There is something truly magical about the combination of delicate white chocolate and fresh strawberries layered in the classic Italian delight we all love—a creamy, elegant White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe that feels like a celebration in every bite. This dessert takes the traditional tiramisu to a new level by swapping the usual espresso and cocoa for bright, fruity freshness and rich white chocolate sweetness. The texture plays with airy mascarpone, luscious whipped cream, and slightly soaked ladyfingers, all mingling beautifully with juicy strawberries in a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving this to guests or indulging in a sweet moment for yourself, this recipe promises a slice of pure joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential to crafting the perfect White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe. Each component brings a specific flavor or texture that, when combined, creates a harmonious balance of creaminess, sweetness, and fruity freshness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it adds lightness and volume to the creamy layers.
- Cream cheese, softened: Adds a slight tang and stability to the mascarpone mixture.
- Mascarpone cheese: The heart of any tiramisu, offering ultra-rich, velvety creaminess.
- White baking chocolate, melted and cooled: Infuses the dish with a luscious, sweet depth that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
- Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream, balanced perfectly between the layers.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- Ladyfingers: Light, airy biscuits that soak up orange juice, providing a tender yet structured base.
- Orange juice: Offers a citrusy brightness that refreshes the palate and complements the strawberries.
- Fresh strawberries, sliced: The star fruit that adds vibrant color, juicy sweetness, and a hint of tartness.
- Chocolate syrup (optional): For a finishing drizzle that adds richness and visual flair.
How to Make White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Whipped Cream
The first step is to take your heavy whipping cream and whip it until soft peaks form, which means the cream holds gentle peaks that fold easily. This airy texture is crucial because it lightens the cream mixture, making every spoonful silky and smooth. Setting this aside prepares you for building the creamy layers ahead.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Mixture
Using a mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese and mascarpone until wonderfully fluffy and light. Add the melted white chocolate, half of the confectioners’ sugar, and the vanilla extract into this mixture, blending until smooth. The white chocolate adds a sweet, creamy depth, while the vanilla enhances all the flavors. Gently fold the whipped cream into this mixture to keep it airy and luscious—this step demands a soft touch to maintain that delicate texture.
Step 3: Layer the Tiramisu
Begin by brushing half of the ladyfingers with orange juice to infuse moisture and a bright citrus flavor, then arrange them neatly in your chosen dish—13×9 inches is ideal. Spread half of the luxurious cream mixture over the ladyfingers, then layer half of the freshly sliced strawberries on top. This layering sets the foundation and ensures you experience every element in each bite.
Step 4: Add the Second Layer
Brush the remaining ladyfingers with the rest of the orange juice and place them over the strawberries, continuing the beautiful work of layers. Next, fold the remaining whipped cream into the rest of the cream mixture, after mixing in the remaining half cup of confectioners’ sugar to balance sweetness. Spread this final cream layer evenly over the ladyfingers. This step creates a perfectly structured dessert that holds together with each slice.
Step 5: Top and Chill
The last layering touch is topping with the remaining strawberries, adding a fresh burst of color and flavor right on top. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least four hours, or even better, overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften up just right, resulting in a dessert you’ll be excited to dig into.
Step 6: Serve
Before serving your White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe, consider drizzling a little chocolate syrup on top for an elegant finish. This extra touch adds a hint of chocolate richness and a beautiful visual contrast that makes the dish even more irresistible.
How to Serve White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh strawberries are a classic garnish here, but for added flair, toss in a few mint leaves for a splash of green and an extra burst of aroma. A sprinkle of finely grated white chocolate or a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar can also elevate the look and texture, making the dessert truly feel special when you bring it to the table.
Side Dishes
Since this White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is rich and creamy, pairing it with light, refreshing sides is ideal. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a small bowl of mixed berries complements the dessert without overwhelming the palate, balancing the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, try assembling this tiramisu in individual glass jars or parfait cups. This not only looks charming but makes serving effortless and mess-free. Layer the components visibly for a stunning presentation that invites everyone to dig in eagerly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from absorbing any other odors. It stays fresh for up to three days, which means you can savor it over several sittings without losing any of its delightful flavor or creamy texture.
Freezing
While freezing this tiramisu is possible, it’s best done if you want to save it for a longer time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Keep in mind that thawing overnight in the refrigerator is necessary before serving, as freezing can slightly alter the texture of the whipped cream and strawberries.
Reheating
Typically, tiramisu is enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating. Attempting to warm it up can cause the creamy layers to lose their perfect consistency. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes if it feels too cold before serving to enhance the flavors and softness.
FAQs
Can I substitute the white chocolate with regular chocolate?
Absolutely! While white chocolate provides a creamy sweetness unique to this recipe, using regular milk or dark chocolate will give a richer, more intense chocolate flavor. Adjust the sweetness accordingly, as dark chocolate is more bitter than white.
What can I use if I can’t find ladyfingers?
If ladyfingers are not available, sponge cake or pound cake sliced into thin layers makes a suitable alternative. Make sure to soak them lightly in orange juice to keep the moist and flavorful character of the tiramisu.
Is it okay to use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best for maintaining texture and flavor, but if frozen strawberries are your only option, thaw and drain them well before layering. Excess moisture from frozen ones can make the tiramisu soggy, so a quick pat dry helps keep everything just right.
How long should I chill the tiramisu before serving?
For the best flavor and set texture, chilling for at least 4 hours is essential, with overnight refrigeration being ideal. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften without becoming mushy.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
Veganizing this recipe is a bit tricky because of the mascarpone and cream cheese, but using coconut cream, vegan cream cheese, and dairy-free white chocolate can help you create a plant-based version. Be prepared for some differences in texture and taste, but it can be just as delightful!
Final Thoughts
This White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines elegance, freshness, and creamy indulgence all in one beautiful dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, this tiramisu offers a lighthearted twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to bring smiles and warm hearts. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every luscious bite as much as I do!
Print
White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of creamy mascarpone and cream cheese combined with melted white chocolate, fresh strawberries, and orange-infused ladyfingers. Light, luscious, and refreshing, it’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings or a special treat.
Ingredients
Cream Mixture
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (4 oz) mascarpone cheese
- 9 oz white baking chocolate, melted and cooled
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, divided
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Layers
- 2 packages (3 oz each) ladyfingers, split
- â…” cup orange juice
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Optional Topping
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Set this whipped cream aside for later use.
- Make the Creamy Mixture: Beat together the cream cheese and mascarpone until the mixture is fluffy. Gradually add the melted and cooled white chocolate, half of the confectioners’ sugar (½ cup), and the vanilla extract while mixing until smooth. Gently fold the prepared whipped cream into this mixture to keep it light and airy.
- Layer the Tiramisu: Brush half of the ladyfingers with half of the orange juice, then arrange them evenly in a 13×9-inch dish. Spread half of the creamy mixture over the soaked ladyfingers, followed by an even layer of half the sliced strawberries.
- Add the Second Layer: Repeat the process by brushing the remaining ladyfingers with the rest of the orange juice and placing them over the strawberries. Mix the remaining ½ cup confectioners’ sugar into the remaining cream mixture and fold in the leftover whipped cream. Spread this over the second ladyfinger layer evenly.
- Top & Chill: Finish by topping the tiramisu with the remaining sliced strawberries. Cover the dish securely and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the dessert to set.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally drizzle with chocolate syrup to add a decorative and flavorful touch.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries to enhance the natural sweetness.
- Ensure the white chocolate is fully melted and slightly cooled to prevent curdling when mixed with cheeses.
- Ladyfingers should be quickly brushed with orange juice to avoid becoming too soggy.
- This dessert can be prepared a day in advance, making it ideal for entertaining.
- Use mascarpone cheese for authentic tiramisu texture and flavor.
- Chocolate syrup is optional, but it adds an elegant finish and additional sweetness.
