Dragon Fruit Tiramisu is a tropical twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the creamy richness of mascarpone with the vibrant flavor and color of dragon fruit. This no-bake dessert layers sponge or ladyfinger biscuits soaked in a subtly sweet syrup with a luscious mascarpone filling, finished with a striking pink dragon fruit purée. It’s a refreshing and visually captivating dessert that offers a unique experience for your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Dragon Fruit Tiramisu stands out for its vivid color and tropical flavor, making it a delightful dessert for special occasions or casual gatherings. It requires no baking, making it an ideal choice for warm-weather months or when you want an elegant dessert without turning on the oven. With the light, airy texture of traditional tiramisu and a fruity spin, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dragon fruit (preferably red-fleshed for vibrant color)
Mascarpone cheese
Heavy cream
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
Fresh lemon juice (optional, for syrup)
Water
Powdered sugar (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Prepare the dragon fruit purée: Scoop out the flesh of the dragon fruit and blend until smooth. Set aside a portion for layering and another for garnish.
Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Heat until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool.
Prepare the cream filling: In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
Assemble the tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled syrup and place a layer in a serving dish. Spread a layer of the mascarpone filling over the biscuits, followed by a thin layer of dragon fruit purée. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of mascarpone mixture on top.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Serve: Before serving, top with the reserved dragon fruit purée or garnish with small dragon fruit cubes and a light dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4–8 hours (overnight preferred)
Total Time: Approximately 4.5–8.5 hours

Variations

Coconut twist: Add a few tablespoons of coconut milk to the mascarpone mixture for an extra tropical layer of flavor.
Vegan version: Use plant-based whipped cream, vegan cream cheese or mascarpone, and egg-free ladyfingers.
Alcohol-infused: Add a splash of coconut rum or fruit liqueur to the soaking syrup for a boozy variation.
Mixed fruit: Combine dragon fruit with mango or passionfruit purée for added complexity.
Mini servings: Assemble the tiramisu in individual glasses or jars for a portable and elegant presentation.

Storage/reheating

Store the Dragon Fruit Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since it contains dairy, it should not be left out at room temperature for extended periods. This dessert is not suitable for freezing, as the texture of the cream and fruit may change upon thawing. Reheating is not necessary, as tiramisu is served chilled.

FAQs

What type of dragon fruit should I use?

Red-fleshed dragon fruit is recommended for its vibrant color and slightly sweeter taste, but white-fleshed varieties can also be used.

Can I use frozen dragon fruit?

Yes, thawed frozen dragon fruit works well in this recipe, especially for making purée.

Is this dessert very sweet?

Dragon Fruit Tiramisu is moderately sweet, with the natural fruit flavor balancing the richness of the mascarpone cream.

What can I use instead of ladyfingers?

Sponge cake or vanilla pound cake slices can be used as an alternative to ladyfingers.

Can I make this tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, it’s best when made a day in advance to allow the flavors to develop and the dessert to set properly.

How long can I keep leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Can I make this without mascarpone?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese or a combination of cream cheese and Greek yogurt, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

Does the dragon fruit need to be cooked?

No, dragon fruit is used raw in this recipe. It is blended into a purée for a fresh, fruity layer.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cake alternatives to make this dessert gluten-free.

Is tiramisu traditionally made with fruit?

Traditional tiramisu is coffee-based, but fruit versions like this one are creative adaptations that offer a refreshing twist.

Conclusion

Dragon Fruit Tiramisu is a delightful reinvention of a classic dessert, offering a tropical flair and eye-catching presentation. It’s light, creamy, and subtly sweet, making it a perfect end to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply exploring new flavors, this recipe delivers both elegance and indulgence in every bite.

Dragon Fruit Tiramisu

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Dragon Fruit Tiramisu is a tropical twist on the classic Italian dessert, blending the sweet, exotic flavor of dragon fruit with creamy mascarpone layers. A perfect no-bake dessert for summer gatherings or to impress your guests with something unique and colorful.

Instructions

In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with half the sugar (1/4 cup) until stiff peaks form.
In another bowl, combine mascarpone, vanilla extract, and the remaining sugar. Mix until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.
In a shallow dish, mix dragon fruit puree with lemon juice. In another shallow bowl, pour in the coconut milk.
Dip each ladyfinger briefly in coconut milk, then layer in a serving dish.
Spread a layer of mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
Spoon a thin layer of dragon fruit puree on top.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mascarpone.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Before serving, garnish with fresh dragon fruit cubes and mint leaves.

Notes

Use ripe pink dragon fruit for a vibrant color.
Can be served in individual cups or a large trifle dish.
Adjust sweetness based on the natural sugar content of the dragon fruit.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: Fusion / Italian-Inspired