There’s something truly enchanting about the blend of strawberries and matcha, don’t you think? Imagine creamy mascarpone enveloping vibrant, fruity layers, with a lightness that melts in your mouth. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu. This dessert isn’t just a feast for the taste buds; it’s a stunning visual treat too, with its delicate green and pink hues creating a showstopper for any gathering.
I stumbled upon this delightful twist when craving a comforting dessert that stepped away from the usual chocolate options. What started as an experiment became a family favorite, perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in after a hectic week. Layered sponge fingers dipped in fragrant matcha and fluffy strawberry-infused mascarpone come together to create a unique dessert that’s surprisingly effortless. So grab your ingredients, and let’s elevate your dessert game with this quick and fabulous Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu!
Why is Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu So Irresistible?
Indulgent Layers: Each bite showcases a harmonious blend of creamy mascarpone and fresh strawberries, offering a burst of flavor that dances on your palate.
Artful Presentation: The vibrant green matcha and pink strawberry layers create an enticing visual appeal, making it the centerpiece of any dessert table.
Unique Twist: This recipe transforms a classic tiramisu, bringing new life to a beloved favorite, surprising even the most seasoned dessert lovers.
Effortlessly Impressive: Despite its stunning appearance, this tiramisu requires minimal effort, allowing you to wow guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Quick Preparation: With just a bit of prep, you can whip this up in under an hour, making it an ideal option for last-minute gatherings.
You can also explore variations, like trying out different berries, to keep things exciting!
Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu Ingredients
For the Strawberry Puree
- Fresh Strawberries – Ripe, sweet strawberries create a flavorful and vibrant puree.
- Granulated Sugar (80 g) – Balances the tartness of the strawberries; adjust to your sweetness preference.
- Corn Flour (40 g) – Thickens the puree; arrowroot powder can be a great alternative.
- Water (2 tablespoons) – Aids in blending the puree; substitute with lemon juice for a zesty kick.
For the Mascarpone Cream
- Mascarpone (600 g) – The heart of this dish, delivering a rich and creamy texture.
- Double Cream (600 ml) – Gives lightness and stability to the mascarpone; use heavy cream for a denser profile.
- Large Egg Yolks (6) – Brings richness; opt for pasteurized yolks for safety.
- Salt (1/8 teaspoon) – Enhances overall sweetness; an essential component.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds lovely aromatic notes; swap with almond extract for a twist.
- Pink Food Coloring (optional) – Brightens the cream; feel free to omit for a more natural look.
For the Matcha Mixture
- Matcha Powder (1-2 tablespoons) – The signature flavor; adjust to your taste for intensity.
- Warm Water (350 ml) – Necessary for dissolving the matcha; water should be hot but not boiling.
For Assembly
- Sponge Fingers (around 40) – Acts as the base; ladyfingers or homemade versions work best.
This Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu not only tastes incredible but also makes for a stunning presentation, perfect for impressing loved ones or simply treating yourself!
How to Make Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu
-
Prepare Strawberry Puree: Blend fresh strawberries with sugar, corn flour, and water until you achieve a smooth consistency. Sieve and cook until thickened, then cool in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
-
Make Mascarpone Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mascarpone, double cream, egg yolks, sugar, salt, and vanilla until soft peaks form. If desired, mix in the pink food coloring for a vibrant touch.
-
Prepare Matcha Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk the warm water with matcha powder until fully combined. The warm water helps dissolve the matcha and enhance its flavor.
-
Assemble Tiramisu: Quickly dip each sponge finger into the matcha mixture for about 2 seconds per side. Layer these dipped fingers at the bottom of a 9-inch square dish, followed by half of the mascarpone cream. Repeat this layering process.
-
Chill: Dust the top with matcha powder, cover the dish, and refrigerate overnight for the best results. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Optional: Serve with a garnish of fresh berries on top for a colorful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dessert even more your own with these fun twists!
-
Berry Bliss: Swap strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity flavor that’s equally refreshing. The tartness will beautifully complement the creamy mascarpone.
-
Gluten-Free Delight: Use gluten-free sponge fingers to create a version that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor. You’ll still achieve that signature softness that makes tiramisu so special.
-
Chocolate Ganache Layer: Elevate your tiramisu by adding a layer of rich chocolate ganache between the mascarpone and sponge layers. This indulgent twist will make chocolate lovers swoon!
-
Matcha Extras: For an extra boost of matcha flavor, sprinkle a bit of matcha powder in between the layers. This will enhance the green tea taste beautifully, making every bite a little more vibrant.
-
Whipped Coconut Cream: Replace the mascarpone with whipped coconut cream to create a dairy-free version that still delivers on creaminess. The tropical undertones will add a refreshing twist!
-
Nutty Crunch: Add crushed pistachios or almonds as a final layer for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smooth mascarpone, creating an enjoyable textural experience.
-
Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest in the mascarpone mixture for a bright and zesty flavor. This addition brings a refreshing pop that enhances the overall dish.
-
Layered Fruits: Mix in other fruits like poached peaches or sliced kiwi between layers to introduce more textures and flavors that will surprise your taste buds.
Each of these variations will take your Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu to delightful new heights, creating moments of joy around your table for family and friends.
What to Serve with Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu?
Discover the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your dessert experience into a delightful dining event.
-
Fresh Berries: Add a burst of color and sweetness to your plate; strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries pair beautifully with the tiramisu’s creamy layers.
-
Matcha Tea: Serve a warm cup of matcha alongside to enhance the earthy flavors; its green, herbal notes echo the matcha in your dessert.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce on the plate adds a touch of richness and balances the fruity brightness of the tiramisu. This combination transforms each bite into something extraordinary.
-
Shortbread Cookies: A crumbly, buttery cookie serves as a delightful contrast to the creamy tiramisu. Their texture adds another layer to your dessert spread.
-
Savory Cheese Plate: Unexpected, but delightful! Pair with mild cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta that will complement the dessert while providing a savory touch to the table.
-
Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of lemon or raspberry sorbet provides a refreshing palate cleanser that heightens the fruitiness of the tiramisu. It’s a light option that keeps dessert time feeling airy and vibrant.
Including any of these elements will ensure your Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu stands out as a star dish, surrounded by delightful and complementary flavors.
Storage Tips for Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odors, and consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor.
Freezer: Although it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the assembled tiramisu for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: This dessert is typically enjoyed cold, so there’s no need for reheating. Just ensure it’s properly chilled before serving.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the strawberry puree a day in advance and store it in the fridge, allowing for quicker assembly the following day for your Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the strawberry puree up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, let it cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container. The mascarpone mixture can also be prepared a day beforehand and kept covered in the fridge, which ensures the flavors develop beautifully. When you’re ready to assemble, simply dip your sponge fingers in the matcha mixture, layer everything together, and let the dessert chill overnight for the best flavor and texture. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s just as delicious, all while saving time in your busy schedule!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu
-
Avoid Sogginess: Dip sponge fingers in matcha for just 2 seconds to maintain their structure, preventing them from becoming too soft.
-
Cool the Puree: Ensure the strawberry puree is fully cooled before mixing with mascarpone; warm ingredients can cause the cream to melt and lose its fluffiness.
-
Chill Time Matters: Refrigerate your assembled Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu overnight to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully and for optimal texture.
-
Use Quality Ingredients: Choose the ripest strawberries for the best flavor and high-quality matcha for a richer taste, which enhances the overall dessert experience.
-
Experiment with Layers: Feel free to add a twist by incorporating layered berries or even a chocolate ganache for a luxurious touch to your tiramisu.
Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use for the puree?
Absolutely! It’s best to use ripe, sweet strawberries for your puree. Look for firm strawberries with vibrant red color and no dark spots; this ensures a delicious flavor. If you happen to have slightly overripe strawberries that aren’t suited for fresh eating, they can also work well in the puree.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu?
To keep your Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days to enjoy its delightful flavors fully. If there’s any concern about odors mixing, sealing it tightly is a must!
Can I freeze Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu?
Yes, you absolutely can freeze it! To do so, wrap the assembled tiramisu tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This will help maintain its texture and flavor.
What if my sponge fingers are too soggy after dipping in matcha?
That can happen, but don’t worry! If your sponge fingers are soggy, it likely means they were soaked too long in the matcha mixture. Try dipping them for only 2 seconds on each side, ensuring they retain some firmness. If you find you’re still struggling, consider using lighter hands when dipping or even explore making your sponge fingers cake drier.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making this dessert?
Definitely! This Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu contains egg yolks, dairy, and gluten from the sponge fingers, which could pose issues for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free sponge fingers or a homemade cake. Additionally, those avoiding egg can use commercially available egg replacers in the mascarpone cream for a safe alternative.
How can I enhance or modify the flavor of my Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu?
The more the merrier when it comes to customization! You can add different berries like raspberries or blueberries to the layers for variety. To deepen the flavor, consider substituting some matcha with cocoa powder or adding a thin layer of chocolate ganache between mascarpone layers. Don’t forget that adding a hint of lemon juice to the strawberry puree can provide a delightful zing!
Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu That Will Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend fresh strawberries with sugar, corn flour, and water until smooth. Sieve and cook until thickened, then cool in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mascarpone, double cream, egg yolks, sugar, salt, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Optionally mix in the pink food coloring.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the warm water with matcha powder until fully combined.
- Quickly dip each sponge finger into the matcha mixture for about 2 seconds per side. Layer them at the bottom of a dish, followed by half of the mascarpone cream. Repeat.
- Dust the top with matcha powder, cover the dish, and refrigerate overnight.