There’s something instantly irresistible about the fusion of flavors in strawberry matcha tiramisu. This recipe blends the bright sweetness of strawberries with the earthy elegance of matcha green tea, layered into a creamy, no-bake dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious. In this article, you’ll discover why this East-meets-West treat is winning hearts, how to make it perfectly at home, and what common mistakes to avoid so every bite is smooth, rich, and unforgettable.
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Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu – Unbelievably Delicious No-Bake Dream Dessert
- Total Time: 4 hours (with chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Strawberry matcha tiramisu is the perfect no-bake dessert for fans of fusion treats. This dreamy layered recipe brings together earthy matcha and juicy strawberries in every creamy bite.
Ingredients
2 tsp ceremonial grade matcha powder
1/2 cup hot water
1 cup fresh strawberries (half pureed, half sliced)
8 oz mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 pack ladyfingers (Savoiardi)
Extra matcha powder for dusting
Instructions
1. Whisk matcha powder with hot water until smooth and frothy. Let cool.
2. Puree half of the strawberries and slice the other half.
3. In a bowl, beat mascarpone, whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
4. Dip ladyfingers quickly into cooled matcha tea.
5. Layer dipped ladyfingers in a dish.
6. Spread mascarpone mixture evenly over ladyfingers.
7. Spoon strawberry purée and add sliced strawberries on top.
8. Repeat with another layer of matcha-dipped ladyfingers and cream.
9. Top with a final layer of cream and dust with matcha.
10. Chill for 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
Use full-fat mascarpone for best texture.
Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers.
For extra flavor, add white chocolate shavings between layers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: No Bake Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: strawberry matcha tiramisu, no bake tiramisu, matcha dessert
Why Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu is a Must-Try
My First Bite of Strawberry Matcha Magic
I’ll never forget the first time I tried strawberry matcha tiramisu. I was visiting a cozy café in Seattle—one of those places that somehow makes matcha feel both trendy and timeless. The waiter recommended it, describing it as a “Japanese twist on Italian indulgence.” I took a bite, and wow—it was everything. Creamy mascarpone layered with matcha-soaked ladyfingers, punctuated by sweet-tart strawberries. It was unexpected and comforting all at once.
As someone who grew up helping my grandmother whip up classic tiramisu, I didn’t think it could be improved. But this version? It was like tasting tradition reborn. It sparked something in me—the kind of inspiration that makes you race home to recreate it. And of course, I had to share the result with you.
What Makes This Fusion Dessert So Special
Strawberry matcha tiramisu isn’t just trendy—it’s smart. Matcha’s slightly bitter depth balances the sweetness of strawberries, while creamy layers hold it all together. This dessert doesn’t just taste amazing—it looks gorgeous too. The green and red hues layered in a clear dish make it a showstopper for any occasion.
Plus, it’s no-bake and surprisingly simple to assemble. Whether you’re already a tiramisu lover or curious about matcha desserts, this recipe offers something new that feels instantly familiar.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional tiramisu or looking to try something new, strawberry matcha tiramisu is an unforgettable way to explore flavor fusion at its best.
Ingredients & Flavor Harmony – Why It Works
Are Strawberry and Matcha Good Together?
At first glance, you might not expect strawberry and matcha to pair well. But when done right, they create an absolutely incredible flavor balance. Strawberries bring bright acidity and natural sweetness, while matcha offers a slightly bitter, grassy note with a hint of umami. Together, they form a layered experience that keeps your palate intrigued with every bite.
This pairing has gained popularity in modern Japanese desserts, and for good reason. Matcha calms the sugary edge of strawberries, while strawberries lift matcha’s intensity. It’s a relationship built on contrast—and it’s what makes strawberry matcha tiramisu a standout among fusion desserts.
If you’re a fan of layered, visually stunning treats, you’ll also love my raspberry lemon icebox cake—another no-bake favorite that relies on bold fruit-forward combinations to surprise and delight.
Key Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen
You don’t need anything fancy to make strawberry matcha tiramisu, but each ingredient plays a key role. Let’s break down what you’ll need—and why it matters.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Matcha Powder (ceremonial grade) | Provides earthy flavor and vibrant green color |
| Fresh Strawberries | Adds juicy texture and natural sweetness |
| Mascarpone Cheese | Classic tiramisu base—creamy and rich |
| Whipped Cream | Lightens the mascarpone for that airy texture |
| Ladyfingers (Savoiardi) | Soaks up matcha liquid and forms the cake layers |
| Sugar & Vanilla | Balances tartness and adds warmth |
To brew matcha for dipping your ladyfingers, whisk 2 teaspoons of matcha with 1/2 cup hot water until smooth and frothy. You’ll also use some strawberry puree or fresh strawberry slices between layers for added punch.
If you love creative desserts that look as good as they taste, this strawberry matcha tiramisu will earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
How to Make Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu (Step-by-Step)
What Is Matcha Tiramisu?
Making strawberry matcha tiramisu at home is easier than you think—and way more rewarding than grabbing a slice from the store.
When you introduce strawberries into the mix, it becomes a whole new level of indulgence. The fruit brings brightness, soft acidity, and just the right amount of juiciness. As you alternate between matcha-soaked cookies and strawberry layers, each bite becomes a discovery. That’s the heart of strawberry matcha tiramisu.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to building it right:
- Make the matcha dip: Whisk high-quality matcha with hot water until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare the strawberry layer: Blend half your strawberries into a puree. Slice the rest for layering.
- Whip the cream: Combine mascarpone, whipped cream, vanilla, and a touch of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Dip & layer: Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the matcha. Don’t soak them—just a quick touch! Layer them into a dish.
- Add cream and strawberries: Spread on mascarpone mixture, spoon strawberry puree, then sliced berries.
- Repeat layers: Ladyfingers → cream → strawberries.
- Top it off: Dust with matcha powder before serving.
Let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. Like many of my chill-and-serve recipes—such as this no-bake tiramisu pie—time enhances the flavor and structure beautifully.
Tips and What Not to Do When Making Tiramisu
Let’s be honest, tiramisu has its traps. Here’s what to avoid if you want your strawberry matcha tiramisu to turn out flawless:
- Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers. A second too long in the matcha and you’ll end up with soggy mush instead of soft sponge.
- Don’t skip chilling time. The dessert needs hours to set up properly. Serve it too soon and it’ll collapse.
- Don’t use low-fat mascarpone. It won’t hold structure or flavor the same way. Use full-fat for the richest taste.
- Don’t use culinary-grade matcha. Stick with ceremonial grade for a smooth, non-bitter taste and vibrant green color.
If you’re new to working with matcha, try making a smaller batch first.
Can Starbucks Do a Strawberry Matcha?
You might’ve seen the strawberry matcha latte trend on social media—and yes, it’s very real. Starbucks has a “secret menu” version of this combo where customers request a layered iced drink with matcha, milk, and strawberry purée. It’s delicious, but it’s not tiramisu.
That said, the flavor profile of that drink definitely inspired this dessert. The key difference? Texture. While the Starbucks version is a refreshing sip, strawberry matcha tiramisu delivers a rich, spoonable experience with layers you can sink into. It’s more satisfying and way more decadent.
If you’re a fan of recreating café favorites at home, you’ll love my copycat caramel milk tea pie—it’s a dessert version of a classic boba drink, just like this tiramisu is to matcha lattes.
Fun Variations and Creative Twists
You can even turn this strawberry matcha tiramisu into a showstopping holiday dessert by layering it in trifle bowls or adding whipped cream stars on top.
One of my favorite things about no-bake desserts is how easy they are to adapt. Here are a few fun ways to remix your strawberry matcha tiramisu without sacrificing flavor:
- Make it in cups: Use small jars or cups for individual servings—perfect for parties and fridge-friendly meal prep.
- Add white chocolate shavings: On top or between layers for a creamy surprise.
- Swap strawberries for raspberries: If strawberries aren’t in season, raspberries add a tart twist.
- Use a pistachio layer: Add crushed pistachios for a nutty crunch and beautiful color contrast.
Planning a dessert table? Pair this with my Banana Pudding with Biscoff Cookies or No-Bake Biscoff Cake Roll for an easy no-bake trio.
Conclusion
Strawberry matcha tiramisu is more than a trend—it’s a celebration of flavor contrast and creativity. With every layer, it honors the heart of classic tiramisu while infusing it with Japanese flair and fruity freshness. Whether you serve it in elegant slices or mason jars, it’s the kind of dessert that turns heads and starts conversations.
If you’re ready to try something that’s both familiar and fresh, this is it. Light enough for summer, rich enough for winter, and easy enough for any level of baker—you’re going to want this recipe on repeat.
Save this strawberry matcha tiramisu recipe and make it the highlight of your next gathering—your guests won’t stop talking about it.
FAQ:
Are strawberry and matcha good together?
Yes, they’re a naturally balanced pair. Matcha’s slight bitterness and grassy tones offset strawberry’s sweetness and acidity, making them ideal in layered desserts like tiramisu.
What is tiramisu matcha?
It’s a fusion dessert that replaces espresso with matcha. Typically made with mascarpone, matcha-soaked ladyfingers, and a matcha dusting on top, it’s rich, creamy, and earthy.
Can Starbucks do a strawberry matcha?
Yes! While not on the official menu, you can ask for a strawberry purée layer with iced matcha. It’s a refreshing drink—not a dessert—but the flavor combo is similar.
What not to do when making tiramisu?
Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers, rush the chilling time, use low-fat mascarpone, or choose bitter matcha. Stick to full-fat ingredients and ceremonial grade matcha for best results.