Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe
If you’ve been looking for a dessert that feels like a celebration in every bite, this Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe is going to steal your heart. With layers of luscious mascarpone cream, tender ladyfingers soaked in coffee, and the vibrant burst of fresh raspberry sauce, it brings together the classic indulgence of tiramisu with a bright and fruity twist. Every spoonful offers a perfect balance of creamy richness and fruity freshness that makes this dessert truly unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe is a dazzling showstopper you’ll want to keep on your recipe list forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
As simple as it looks, every ingredient in this Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. These fresh and thoughtfully chosen ingredients ensure your dessert is creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
- Fresh raspberries (2 cups): Provide the bright, tangy fruit base that makes the dessert so refreshing.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the raspberry sauce just right, balancing the tartness.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle zing to enhance the natural raspberry flavor.
- Mascarpone cheese (1 1/2 cups, softened): The velvety heart of the tiramisu cream, giving it richness and creaminess.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Whipped into the mascarpone for that light, airy texture.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Adds gentle sweetness without grittiness in the creamy layers.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Deepens the flavor of the mascarpone cream with sweet warmth.
- Ladyfingers (24-30): The classic sponge elements soaked in coffee to bring structure and subtle bitterness.
- Brewed coffee (1 cup, cooled): Creates that iconic tiramisu espresso flavor foundation.
- Coffee liqueur (2 tbsp, optional): For an adult twist, it adds depth and richness to the coffee soak.
- Cocoa powder: For dusting the top, giving the final touch of elegance and a hint of chocolate bitterness.
- Additional fresh raspberries: To garnish and brighten up every serving visually and in taste.
How to Make Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Layer
Begin by gently cooking fresh raspberries with sugar and lemon juice in a small saucepan. As they simmer over medium heat, the berries break down beautifully, releasing their juice and melding into a luscious, syrupy sauce. This layer is the soul of the dessert, adding a bright and fruity contrast that lightens the richness of the mascarpone. Once thickened and fragrant, set the raspberry mixture aside to cool. Trust me, this medley will make your tiramisu sing with freshness.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream
Next, whip together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth, thick, and holds soft peaks. This fluffy cream is the luxurious component that gives tiramisu its iconic texture. Whipping in the heavy cream ensures it will be light and airy, yet creamy enough to balance those intense raspberry notes and soaked ladyfingers perfectly.
Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine cooled brewed coffee with coffee liqueur if you like. This coffee soak imparts the classic tiramisu espresso flavor and keeps the ladyfingers wonderfully moist without becoming soggy. If you prefer a non-alcoholic dessert, simply skip the liqueur and still enjoy a delicious base.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the coffee mixture, just enough to soak but not to mush. Arrange a layer of these at the bottom of your dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, then spoon half of the raspberry sauce on top, letting some of that beautiful color peek through. Repeat these layers once more, ending with a spoonful of the vibrant raspberry sauce on top. Layering like this creates a stunning contrast of colors and textures that make every bite exciting.
Step 5: Chill the Tiramisu
Cover your tiramisu with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This chilling time is crucial—it allows the flavors to harmonize and the dessert to set into that perfect creamy, spoonable consistency. Patience truly pays off here.
How to Serve Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder to add a lightly bitter chocolate aroma that contrasts beautifully with the sweet raspberries. Then, scatter additional fresh raspberries across the surface for an elegant and colorful finish that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
This Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe shines best on its own, but if you want to accompany it, consider a light, refreshing green salad with a citrus vinaigrette. The crispness and acidity will balance the dessert’s creamy richness. Alternatively, serve it alongside a glass of sparkling rosé to elevate your dining experience with bubbles and subtle fruitiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stylish twist, serve individual portions in clear dessert glasses or mason jars to showcase the beautiful layers. You can also garnish each serving with a small sprig of mint or a light drizzle of raspberry coulis for a playful, restaurant-worthy presentation. No matter how you plate it, this tiramisu will look as incredible as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe is best kept covered in the refrigerator. Stored properly, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain the texture of the mascarpone cream and prevent the ladyfingers from becoming overly soggy.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this tiramisu freezes well, though the texture of the raspberries may soften slightly upon thawing. To freeze, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
Because tiramisu is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. It’s meant to be enjoyed cold, where the layers hold their delicate structure and the flavors remain vibrant and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use frozen raspberries for this Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen raspberries work wonderfully if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking them into the sauce to avoid excess moisture.
Do I have to use coffee liqueur in this recipe?
No, the coffee liqueur is optional. You can omit it for a non-alcoholic version, and the dessert will still be delicious, with coffee providing the essential flavor without the alcohol.
What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese if I can’t find it?
Mascarpone has a unique creaminess, but if you can’t find it, a mix of cream cheese and heavy cream can work as a substitute. Use a ratio of about 8 ounces cream cheese to 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped together until smooth.
Can this Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free ladyfingers to keep the dessert safe for gluten-sensitive guests. Many specialty stores carry gluten-free options that work perfectly in layered desserts like this.
How far in advance can I make this tiramisu?
You can make this tiramisu up to 24 hours ahead of serving. In fact, making it a day before allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
Final Thoughts
This Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe is one of those rare desserts that feels both indulgent and fresh, elegant yet approachable. Whether you’re a tiramisu traditionalist or a fruit lover looking for a new twist, this recipe offers the best of both worlds. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how the vibrant raspberries breathe new life into a classic favorite. Happy baking and even happier tasting!
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Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A refreshing twist on the classic Italian tiramisu, this Raspberry Tiramisu features layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, luscious mascarpone cream, and a vibrant raspberry compote. Perfectly chilled and dusted with cocoa powder, it offers a delightful balance of creamy, fruity, and coffee flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Raspberry Layer
- 2 cups fresh raspberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Mascarpone Cream
- 1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Soaking Mixture and Assembly
- 24–30 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- 1 cup brewed coffee (cooled)
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Additional fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Raspberry Layer: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir occasionally until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat once syrupy and set aside to cool.
- Make the Mascarpone Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and forms soft peaks.
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture: In a shallow bowl, mix the cooled brewed coffee with the coffee liqueur, if using. This liquid will be used to soak the ladyfingers.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip ladyfingers into the coffee mixture then arrange a layer at the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar trifle dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Spoon half of the raspberry mixture over the mascarpone cream. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, remaining mascarpone cream, and remaining raspberry mixture.
- Chill the Tiramisu: Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Serve: Just before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and garnish with additional fresh raspberries for a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed frozen raspberries for best flavor and texture.
- Dipping the ladyfingers quickly in the coffee mixture prevents them from becoming too soggy.
- The coffee liqueur is optional but adds an authentic tiramisu flavor.
- Chilling overnight improves texture and taste, making the dessert more cohesive.
- This dessert is best served chilled and within 2 days of preparation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
