Jump to Recipe Print RecipeI’ll never forget the first time I took a bite of tiramisu rich with flavor and warmth; it was love at first taste. But when I discovered the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, it transformed my expectations of this classic dessert into something extraordinary. This delightful twist layers creamy mascarpone with luscious cherries infused with amaretto, making it an unforgettable treat perfect for any occasion. Not only is it an impressive centerpiece for gatherings, but it’s also a quick recipe that combines ease with elegance. As each spoonful captures the essence of sweet cherries and a hint of almond, it becomes a dessert that invites everyone to linger just a little longer at the table. So, how do we create this gorgeous masterpiece? Let’s dive in! Why is Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu a Must-Try? Elegant Simplicity: This recipe effortlessly combines rich layers of mascarpone and cherries with minimal fuss, ideal for busy home cooks. Decadent Flavor: The infusion of amaretto creates a sublime balance of sweetness and nuttiness, elevating this dessert beyond the ordinary. Versatile Choice: Feel free to experiment with various fruits or even make a non-alcoholic version easily! Impressive Presentation: With its stunning layers and dusting of cocoa, your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is sure to wow guests at any gathering. Quick to Prepare: Despite its elegant look and flavor, this dessert comes together quickly, letting you enjoy your time with loved ones. For more delightful dessert inspiration, check out our Baked Tiramisu Cheesecake for a twist on another classic! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ingredients • Here’s what you’ll need for your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu! For the Cream Mixture Mascarpone Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy texture. Substitution: Cream cheese can be used but alters flavor slightly. Heavy Cream – Adds lightness and enhances creaminess. Amaretto Liqueur – Infuses a boozy sweetness unique to this tiramisu. Substitution: Non-alcoholic version can use almond extract mixed with water or cherry juice. Cherry Juice – Adds tartness and moisture. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mascarpone mixture. Cherry Preserves – Enhances cherry flavor. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor. Fresh Cherries (pitted and chopped) – Offers bursts of sweetness and texture. Note: Frozen cherries can also be used; thaw and drain them well beforehand. For the Ladyfinger Layer Ladyfingers – Serve as the base of the tiramisu, absorbing flavors without becoming soggy. Quick dips are crucial. For the Finish Cocoa Powder – Dust the top for a classic finish. Dark Chocolate (shaved or grated) – Adds extra richness and visual appeal. Now that you have all the essential ingredients, you’re ready to create your stunning Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Step 1: Prepare the Cream Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mascarpone cheese and 1 cup of heavy cream. Using a hand mixer, beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, resembling soft peaks. Make sure there are no lumps, as this ensures a creamy Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Set aside while you prepare the next steps. Step 2: Incorporate Flavors Add 1/4 cup of amaretto liqueur, 1/4 cup of cherry juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the whipped cream mixture. Continue mixing on low speed for 1-2 minutes until fully incorporated. The cream will start to take on a delightful aroma from the almond and cherry; this will be the flavor foundation for your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Step 3: Blend in Sweetness In a separate small bowl, blend together 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of cherry preserves until smooth. Gently fold this sweet mixture into the mascarpone cream using a spatula. Ensure the sugar is dissolved, which will contribute to the overall sweetness of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Be careful not to overmix, keeping the mixture light and airy. Step 4: Add Fresh Cherries Delicately fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh cherries (pitted) into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout. This step adds beautiful fruity flavor to your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, giving the dessert texture and bursts of sweetness. Be cautious not to crush the cherries, as you want to retain their shape. Step 5: Prepare Ladyfingers In a shallow dish, combine 1/2 cup of amaretto liqueur and 1/2 cup of cherry juice. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture, turning them just until moist but not soggy—about 1-2 seconds on each side. Layering the ladyfingers correctly will help create the ideal base for your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Step 6: First Layer of Ladyfingers Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish. Ensure they cover the entire base without gaps; this will act as the foundation for your dessert. The ladyfingers will absorb the flavors of the cherry juice and amaretto, enhancing the overall taste of the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Step 7: Spread Mascarpone Mixture Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the layer of ladyfingers, using a spatula to ensure an even layer. Smooth it out until it has the same thickness across the dish. The creamy layer should beautifully contrast the cookies beneath, setting the stage for the next layer of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Step 8: Repeat with Ladyfingers Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers on top of the mascarpone mixture, just like the first layer. Again, ensure that each ladyfinger is evenly dampened but not overly soaked. This will create a perfectly balanced texture and flavor in your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, as each bite will be deliciously harmonious. Step 9: Final Mascarpone Layer Pour the remaining mascarpone mixture over the second layer of ladyfingers and spread it evenly, making sure to cover the ladyfingers completely. This top layer of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is crucial for a smooth and indulgent finish. Make sure the edges are also covered to prevent drying during refrigeration. Step 10: Chill and Set Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a rich and creamy Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. The longer it sits, the better the taste will be when served. Step 11: Add Cocoa and Chocolate Once ready to serve, remove the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu from the refrigerator. Lightly dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle some shaved dark chocolate for an elegant finish. The contrasting colors will enhance the presentation, making it a showstopper at your gatherings. Storage Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Fridge: Keep your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving. Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled, so avoid reheating. If desired, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors. Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your family’s tastes! Berry Bliss: Swap fresh cherries for raspberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist. Non-Alcoholic Delight: Replace amaretto with almond extract mixed with cherry juice for a delicious alternative. Chocolate Crunch: Use chocolate ladyfingers instead of regular ones for an extra layer of flavor. Nutty Cream: Fold in chopped toasted almonds to the mascarpone mixture for a delightful crunch and nuttiness. Coconut Boost: Add a sprinkle of shredded coconut to enhance both flavor and texture; this gives a tropical flair. Coffee Kick: Incorporate a shot of espresso into the mascarpone mixture for a mocha-inspired tiramisu, perfect for coffee lovers. Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream mixture to brighten up the flavors and add a citrusy note. Cherry Almond Combo: For added flavor, drizzle some almond extract over the ladyfingers before layering for a nuanced taste. For more inspiration, consider trying our stunning Baked Tiramisu Cheesecake for another delightful dessert twist! Make Ahead Options Preparing Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu ahead of time is a brilliant way to save yourself effort on busy days! You can make the mascarpone mixture and layer it with dipped ladyfingers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together beautifully. To maintain quality, avoid soaking the ladyfingers too long; a quick dip is essential to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply dust the top with cocoa powder and add the shaved chocolate right before presentation for that fabulous finish. This allows you to enjoy delicious, homemade Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu with all the luxuriousness and none of the last-minute stress! Expert Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ladyfinger Technique: Quick dips are critical; immerse the ladyfingers for just 1-2 seconds to avoid sogginess that can ruin your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Chilling Time: Allow the dessert to chill overnight if possible. This resting period enhances flavor melding and gives it a more luxurious texture. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality mascarpone and dark chocolate to elevate the flavor profile of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Cherry Substitutes: If fresh cherries are out of season, opt for thawed frozen cherries; just drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your dessert. Serving Size Tip: Cut the tiramisu with a sharp knife to achieve clean edges. This makes each slice look inviting and appetizing for your guests! What to Serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Looking to create an unforgettable meal around your delightful dessert? Here are some scrumptious pairings to enhance your dining experience. Bold Espresso: The richness of a dark, flavorful espresso complements the sweet almonds and cherries, bringing out the dessert’s delicious nuances. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These add a playful freshness and a romantic touch, perfectly balancing the creamy layers of the tiramisu. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A savory side that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the tiramisu, their velvety texture creates a comforting meal. Savory Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, this adds a crunch and zest that’s refreshing before indulging in the rich savoriness of the tiramisu. Berry Compote: A tart and sweet blend of berries enhances the cherry flavors, making each bite of tiramisu even more delightful. Dessert Wine: Consider a sweet dessert wine that pairs well with the amaretto, enhancing the flavors and completing the meal’s indulgent vibe. Cheesecake Bites: Providing a delightful contrast to your dessert, these mini treats allow for a variety of textures and innovative flavor combinations. It makes for playful bites alongside your tiramisu. Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs What type of cherries should I use for the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? Fresh, ripe cherries are ideal for this recipe as they provide bursts of sweetness and texture. Look for cherries that are plump and firm, avoiding any with dark spots or blemishes. If fresh cherries aren’t available, you can use thawed frozen cherries, but ensure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your dessert. How long can I store Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in the refrigerator? You can keep your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. After this time, the texture may begin to lose its freshness, and the vibrant flavors may fade. Enjoy it within this window for the best experience! Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, and how should I do it? Absolutely! To freeze your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 1 month in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. For the best texture, avoid reheating; just serve it chilled. What if my ladyfingers become too soggy during dipping? Oh no! If your ladyfingers become overly soggy, try placing the dipped ladyfingers on a wire rack to allow excess liquid to drip off. If you notice they’re getting soft, you may want to reduce dipping time to just 1 second per side. Quick dips are essential; you want them moist but not falling apart, ensuring a perfect structure for your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu! Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu contains gluten from the ladyfingers and alcohol from the amaretto, so it isn’t gluten-free or suitable for those avoiding alcohol. If you need to make it non-alcoholic, you can substitute the amaretto with a mixture of almond extract and cherry juice for a delightful flavor without the alcohol. Always check ingredients for potential allergens! Can I make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in advance? Yes! In fact, making Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu a day in advance enhances its flavor as it has more time to set and the layers meld beautifully. Just cover the dish with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings! Indulge in Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu for Effortless Elegance Experience the extraordinary Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, a delightful twist on the classic dessert that combines creamy mascarpone with cherries and amaretto. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cream Mixture1 cup Mascarpone Cheese Provides a rich, creamy texture.1 cup Heavy Cream Adds lightness and enhances creaminess.1/4 cup Amaretto Liqueur Infuses a boozy sweetness.1/4 cup Cherry Juice Adds tartness and moisture.1/3 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the mascarpone mixture.1/4 cup Cherry Preserves Enhances cherry flavor.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Adds depth of flavor.1 cup Fresh Cherries (pitted and chopped) Offers bursts of sweetness and texture.For the Ladyfinger Layer1 package Ladyfingers Serve as the base, absorbing flavors.For the Finish1 tablespoon Cocoa Powder Dust the top for a classic finish.1 cup Dark Chocolate (shaved or grated) Adds richness and visual appeal. Equipment Mixing bowlhand mixerSpatulaShallow Dish9x9-inch Baking Dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mascarpone cheese and 1 cup of heavy cream. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and fluffy.Add 1/4 cup of amaretto liqueur, 1/4 cup of cherry juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix on low speed for 1-2 minutes until fully incorporated.In a separate bowl, blend together 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of cherry preserves until smooth. Fold this mixture into the mascarpone cream.Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh cherries into the mascarpone mixture.In a shallow dish, combine 1/2 cup of amaretto liqueur and 1/2 cup of cherry juice. Dip each ladyfinger into the mixture for 1-2 seconds.Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9x9-inch baking dish.Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the layer of ladyfingers.Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers on top of the mascarpone mixture.Pour the remaining mascarpone mixture over the second layer of ladyfingers and spread it evenly.Cover the baking dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.Dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle shaved dark chocolate before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg NotesQuick dips are critical for ladyfingers; immerse for just 1-2 seconds to avoid sogginess. Use high-quality ingredients for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
