Strawberry Tiramisu Cups

Name: Strawberry Tiramisu Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled; 12 ladyfingers; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; Cocoa powder for dusting

Highlighted under: Soft Kitchen

I absolutely love making Strawberry Tiramisu Cups for any gathering! The combination of creamy mascarpone with the vibrant taste of strawberries creates a delightful dessert that's sure to impress. Each cup is layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, a luscious cheese mixture, and juicy berries, resulting in a treat that's not only delicious but also visually pleasing. It’s quick to assemble, and everyone enjoys the individual servings. Trust me; it's a perfect ending to any meal or just as a sweet pick-me-up during the day.

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:29:35.120Z

When I first made these Strawberry Tiramisu Cups, I was blown away by the combination of flavors and textures. The coffee-soaked ladyfingers meld perfectly with the creamy mascarpone, and fresh strawberries add a touch of tartness that brightens every bite. I found that letting them chill for at least an hour allows the flavors to deepen, making them even more delicious!

One tip I learned is to use espresso for soaking the ladyfingers for an authentic tiramisu taste. If you prefer a milder coffee flavor, simply use brewed coffee. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them for every occasion!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant strawberry flavor complemented by smooth mascarpone
Individual servings for easy sharing and presentation
No baking required, making preparation a breeze
A delightful coffee kick that enhances the dessert

Ingredient Insights

The star of this recipe is the mascarpone cheese, which brings a rich, creamy texture to the dessert. It's essential to choose high-quality mascarpone, as the flavor will significantly impact the final taste. If you can't find mascarpone, a blend of cream cheese and heavy cream can be used as a substitute; just whisk them together until smooth for similar results. The heavy cream in the mixture helps achieve a light and airy consistency, which balances the density of the mascarpone.

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for this recipe. Their natural sweetness and acidity complement the coffee and mascarpone beautifully. When selecting strawberries, look for bright red ones without blemishes and firm to the touch. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen ones, but let them thaw and drain excess moisture to prevent the dessert from becoming watery. This variation keeps the recipe adaptable throughout the year.

Layering Techniques

Proper layering is key to achieving the perfect Strawberry Tiramisu Cups. When soaking the ladyfingers in coffee, be quick; a few seconds is all it takes. If they're too soggy, they won't hold their shape and may create a mushy dessert. Aim for a firm, yet slightly softened texture. Place the ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of each cup, ensuring they fit snugly without crowding, which allows for even layering and a beautiful presentation.

After layering with the mascarpone mixture, take care to spread it evenly for a balanced taste in every bite. Use a spatula to smooth the top, making sure to reach the edges without disturbing the ladyfingers beneath. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also ensure that each spoonful contains the ideal proportion of the creamy filling and strawberries.

Chilling and Serving Tips

Chilling is a vital step in this recipe as it allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up. While a minimum of one hour is recommended, if time permits, chilling for four hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even more. The longer chill time will result in a firmer dessert that’s easier to serve and enjoy. Just be sure to cover the cups tightly to avoid any absorption of odors from your refrigerator.

When it's time to serve, dusting with cocoa powder adds a visual contrast and a hint of bitterness that beautifully balances the sweetness of the strawberries. I like to use a fine mesh sieve for a delicate dusting. Additionally, you can switch things up by drizzling a little melted chocolate or balsamic reduction over the top for an elegant touch that adds richness and complexity to the flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Strawberry Tiramisu Cups:

Ingredients

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
12 ladyfingers
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Strawberry Tiramisu Cups:

Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside.

Soak the Ladyfingers

Dip each ladyfinger briefly in the cooled coffee, ensuring they soak but do not become soggy. Layer them in the bottom of each cup.

Layer the Ingredients

Spoon a layer of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone.

Chill and Serve

Cover the cups and refrigerate for at least one hour. Before serving, dust the tops with cocoa powder and add a few extra strawberry slices for garnish.

Pro Tips

Make sure to choose ripe strawberries for the best flavor. You can also substitute the strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist!

Storing and Make-Ahead Options

These Strawberry Tiramisu Cups can be made a day in advance, making them a fantastic dessert for events and gatherings. Preparing them ahead not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop as they sit in the fridge. Store them covered in the refrigerator, and they will stay fresh for up to two days. However, avoid adding the cocoa powder or any fresh garnishes until just before serving to keep everything looking pristine and appetizing.

If you want to create a larger batch for a big gathering, consider using a trifle dish or a large glass bowl instead of individual cups. Layer the ingredients as directed but adjust the soaking of ladyfingers accordingly to ensure every layer receives the right amount of coffee. This method also gives a stunning visual appeal when serving straight from a communal bowl.

Variations to Try

You can easily customize these Strawberry Tiramisu Cups to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. For a chocolate version, swap out some of the strawberries for mini chocolate chips or incorporate cocoa powder into the mascarpone mixture. Another delightful twist is to use different fruits; raspberries or blueberries can be substituted, or you can even layer in some sliced bananas for added flavor.

For those avoiding coffee, you can replace the espresso with fruit juice or chocolate milk for a kid-friendly treat. Almond or coconut milk can also be used for soaking ladyfingers for an easier flavor profile, resulting in a softly sweet dessert perfect for any palate. Just be mindful of how these alternatives will affect the overall flavor and sweetness, and adjust the amount of powdered sugar accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! These can be prepared a day in advance, just keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ Can I use a different type of fruit?

Absolutely! You can swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches to suit your taste.

→ Is there a non-coffee alternative?

Sure! You can use chocolate milk or a fruit juice like orange juice if you prefer a non-coffee option.

→ How long do leftovers last?

Leftover tiramisu cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep them covered.