Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8 x 8-inch glass pan.
  2. In a large bowl beat cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and well blended.
  3. Gradually fold in the thawed Cool Whip (or 3 cups whipped cream if using) until completely blended.
  4. In a small bowl combine coffee and coffee-flavored liqueur (if using).
  5. Line the pan with enough ladyfinger halves to cover the bottom (place rounded sides down) if necessary cut ladyfingers to fit the dish.
  6. Spoon 1/3 cup of the coffee mixture over the ladyfingers.
  7. Top with 1/3 of the cheese mixture (about 1 cup) then spread out evenly.
  8. Layer 1/3 of the slices strawberries over the cheese.
  9. Repeat two more times ending with the cheese mixture (reserve the remaining strawberries to place on top before serving, place berries into a bowl, cover and refrigerate).
  10. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tiramisu for a minimum of 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
  11. BEFORE SERVING; remove the plastic wrap, then sift the cocoa powder over the top, then arrange the reserved strawberry slices over the cocoa.
  12. Serve immediately.