This fresh raspberry tiramisu is a fun twist on the classic dessert! It layers creamy mascarpone with sweet raspberries and coffee-dipped ladyfingers for a delightful treat.
It’s so refreshing, especially when you want something light and fruity. Just be careful; this dessert may make you want to have seconds (or thirds)! 
I love serving it at dinner parties since it looks fancy but is super simple to make. Plus, those fresh raspberries add a burst of flavor that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Raspberries: These provide a burst of sweetness and tartness. If you can’t find fresh, you can use frozen raspberries, just make sure to thaw and drain them first. I’ve used strawberries before, and they work well too!
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is perfect here. For a healthier option, you can substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia. Just adjust the quantity according to taste since sugar substitutes can be sweeter!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dessert its nice, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can use whipped topping or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but my favorite remains good old heavy cream for the richness.
Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy cheese is key to achieving the classic tiramisu texture. You could swap it with cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream, for a similar consistency, although you might miss that unique flavor.
Ladyfinger Cookies: These are necessary for layering. If you can’t find them, soft sponge cake or even homemade cookies can work. Just remember to dip them quickly in coffee so they don’t get too soggy.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Whipped Cream for Tiramisu?
Getting the whipped cream right is essential for a light texture in tiramisu. Here are some tips to help you whip it to perfection:
- Start with a cold mixing bowl and beaters to help the cream whip better.
- Whip on medium speed until soft peaks form, which means it will hold its shape but still be creamy.
- Be gentle when folding it into the mascarpone mixture; use a silicone spatula for easy mixing without deflating the cream.
How to Make Fresh Raspberry Tiramisu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Raspberry Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Tiramisu Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Layering:
- 1 packet ladyfinger cookies (approximately 24-30)
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Extra raspberries and lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fresh Raspberry Tiramisu requires about 20 minutes of prep time and at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator (overnight is best!). Give yourself time to enjoy making it, and you’ll have a fantastic dessert ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Raspberry Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh raspberries, ½ cup of sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. You want the raspberries to break down and the mixture to thicken a bit. Once it’s done, take it off the heat and let it cool. This sauce will give your tiramisu a refreshing burst of flavor!
2. Prepare the Cream Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until you see soft peaks. In another bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese, the remaining ½ cup of sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s nice and smooth. Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until everything is combined. This fluffy mixture is going to make your tiramisu super creamy!
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Take a shallow dish and pour in your cooled brewed espresso or strong coffee. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee—don’t let them soak, just a quick dip! Arrange the ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of a rectangular dish. Now, spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, followed by half of the raspberry sauce. Then, repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, the rest of the mascarpone mixture, and top it off with the remaining raspberry sauce.
4. Chill Your Tiramisu:
Cover your dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This will let all the flavors blend beautifully together!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the tiramisu out of the fridge. Garnish with extra raspberries, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and a few lemon slices for a cheerful touch. Cut it into squares and get ready to enjoy your refreshing and delightful Fresh Raspberry Tiramisu!
Can I Use Frozen Raspberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen raspberries! Just remember to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. Keep in mind that frozen raspberries might be a bit mushier than fresh ones, so the texture might differ slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Make Tiramisu Without Coffee?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use coffee, you can substitute it with strong brewed tea, such as chai or herbal teas. Alternatively, you could use milk or a flavored syrup for a twist, but this will change the overall flavor profile of the dessert.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve the texture of the ladyfingers, avoid freezing the tiramisu as it can become watery when thawed. Just enjoy the remaining portions fresh!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream or Mascarpone?
While you can use low-fat options, be aware that they may not whip as well and can alter the creaminess of your tiramisu. For best results, stick with heavy cream and full-fat mascarpone to achieve that rich, decadent flavor!
