Raspberry Tiramisu

Raspberry Tiramisu is a vibrant, refreshing twist on the classic Italian dessert. Layers of delicate ladyfingers are soaked in raspberry syrup or juice, then layered with a rich mascarpone cream filling, and topped with fresh raspberries. The tangy sweetness of the berries adds a bright contrast to the creamy mascarpone, making this version a lighter and fruitier take on the traditional tiramisu.

The first time I made Raspberry Tiramisu, I loved how the tartness of the raspberries balanced out the richness of the mascarpone cream. The slight sweetness of the ladyfingers and the touch of berry flavor in every bite make this dessert extra special. What I love most about this version is that it’s not overly sweet, and the freshness of the raspberries keeps the dish feeling light and refreshing. You can prepare it ahead of time for an easy yet impressive dessert to serve at any gathering, and the bright, bold colors make it a showstopper. Raspberry Tiramisu is perfect for anyone who loves the classic dessert but wants to try something with a fruity flair!

Perfect for:

Celebratory events
Dinner parties
Valentine’s Day
Birthdays
Raspberry and tiramisu lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Raspberry Tiramisu will become your go-to dessert:

Unique Twist: The addition of raspberries brings a refreshing burst of flavor to the classic tiramisu.
Elegant Layers: This dessert’s layered appearance and smooth finish make it an eye-catching centerpiece.
Light and Creamy: The mascarpone cream is rich yet airy, offering a silky texture in every bite.
Tangy and Sweet: The combination of fresh raspberries with mascarpone delivers the perfect balance of tart and sweet.
Make-Ahead Dessert: This tiramisu can be prepared ahead of time, making it stress-free for entertaining.
No-Bake Ease: No need for an oven, making this dessert a great option for warm days.
Simple Ingredients: You can easily find the ingredients at your local store, with no special tools needed.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From birthdays to casual get-togethers, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser.
Customizable Flavors: Add a splash of raspberry liqueur or vanilla extract for extra flavor complexity.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free ladyfingers for a gluten-free variation without compromising on taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling time)
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 3.5 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 42g, Fat: 27g

Ingredients

For the Cream Layer:

1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin

The Ladyfingers:

1 package ladyfingers (about 24)
½ cup raspberry juice or a raspberry-flavored syrup

For the Garnish:

Fresh raspberries
Cocoa powder for dusting

Ingredient Highlights

Mascarpone Cheese: The key ingredient that adds richness and creaminess to the tiramisu.
Raspberries: Provide a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the mascarpone.
Gelatin: Helps the cream layer set perfectly and hold its shape.
Raspberry Juice: Soaks the ladyfingers with a burst of fruity flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cream Layer:

Bloom Gelatin: Dissolve gelatin in a small amount of water and set it aside for 5 minutes to bloom.
Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Mix with Mascarpone: In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese and raspberry puree until smooth.
Add Gelatin: Gently heat the bloomed gelatin in the microwave until liquid, then fold it into the mascarpone mixture.
Combine Cream and Mascarpone: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.

Prepare the Ladyfingers:

Soak Ladyfingers: Lightly dip each ladyfinger into the raspberry juice or syrup for a second, being careful not to soak them too long.
Layer Ladyfingers: Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or serving dish.

Assemble the Tiramisu:

Layer the Cream: Spread a portion of the mascarpone cream mixture over the soaked ladyfingers, smoothing it out into an even layer.
Repeat Layers: Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers and top with the remaining cream mixture.
Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3-4 hours to allow the tiramisu to set.

Serve:

Garnish and Dust: Just before serving, top the tiramisu with fresh raspberries and dust with cocoa powder. Slice and serve chilled.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Raspberry Tiramisu:

As a Dessert for Special Occasions: Serve at birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration.
With a Scoop of Sorbet: Pair with raspberry or lemon sorbet for a refreshing contrast.
For Afternoon Tea: Serve small portions of tiramisu with a hot cup of tea.
As a Show-Stopping Dessert: This dessert is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.
With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.
For a Romantic Date Night: Perfect for Valentine’s Day, served with a glass of champagne or wine.
With Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint for a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note.
As a Refreshing Summer Treat: Perfect for warm-weather gatherings when you want something light and cool.
With Chocolate Shavings: Add some chocolate curls or shavings for a touch of indulgence.
For a Light Breakfast: Pair with a light coffee or cappuccino for a sweet start to your day.

Additional Tips

Fresh or Frozen Raspberries: You can use either fresh or frozen raspberries. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them and drain off any excess liquid to prevent sogginess.
Layering Technique: Alternate between raspberry and mascarpone layers to create a visually appealing dessert. You can even add a few raspberries into the mascarpone mixture for a burst of flavor.
Sponge Cake vs. Ladyfingers: If you can’t find ladyfingers, sponge cake can be a good substitute. Just make sure it’s cut into similar sizes for even soaking.
Soaking the Ladyfingers: Don’t soak the ladyfingers for too long. A quick dip in the raspberry syrup or coffee mixture is enough to moisten them without turning them soggy.
Raspberry Syrup: For extra raspberry flavor, drizzle a homemade raspberry syrup over the ladyfingers before assembling the tiramisu layers.
Chill Time: Let your tiramisu chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Customize with Liquor: You can add a splash of raspberry liqueur, like Chambord, to the soaking syrup for an extra layer of flavor, or stick with traditional coffee liqueur.
Whipped Cream Texture: For a lighter texture, fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. This will give the tiramisu a fluffier finish.
Garnish Ideas: Top with fresh raspberries, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a sprinkle of grated chocolate for an elegant finish.
Make Ahead: Raspberry tiramisu can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors get better with time!

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Raspberry Tiramisu: Add a layer of melted chocolate or cocoa powder to the cream for a richer flavor.
Vegan Raspberry Tiramisu: Replace mascarpone with coconut cream and use dairy-free ladyfingers.
Lemon Raspberry Tiramisu: Add lemon zest to the cream for a citrusy twist.
Raspberry Almond Tiramisu: Add a sprinkle of almond flour or crushed almonds between the layers for a nutty crunch.
Berry Blend Tiramisu: Mix raspberries with other berries like strawberries or blackberries for a mixed berry version.

Special Equipment

Springform Pan or Serving Dish: For assembling and serving.
Electric Mixer: For whipping the cream.
Fine Mesh Sieve: For dusting cocoa powder evenly.
Offset Spatula: To spread the mascarpone mixture evenly.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen raspberries work well. Thaw and puree them before using.
How long does this tiramisu last in the fridge?
It lasts for 2-3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this tiramisu needs to chill for a few hours to set, so it can be made a day in advance.
What can I substitute for gelatin?
Agar-agar is a suitable vegetarian alternative for gelatin.
Can I freeze this tiramisu?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change once thawed.
How do I prevent the layers from being too soggy?
Be gentle when soaking the ladyfingers, and don’t let them sit too long in the liquid.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply adjust the ingredients accordingly for a larger pan.
What if I don’t have ladyfingers?
You can use sponge cake or pound cake as a substitute for ladyfingers.
How do I cut the tiramisu neatly?
Use a sharp knife and dip it in hot water before cutting to get clean slices.

Conclusion

Raspberry Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the creamy layers of mascarpone with the vibrant sweetness of fresh raspberries. This version replaces the traditional coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a tangy raspberry syrup, making it a refreshing and fruity take on the beloved tiramisu.

To make this, you’ll start by making a luscious mascarpone filling, blending mascarpone cheese with whipped cream, sugar, and a bit of vanilla extract for sweetness. Fresh raspberries can be gently blended with a bit of sugar to create a sweet raspberry syrup. The ladyfingers are briefly dipped in this syrup (not too long, to avoid sogginess) and layered in a dish. The mascarpone mixture is spread over the ladyfingers, creating a creamy, dreamy layer. Repeat the process for a second layer, then chill the tiramisu in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together. Once ready to serve, garnish with fresh raspberries and a dusting of cocoa powder or grated chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.

I can’t wait to see how your Raspberry Tiramisu turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dessert your own!