Valentines Day Strawberry Tiramisu

Valentine's Day calls for something truly special — a dessert that feels as romantic as the occasion itself. These Strawberry Tiramisu Cups are a dreamy twist on the beloved Italian classic, reimagined as individual servings made for sharing with someone you adore. Layers of cloud-light mascarpone cream, coffee-kissed ladyfingers, and jewel-bright macerated strawberries come together in elegant glasses that look as stunning as they taste. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner for two or a small gathering, these cups deliver all the indulgence of tiramisu with a fresh, fruity heart at the center.

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What makes these cups so irresistible is the harmony of textures and flavors. The mascarpone cream is whipped to a pillowy softness, while the ladyfingers absorb just enough coffee to turn tender without losing their delicate structure. The strawberries, briefly macerated in sugar and lemon juice, release their natural juices to create a luscious, syrupy layer that weaves through every bite. After a slow chill in the refrigerator, all these elements meld into something greater than the sum of their parts — a dessert that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• For the Strawberry Layer:
• 2 cups (300 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For the Mascarpone Cream:
• 1 cup (240 g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, cold
• 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For Assembly:
• 12 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) brewed coffee, cooled
• 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
• Fresh strawberries and mint leaves, for garnish
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

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Instructions

Step 1: Macerate the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside for 10 minutes to macerate.

Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Cream

In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Dipping Mixture

In a shallow dish, mix the cooled coffee with coffee liqueur (if using).

Step 4: Dip the Ladyfingers

Break the ladyfingers in half if needed to fit your serving glasses. Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee mixture (do not soak).

Step 5: Assemble the Cups

Layer 2–3 soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of each glass, spoon a layer of mascarpone cream over them, then add a layer of macerated strawberries. Repeat layers, finishing with mascarpone cream on top.

Step 6: Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to overnight) to allow flavors to meld.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish with fresh strawberries, mint leaves, and a dusting of cocoa powder.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Achte darauf, die Löffelbiskuits nur kurz in die Kaffeemischung zu tauchen — zu langes Einweichen lässt sie zerfallen und beeinträchtigt die Textur der fertigen Dessertbecher. Die Mascarpone sollte Zimmertemperatur haben, damit sie sich glatt und klümpchenfrei aufschlagen lässt. Schlage die Sahne in einer gut gekühlten Schüssel auf, damit sie schneller und stabiler steif wird. Für ein besonders gleichmäßiges Ergebnis beim Bestäuben mit Kakaopulver empfiehlt sich ein feines Sieb, das den Kakao gleichmäßig über die Cremeschicht verteilt.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Für eine alkoholfreie Version lässt du den Kaffeelikör einfach weg — der Kaffeegeschmack bleibt vollständig erhalten. Anstelle von Erdbeeren kannst du auch Himbeeren, Heidelbeeren oder eine Mischung aus frischen Beeren verwenden. Wer dem Dessert eine zusätzliche Geschmackstiefe verleihen möchte, kann einen Spritzer Erdbeerlikör zu den mazerierten Beeren geben. Das Rezept ist außerdem vegetarisch und lässt sich leicht an verschiedene Vorlieben anpassen.

Serviervorschläge

Diese Tiramisu-Becher machen in eleganten Glasgefäßen eine besonders schöne Figur — die Schichten aus Creme, Löffelbiskuits und Erdbeeren sind durch das Glas sichtbar und machen das Dessert zu einem echten Hingucker auf jedem Tisch. Serviere sie direkt aus dem Kühlschrank, damit die Mascarpone-Creme ihre cremige Konsistenz behält. Als Abschluss eines romantischen Dinners passen sie wunderbar zu einem Glas Prosecco oder einem leichten Dessertlikör.

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These Valentine's Day Strawberry Tiramisu Cups are proof that the most memorable desserts don't require hours in the kitchen. With just 20 minutes of preparation and a patient chill in the refrigerator, you'll have four beautifully layered cups ready to impress. Each spoonful offers the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and subtly coffee-tinged flavors — a dessert that speaks the language of romance in every layer. Share them, savor them, and let this elegant little treat make your Valentine's Day all the sweeter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I macerate the strawberries?

Combine sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, then let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices and soften.

→ Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Yes, assembling ahead and chilling it for at least 2 hours allows flavors to meld beautifully.

→ What can I use instead of coffee liqueur?

Simply omit it or substitute with an extra splash of brewed coffee for flavor without alcohol.

→ Are ladyfingers essential for texture?

Ladyfingers provide the classic light and spongy base soaked in coffee, but sponge cake slices can be a good substitute.

→ How can I make this dessert more festive?

Add fresh mint leaves and dust with cocoa powder just before serving for a fresh, decorative touch.