Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu

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Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu

Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu: A Refreshing No-Bake Fusion Dessert

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Introduction: Where East Meets Italy in a Spoonful 🍓🍵

A Global Classic with a Japanese-Inspired Twist

Tiramisu, one of Italy’s most iconic desserts, first emerged in Treviso during the 1960s. Traditionally made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and whipped mascarpone, it has since traveled the world and evolved into countless variations. One of the freshest takes on this layered indulgence? The vibrant, creamy, and totally Instagrammable Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu.

This fusion recipe swaps espresso for earthy matcha, adds a layer of fresh sliced strawberries, and preserves the no-bake convenience of the original. The result is a dessert that’s visually stunning, lightly sweet, and packed with layered flavor—perfect for warm weather gatherings or Japanese-inspired menus.

Why Matcha + Tiramisu Works (and Where It’s Loved Most) 🌏

The blend of matcha and mascarpone creates a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and elevated. The matcha’s slight bitterness balances beautifully against the sweetness of strawberries and cream, offering a more delicate, herbal edge than coffee.

This creative version of tiramisu has found enthusiastic fans across cultures. Here are the top 10 countries where matcha and tiramisu fusion desserts are especially popular:

  1. 🇯🇵 Japan

  2. 🇺🇸 United States

  3. 🇰🇷 South Korea

  4. 🇹🇼 Taiwan

  5. 🇨🇦 Canada

  6. 🇸🇬 Singapore

  7. 🇬🇧 United Kingdom

  8. 🇵🇭 Philippines

  9. 🇦🇺 Australia

  10. 🇲🇾 Malaysia

Whether you’re a longtime tiramisu fan or a matcha dessert enthusiast, this fusion is a match made in culinary heaven.

👉 Craving more matcha goodness? Explore our Coconut Rice with Lime Zest to build a full Asian-inspired menu.

What You’ll Need 🧰🍓

Essential Kitchen Equipment 🧁

This no-bake dessert doesn’t require any fancy tools—just a few basic kitchen staples to whip up layers of creamy, fruity matcha bliss:

  • 8×8-inch glass dish – Ideal for clean layers and easy slicing

  • Individual serving cups or jars – Great for party portions or elegant presentations

  • Mixing bowls – For whipping cream and blending the mascarpone mixture

  • Electric mixer or whisk – To whip heavy cream into soft peaks

  • Spatula – For folding and spreading the cream evenly

  • Fine mesh strainer – Helps dust the matcha powder evenly across the top layer

💡 Entertaining Tip: Use wine glasses or clear dessert cups to showcase the beautiful green and pink layers when serving individually.

Fridge & Pantry Ingredients 🍵🍓

Here’s what you’ll need to create a strawberry-matcha masterpiece with a soft, creamy center and bold green tea finish:

  • Matcha powder (culinary grade) – The star of the show, providing a vibrant color and subtle bitterness

  • Fresh strawberries – Sliced for layering and topping

  • Ladyfingers (savoiardi) – Soak up the matcha and hold the structure

  • Mascarpone cheese – Adds rich, creamy texture to the filling

  • Heavy cream – Whips up into soft peaks for lightness

  • Sugar (granulated & powdered) – Balances tart fruit and earthy matcha

📌 Ingredient Note: Use culinary-grade matcha for bold color and flavor without the ceremonial price tag. Choose strawberries that are red throughout for optimal sweetness and appearance.

Ingredients 🧾🥄

Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu
Prepped ingredients for Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu displayed for easy assembly

For the Mascarpone Matcha Cream:

  • 3 large egg yolks

  • 1 tablespoon cognac (optional)

  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar

  • 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened

  • 1½ cups heavy whipping cream

  • 2 teaspoons matcha powder, sifted

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla bean powder (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Matcha Soak:

  • 1 cup water, heated to 170°F

  • 1½ tablespoons matcha powder

For Assembly:

  • 30–34 ladyfingers

  • 6–8 strawberries, stem removed and thinly sliced lengthwise

  • ⅓ cup matcha strawberry granola

  • Additional matcha powder, for dusting

📝 Prep Tip: Taste your strawberries—if they’re a bit tart, sprinkle lightly with sugar and let them sit 5–10 minutes to release their juices.

🍨 Looking for another creamy dessert idea? Try our Peach Burrata Caprese for a sweet-savory twist perfect for summer gatherings.

Instructions 👩‍🍳📋

  • Prepare the Mascarpone Matcha Cream:

    • In a large glass bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cognac (if using), and granulated sugar until combined.

    • Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water) to create a double boiler.

    • Whisk the mixture constantly until it lightens in color and becomes fluffy, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

    • Add the softened mascarpone cheese to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth. Set aside.Dona+1Dona+1

  • Whip the Cream:

    • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream, sifted matcha powder, vanilla bean powder (if using), and vanilla extract until medium peaks form.

    • Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.TikTok+5Dona+5Dona+5

  • Prepare the Matcha Soak:

    • In a shallow dish, whisk together the heated water and matcha powder until fully dissolved. Let it cool slightly.Dona

  • Assemble the Tiramisu:

    • Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the matcha soak, ensuring both sides are coated but not soggy.

    • Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch square glass dish.

    • Line the sides of the dish with sliced strawberries for a decorative touch.

    • Spread one-third of the mascarpone matcha cream over the ladyfingers.

    • Sprinkle half of the matcha strawberry granola over the cream layer.

    • Repeat the layers: soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone matcha cream, and granola.

    • Finish with a final layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone matcha cream, smoothing the top.

  • Chill and Serve:

    • Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

    • Before serving, dust the top with additional matcha powder for garnish.

🥢 Want a savory twist to pair with this dessert? Check out our Garlic Herb Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms for a stunning appetizer to start your meal.

Serving & Storage 🍽️❄️

Serving Tips: Make It a Moment ✨

Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu is not only delicious—it’s a visually striking dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or prepping ahead for a casual treat, here’s how to serve it like a pro:

  • Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor balance.

  • Use a sharp knife or offset spatula to cut clean squares from an 8×8 dish.

  • For individual servings, scoop into clear dessert glasses or mason jars to highlight the green matcha and pink strawberry layers.

  • Garnish with a dusting of matcha powder, extra strawberry slices, or white chocolate shavings just before serving.

  • Pair with a cold glass of sparkling sake, iced matcha latte, or green tea for a cohesive experience.

🍓 Presentation Tip: Top each serving with a whole strawberry and a light sprinkle of matcha just before bringing it to the table.

Storage Tips: Freshness Matters 🧊

Since this dessert is made with whipped cream and mascarpone, proper storage is key to maintaining its creamy texture and flavor.

  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Not freezer-friendly: the mascarpone and whipped cream will separate and lose texture once thawed.

  • Use plastic wrap or a fitted lid to prevent the dessert from absorbing fridge odors.

  • Always dust the final matcha topping right before serving to avoid discoloration.

📦 Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble it a day before your event and garnish the top just before serving for a polished finish.

Want more elegant no-bake dessert ideas? Try our Eclair Cake—a creamy, chilled classic made with graham crackers and pudding layers.

Variations 🌀🍫

Flavor Twists to Try 🌈

This no-bake treat is endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re looking to enhance the Japanese flavor profile or experiment with texture, these ideas will help make Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu your own:

  • 🍋 Add yuzu zest or extract to the mascarpone cream for a citrusy brightness that elevates the green tea flavor.

  • 🍫 Mix in white chocolate chips or drizzle a white chocolate ganache between layers for added sweetness and texture.

  • 🍰 Use green tea sponge cake or castella instead of ladyfingers for a softer, more traditional Japanese dessert base.

  • 🥥 Add coconut flakes between layers for a tropical undertone that complements both matcha and strawberries.

🍵 Flavor Hack: Sift matcha with a bit of powdered sugar before dusting—it balances the bitterness while keeping that vibrant green look.

Presentation Styles for Any Occasion 🎉

Whether serving at a formal dinner or prepping ahead for a picnic, how you present this tiramisu can make it even more memorable:

  • Mini dessert cups – Perfect for parties or afternoon tea. Layer all components in short glasses for mess-free serving.

  • Trifle-style bowl – Show off those eye-catching pink and green layers in a large clear bowl with multiple stacked layers.

  • Gluten-free version – Use certified GF ladyfingers or thin slices of gluten-free sponge cake.

  • Deconstructed version – Serve the matcha-soaked cookies with piped mascarpone cream and berries for a modern plating approach.

💡 Serving for kids? Use decaf matcha or green tea alternatives like barley tea (mugicha) for a milder flavor.

🌿 Looking for another unique spin on tiramisu? Try our Tiramisu-Inspired Overnight Oats—a breakfast-friendly twist with Italian flair.

FAQs ❓🍵

What does matcha tiramisu taste like?

Matcha tiramisu offers a balanced flavor profile—the matcha brings an earthy, slightly bitter note that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries and the creamy mascarpone. The result is refreshing, light, and layered, without being overly sweet.

🍓 Think of it as the green tea version of strawberry shortcake—with a creamy Italian twist.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This tiramisu is actually better when made in advance. For best results:

  • Chill at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the cream to firm up.

  • Add the final matcha dusting and fresh berry garnish just before serving to maintain visual appeal.

🧊 Storage Tip: Keep it tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What type of matcha should I use?

Use culinary-grade matcha for this recipe. It’s affordable, slightly more robust in flavor, and still offers that bright green color essential for visual appeal.

  • Avoid ceremonial grade—it’s more expensive and subtle, which isn’t necessary when mixed with cream and strawberries.

  • Look for matcha that’s vivid green and finely ground for best results.

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

Yes, though it will slightly change the texture and flavor:

  • Cream cheese is tangier and denser than mascarpone.

  • If substituting, consider blending with a spoonful of sour cream or heavy cream to soften the texture and mellow the sharpness.

🥄 Flavor Note: Your tiramisu may taste more like a strawberry matcha cheesecake—which isn’t a bad thing!

Looking for more no-bake fusion inspiration? Check out our Sticky Toffee Chia Pudding for a dessert that blends modern ingredients with nostalgic richness.

Conclusion 🍓🎌

Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu: A Refreshing Fusion Worth Repeating

Whether you’re a long-time fan of tiramisu or a matcha lover exploring new flavor frontiers, Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu delivers a harmonious blend of Italian tradition and Japanese elegance. It’s a dessert that checks all the boxes:

  • ✅ No-bake and beginner-friendly

  • ✅ Elegant enough for special occasions

  • ✅ Customizable with endless variations

  • ✅ Visually stunning and flavor-balanced

With vibrant layers of green tea-dipped ladyfingers, juicy strawberries, and fluffy mascarpone cream, it’s as satisfying to eat as it is to serve. Whether plated in squares, jars, or trifle bowls, it’s guaranteed to impress at any gathering—or just to treat yourself midweek.

Want More No-Bake Inspiration? ✨

Complete your dessert table with these flavorful favorites:

From Tokyo cafés to Tuscan kitchens, this global dessert mash-up proves that some pairings are simply meant to be.

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