Blackberry Tiramisu offers a refreshing, fruity variation on the classic Italian dessert. This no-bake treat features layers of delicate ladyfinger cookies, rich mascarpone cream, tart blackberry preserves, and juicy fresh blackberries—all finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. Elegant yet effortless, it’s an ideal choice for warm-weather entertaining or any time you crave a twist on tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Blackberry Tiramisu is everything you love about the original—creamy, layered, and indulgent—without the coffee or alcohol. The natural sweetness and tartness of blackberries add a vibrant contrast to the smooth mascarpone filling. It’s simple to assemble, requires no baking, and can be made ahead, making it a convenient and impressive dessert for brunches, picnics, or dinner parties.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blackberries (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup blackberry preserves or jam
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1/2 cup brewed black tea or fruit juice (optional for soaking)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
directions
- In a small bowl, mix the blackberry preserves with lemon juice. Gently fold in 1/2 cup of the fresh blackberries and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated and creamy.
- If using, lightly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled black tea or fruit juice—just enough to moisten without soaking.
- Arrange a single layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch glass dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smoothing evenly.
- Spoon half of the blackberry mixture over the cream layer.
- Repeat the process with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, remaining mascarpone cream, and remaining blackberry mixture.
- Smooth the top and dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Garnish with additional fresh blackberries.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 9 slices
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Calories: 310 kcal per slice
Variations
- Mixed Berry Tiramisu: Combine raspberries and blueberries with blackberries for a colorful variation.
- Lemon Cream: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the mascarpone mixture for extra brightness.
- Graham Layer: Substitute ladyfingers with graham crackers for a different texture.
- Mint Infusion: Add a few torn mint leaves to the blackberry mixture for a refreshing herbal note.
- Chocolate Blackberry: Add a layer of finely chopped dark chocolate between the mascarpone and fruit layers for depth.
storage/reheating
Store Blackberry Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is not suitable for freezing, as the texture of the mascarpone and fruit will degrade. Serve chilled, directly from the refrigerator—no reheating required.
FAQs
Can I make Blackberry Tiramisu in advance?
Yes, this dessert is best when chilled for several hours or overnight. It’s ideal for preparing a day ahead.
Do I have to use tea or juice to soak the ladyfingers?
No, soaking is optional. It softens the cookies, but they will still absorb moisture from the cream if skipped.
Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using to avoid making the dessert watery.
Is this recipe alcohol-free?
Yes, this version does not include alcohol, making it family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
What kind of tea works best?
Mild black tea or herbal fruit teas like berry or hibiscus are great options that complement the blackberries.
Can I substitute mascarpone?
You can use a combination of cream cheese and a little sour cream as a substitute, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
Do I need to cook the fruit?
No, the preserves provide sweetness and texture, while the fresh blackberries add natural tartness and freshness.
How do I know when the tiramisu is set?
After chilling, the dessert should hold its shape when sliced. A minimum of 4 hours is recommended.
Can I make this in individual servings?
Yes, layer the ingredients in small jars or cups for elegant individual portions.
Is cocoa powder necessary?
Cocoa powder adds a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness but can be omitted or replaced with grated chocolate if preferred.
Conclusion
Blackberry Tiramisu is a bright and creamy no-bake dessert that offers a refreshing departure from its coffee-based cousin. With its luscious layers, vibrant fruit, and effortless preparation, this dessert is perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Elegant enough for entertaining yet easy enough for everyday enjoyment, it’s a delightful way to celebrate seasonal berries in every spoonful.
PrintBlackberry Tiramisu
A fruity, no-bake twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Blackberry Tiramisu layers delicate ladyfingers with rich mascarpone cream, tart blackberry preserves, and fresh blackberries. Finished with a dusting of cocoa, it’s a refreshing and elegant treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blackberries (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup blackberry preserves or jam
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1/2 cup brewed black tea or fruit juice (optional, for soaking)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine blackberry preserves and lemon juice, then gently stir in 1/2 cup of fresh blackberries. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
- Optional: Lightly dip each ladyfinger in cooled black tea or fruit juice—do not oversoak.
- Arrange a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch glass dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, then top with half of the blackberry mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and blackberry mixture.
- Smooth the top and dust with unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Garnish with additional fresh blackberries.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- For a more intense berry flavor, mash some of the blackberries in the preserve layer.
- Use fruit juice instead of tea for a kid-friendly version.
- Chill overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
- Best served cold, directly from the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg