Strawberries and Cream Dream

May 20th is National Pick Strawberries Day, and tomorrow, May 21 is National Strawberries and Cream Day. While fresh strawberries and whipped cream alone are hard to beat..my Strawberry Tiramisu is a truly decadent treat worthy of a celebration. Since it's been the hit of many of my recent events, I wanted to share it with all of you.

Tiramisu alleFragole/Strawberry Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a great dessert to make when entertaining, because it can be done ahead of time. Strawberry Tiramisu is one of the first recipes Italian kids learn to make, and it has been widely popular for the last few decades. This is a recipe that Amy’s been making for years. Prepared without the coffee and alcohol in the original version, it’s perfect treat for all ages. This recipe is best served in the spring and early summer when strawberries are at their peak.

Serves 4 to 6

Ingredients:

3 large egg yolks (pasteurized, if desired, see note at bottom)

1 cup sugar

1 cup mascarpone cheese, chilled 

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup strawberry puree (made from pureeing fresh strawberries)

1 cup freshly sliced strawberries

2 teaspoons vanilla

24 plain lady fingers

Preparation:

In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer set on high speed, beat together the egg yolks and sugar until pale yellow, smooth and shiny (about 5 minutes). Add the mascarpone and continue to beat until smooth (about 3 to 5 minutes).

In another bowl, using clean beaters, whip the cream until soft peaks form.

Using a rubber spatula or whisk, fold the whipped cream into the yolk mixture until blended.

Arrange 12 lady fingers in a single layer over the bottom of a decorative serving bowl (10 inches in diameter).

Mix strawberry puree and vanilla in a medium bowl and whisk to combine.

Brush some of the strawberry puree evenly over the lady fingers. Turn lady fingers over and brush again until each one is soaked through with the strawberry puree.

Spoon some of the mascarpone over the ladyfingers in an even ½-inch layer.

Place remaining 12 lady fingers in a single layer over mascarpone mixture. Brush their tops with strawberry puree to soak. Spoon remaining mascarpone over the top.

Cover and chill for 6 hours to overnight before serving.

To serve, place strawberries on top and scoop individual portions onto plates.

Note: Traditional Tiramisu is made with raw eggs. Consuming raw or undercooked eggs may increase your risk of food borne illness. Substitute pasteurized eggs if necessary.