Step 1

Start by softening the cream cheese. Ensure it’s at room temperature, then use a whisk or electric mixer to beat it until it’s smooth and creamy, with no lumps.

Step 2

Add the honey (or sugar) and sour cream (or plain yogurt) to the softened cream cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This creates your luscious tiramisu cream!

Step 3

Transfer the finished cheese cream into a piping bag. If you want a decorative finish, use a star tip. (This step is optional; you can also spoon the cream.)

Step 4

Prepare your store-bought Castella cake. Cut it into pieces that will fit snugly into your chosen serving dish or mold. Aim for slices about 1-1.5 cm thick.

Step 5

Arrange a layer of the cut Castella cake at the bottom of your clear serving dish or individual glasses. Ensure there are no gaps.

Step 6

Spoon or brush the coffee syrup generously over the Castella layer. To make the syrup, dissolve instant coffee in hot water at a 2:5 ratio. Soak the cake well for a good coffee flavor infusion.

Step 7

Now, pipe or spoon a generous layer of the cheese cream over the coffee-soaked Castella. Don’t be shy with the cream; it’s the star of the show!

Step 8

Add another layer of Castella cake on top of the cheese cream.

Step 9

Just like the first layer, soak this Castella layer with coffee syrup. Let it absorb the liquid for a moment.

Step 10

Pipe or spoon the remaining cheese cream over the second Castella layer. You can get creative with your piping here – perhaps try dollops or swirls for a beautiful finish.

Step 11

Dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. Your classic Tiramisu is complete! For the best texture and flavor, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Step 12

Step 13

In a bowl, gently toss the diced strawberries with 50g of strawberry jam or honey and 4g of lemon juice. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to macerate; this will release their juices and enhance their flavor.

Step 14

Line the bottom of your clear serving dish with a layer of Castella cake. Then, arrange sliced fresh strawberries around the inner edge of the dish to create a decorative border.

Step 15

Fill the spaces between the strawberries and the cake with the cheese cream. Piping makes this step neat and tidy.

Step 16

Generously pile the honey-macerated strawberries into the center of the dish. Loading up on the strawberries ensures a burst of flavor with every bite.

Step 17

Cover the strawberries with another layer of cheese cream. Smooth the top surface for a clean presentation.

Step 18

Finally, decorate the top with fresh whole or halved strawberries. Your Strawberry Tiramisu is ready! Chill thoroughly before serving for optimal taste and texture.

Step 19

Classic Tiramisu: It’s incredibly smooth, with a rich cheese flavor that melts in your mouth. The balanced sweetness perfectly complements the slight bitterness of the coffee for a truly delightful experience.

Step 20

Strawberry Tiramisu: Sweet and tangy, this version is incredibly delicious! The abundance of fresh strawberries provides a wonderful texture, making it a highly recommended dessert for cozy winter home baking.