, Mexico City, Mexico.
8. Angelina - Offers delightful desserts with a touch of elegance. Location: Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
9. Café de Flore - A classic Parisian establishment with top-notch desserts. Location: Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
10. Pastéis de Belém - Known for traditional Portuguese pastries and more. Location: Rua de Belém, Lisbon, Portugal.