If you’ve ever thought tiramisu couldn’t get any better, wait until you try this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe. It’s a luscious twist on the classic Italian dessert, bringing together the rich, creamy mascarpone with the bright burst of cherries and the warm, nutty flavor of amaretto liqueur. Every spoonful feels like a celebration, balancing sweet and boozy notes with delicate textures that melt in your mouth. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for impressing guests or treating yourself to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but incredibly important—they each bring something unique to the table. From the silky mascarpone giving that luxurious creaminess, to the fresh cherries adding a pop of color and tartness, everything works together harmoniously to create a memorable dessert experience.
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese: This creamy delight is the heart of your tiramisu, providing richness and velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it adds fluffiness and lightness to the filling.
- 1/3 cup sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone mixture just enough to balance the tart cherries and strong amaretto.
- 1/4 cup amaretto liqueur: Brings that signature almond-flavored warmth and a touch of boozy charm.
- 1 cup fresh cherries, halved: Fresh and juicy, they add brightness and a lovely jewel-like color contrasted against the cream.
- 12 ladyfinger cookies: Perfect for soaking up the amaretto or cherry juice while still holding their shape.
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting): Finishes the dessert with a slightly bitter cocoa note and a dusting of elegance.
- Optional: cherry juice or extra amaretto for dipping: Enhances the flavor of the ladyfingers and adds moisture for that perfect bite.
How to Make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Having everything ready before you start mixing makes the process smooth and enjoyable. Fresh cherries, creamy mascarpone, and all the components should be laid out for quick access.
Step 2: Whip the Heavy Cream
In a clean bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This will provide a light and airy texture that balances the dense mascarpone, creating the perfect filling.
Step 3: Blend Mascarpone and Sugar
Take another bowl and beat the mascarpone cheese with sugar until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. This step ensures there are no lumps and that sweetness is evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Fold in the Amaretto
Gently add the amaretto liqueur to the mascarpone mixture, folding it in to maintain that fluffy consistency while infusing the dessert with its signature almond flavor.
Step 5: Dip the Ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into cherry juice or the extra amaretto—just enough to soak them lightly without becoming mushy. This step infuses them with flavor and moisture, crucial for building layers.
Step 6: Layer Your Dessert
Start with a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the base of your dish. Then spread a layer of the creamy mascarpone mixture, followed by halved fresh cherries. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a mascarpone topping.
Step 7: Chill Thoroughly
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least four hours, though overnight chilling is best. This resting period allows all the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften perfectly.
Step 8: Add the Finishing Touch
Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder. This final touch adds a beautiful contrast and a subtle bitterness that balances the dessert’s sweetness.
How to Serve Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra fresh cherries or a handful of toasted almond slices on top of your tiramisu for an eye-catching presentation and delightful crunch. A light drizzle of amaretto over the garnish can elevate the flavors even further.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple espresso or a glass of sweet white wine like Moscato. If you want to add more fruit, a fresh berry salad complements the aldehydic notes of amaretto beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider making individual parfaits by layering the tiramisu components in clear glasses. This lets the gorgeous cherry and mascarpone layers shine through, making it perfect for entertaining or portion control.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe leftovers can be covered tightly with plastic wrap and kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors only deepen with time, making each bite even better the next day.
Freezing
Although tiramisu can be frozen, the texture of the mascarpone and cherries may change slightly. If you choose to freeze it, cover tightly and store for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. Instead, simply remove it from the fridge about 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off slightly without losing its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your tiramisu, which could make the layers soggy.
Is there an alcohol-free version of this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the amaretto liqueur with almond extract and cherry juice for dipping the ladyfingers to keep the flavor profile without the alcohol content.
What type of mascarpone cheese should I buy?
Look for authentic, high-quality mascarpone in the refrigerated cheese section. It should be creamy and smooth, not dry or grainy, as that affects the final texture of your tiramisu.
Can I prepare this dessert in individual portions?
Definitely! Layering the ingredients in small glasses or ramekins not only looks beautiful but also makes serving easy and fun.
How long should I refrigerate the tiramisu before serving?
At least four hours is recommended, though overnight chilling is ideal. This resting time allows the layers to meld and ensures the ladyfingers soften to the perfect, delicate texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that feels indulgent yet fresh, rich yet balanced, the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe is your new best friend. It’s easy to make, effortlessly impressive, and packed with flavors that delight every bite. Try this at your next gathering or simply as a treat for yourself—you’ll find it hard to resist second helpings!
Print
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A luscious and elegant Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu that combines creamy mascarpone, fresh cherries, and the subtle almond flavor of amaretto liqueur. This no-bake dessert layers delicate ladyfinger cookies soaked in cherry juice or amaretto with a rich mascarpone cream and juicy cherries, dusted with cocoa powder for a perfect finish. Ideal for special occasions or a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Cream Mixture
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup amaretto liqueur
Base and Topping
- 12 ladyfinger cookies
- 1 cup fresh cherries, halved
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Optional: cherry juice or extra amaretto for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients to ensure a smooth preparation process.
- Whip Heavy Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, which provides a light and airy texture to the cream mixture.
- Mix Mascarpone and Sugar: In another bowl, combine mascarpone cheese with sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a rich base for the tiramisu.
- Incorporate Amaretto: Gently fold the amaretto liqueur into the mascarpone mixture, blending the flavors without deflating the cream.
- Soak Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger cookie in cherry juice or extra amaretto just long enough to moisten without becoming soggy, then layer them evenly in your serving dish.
- Layer the Dessert: Alternate layers of soaked ladyfingers with dollops of the creamy mascarpone mixture and halved fresh cherries to build the tiramisu layers.
- Chill: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight refrigeration allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, dust the top evenly with cocoa powder for a classic and elegant presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor, and remove pits before halving.
- If desired, substitute cherry juice with strong brewed coffee for a different taste.
- Ensure ladyfingers are dipped briefly to avoid sogginess.
- The dessert can be prepared a day ahead for enhanced flavor melding.
- Leftover tiramisu should be stored covered in the refrigerator and consumed within 2 days.
