Strawberry Tiramisu Cups

Name: Strawberry Tiramisu Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup ladyfinger cookies; 1/2 cup strawberry puree (optional for dipping); Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Golden Kitchen

I absolutely love making these Strawberry Tiramisu Cups, as they perfectly combine the classic flavors of tiramisu with fresh, vibrant strawberries. Each luscious layer offers a delightful mix of creamy mascarpone and the sweet-tart notes of berries, making it an irresistible dessert. The best part is how simple they are to prepare, and I can whip them up in under an hour. These cups are ideal for impressing guests or enjoying as a sweet treat after dinner.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:50:38.956Z

Making these Strawberry Tiramisu Cups brought back so many fond memories for me. I recall the first time I tried tiramisu in Italy, and I fell in love with the airy texture and rich flavors. To recreate that magic, I decided to swap coffee for fresh strawberries, and the outcome was absolutely delightful. The blend of textures, thanks to layers of ladyfingers and rich mascarpone, always leaves everyone craving more.

Another great tip is to let them chill for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the creaminess of the mascarpone and letting the strawberries shine. It’s a crowd-pleaser that I can’t get enough of, and I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!

Why You'll Love These Strawberry Tiramisu Cups
Fresh strawberries add a bright and fruity twist to a classic dessert
Velvety mascarpone combined with a hint of vanilla creates a heavenly flavor
Individual servings make them perfect for parties and gatherings

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When it comes to selecting strawberries for these Tiramisu Cups, opt for the ripest berries available. Look for deep red color, a firm texture, and a sweet fragrance. Fresh strawberries will not only enhance the visual appeal of your dessert but will also provide a juicy burst of flavor. If fresh strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen berries thawed and gently pressed to remove excess moisture.

For this recipe, hulled strawberries are key, as this preparation allows their natural sweetness to shine through. If you’re looking for a more intense flavor, try roasting the strawberries for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to caramelize their sugars, giving your dessert a new depth of flavor.

Mastering Mascarpone Technique

Mascarpone is the star ingredient in these cups, providing a rich, creamy texture. When mixing your mascarpone, ensure it’s at room temperature to avoid clumping. If your mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of heavy cream to achieve that silky consistency. I find that blending the mascarpone with a hand mixer for just a minute helps achieve a perfectly smooth base, creating a cloud-like texture when folded with whipped cream.

Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the mascarpone. Use a spatula and a folding motion to maintain airiness, which is crucial for a light, airy dessert. If you overmix, the mascarpone may lose its fluffiness and lead to a denser final product. Aim for a mixture that’s glossy and just combined, with visible streaks of cream.

Layering and Serving Tips

Layering is critical in creating beautiful Strawberry Tiramisu Cups. To ensure even distribution, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of each cup, slightly staggered, followed by a generous scoop of the mascarpone mixture. Drizzle in some of the macerated strawberries before repeating the layers. This not only enhances the dessert’s aesthetic but also allows flavors to meld as they chill.

For added flair, consider toasting some sliced almonds and sprinkling them on top before serving. They add a delightful crunch that complements the creamy layers beautifully. Since these cups can be prepared ahead of time, they’re perfect for busy days—just assemble, refrigerate, and enjoy at a moment's notice.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Tiramisu Cups

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup ladyfinger cookies
1/2 cup strawberry puree (optional for dipping)
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar and let them macerate for about 10 minutes. This will enhance their flavor.

Make the Mascarpone Mixture

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese, remaining powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer the ladyfingers (dipped briefly in strawberry puree if desired), followed by the mascarpone mixture, and then a layer of macerated strawberries. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with strawberries on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Tiramisu Cups!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce over the top before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead

These Strawberry Tiramisu Cups can be made a day in advance, which makes them a great choice for hosting. After assembling, simply cover the cups with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, and the layers will meld beautifully, making the dessert even better the next day.

If you're planning to freeze, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, store the cups without the strawberries on top, adding them just before serving to retain their freshness. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.

Flavor Variations

While strawberries are delicious, there are countless ways to personalize these Tiramisu Cups. Swap out strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries to create a mixed berry version. Alternatively, you could infuse the mascarpone with citrus zest for a refreshing twist, using a lemon or orange to enhance the overall brightness of the dessert.

For a chocolate lover's version, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the mascarpone and fruits. Simply melt dark chocolate with a bit of cream and let it cool slightly before adding a layer directly atop the ladyfingers. This adds a luxurious element to each cup and satisfies any chocolate cravings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long can I store these cups?

These cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they are best when consumed fresh.

→ Can I substitute the mascarpone cheese?

A mixture of cream cheese and sour cream can be used as a substitute for mascarpone, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

→ Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! This dessert is kid-friendly and can be enjoyed by the whole family.