Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun sets, casting a golden hue across the kitchen, I find myself craving something sweet yet sophisticated. Enter the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu—a delightful twist on the traditional Italian classic that I can’t resist. This easy dessert not only showcases luscious layers of creamy mascarpone but also dances with the fruity freshness of cherries and the distinct warmth of amaretto liqueur. The perks? It’s a showstopper for gatherings and an indulgent escape during cozy nights at home. With every bite, you’ll experience a rich, velvety texture that feels both luxurious and inviting. Ready to elevate your dessert game and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this enchanting recipe! Why is Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu irresistible? Decadent Layers: Each spoonful reveals rich mascarpone, fresh cherries, and a delightful hint of amaretto, making it a true showstopper. Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can create a stunning dessert that looks gourmet without the fuss. Versatile Options: Prefer a non-alcoholic treat? Swap amaretto for almond extract, and enjoy the same luscious layers. Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dessert impresses with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation. Make-Ahead Friendly: Preparing in advance lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing your experience when serving, especially with a cup of bold coffee. Ready to dive deeper? Check out our guide on serving suggestions to elevate your experience! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ingredients • Create your dreamy dessert with this curated list! For the Mascarpone Mixture Mascarpone Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy base; substitute with cream cheese blended with heavy cream for a tangier flavor. Heavy Cream – Adds lightness and volume, creating a fluffy texture. Amaretto Liqueur – Introduces nutty and sweet flavors; can be replaced with almond extract mixed with water for a non-alcoholic version. Cherry Juice – Contributes tartness and sweetness; fresh or bottled works well. For the Cherries Fresh Cherries – Offers a burst of juicy sweetness; frozen cherries can be used, just thaw and drain to avoid excess moisture. Cherry Preserves – Enhances cherry flavor and provides a luscious texture. For Sweetening & Flavor Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mascarpone mixture. Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor. For Assembly Ladyfingers – Acts as the base that soaks up the delicious flavors; use store-bought or homemade. Cocoa Powder – Dusts the top for a classic tiramisu feel. Dark Chocolate – Shaved or grated, adds a rich accent and visual appeal. With these ingredients, you’re just a whisk away from creating a show-stopping Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu that everyone will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Step 1: Whisk the Mascarpone Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese and heavy cream. Use a hand mixer to whip the mixture at medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until it becomes light and fluffy, resembling soft peaks. This creamy base is essential for your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, so ensure it’s well combined for a smooth texture. Step 2: Add Flavor Enhancements Next, gently mix in the amaretto liqueur, cherry juice, and vanilla extract into your fluffy mascarpone mixture. Beat on low speed for 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything incorporates evenly and the mixture becomes silky smooth. This step is crucial for infusing that delightful flavor into your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, contributing to its luxurious taste. Step 3: Sweeten the Mixture In another bowl, combine granulated sugar and cherry preserves, stirring them until evenly blended. Gradually add this sweet combination into the mascarpone mixture, mixing for another minute. This will enhance the cherry flavor while maintaining the creamy texture needed for your indulgent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Step 4: Fold in Fresh Cherries Carefully fold in the chopped fresh cherries into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula. Gently combine until you see the vibrant red bits evenly distributed throughout. This step adds a burst of juicy sweetness to your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, making every bite a delightful experience. Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Mixture In a shallow dish, combine equal parts of amaretto and cherry juice. This mixture will be used to quickly dip the ladyfingers, creating flavor-packed layers in your dessert. Make sure the mixture is well combined, allowing the ladyfingers to soak up just enough flavor without becoming soggy. Step 6: Dip the Ladyfingers Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the amaretto and cherry juice mixture, ensuring they are coated but not soaked. You want them soft but still structured. Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, forming the base of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Step 7: Add the First Layer of Mascarpone Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the layer of dipped ladyfingers. Use a spatula to create a smooth and even surface, ensuring each bite will be rich with creamy goodness. This first layer sets the stage for the luxurious Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu you’re crafting. Step 8: Repeat the Layers Following the first layer, repeat the process: create a second layer of dipped ladyfingers on top of the mascarpone layer. Once again, spread the remaining mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. This double layer enhances the dessert’s indulgence, ensuring each slice showcases the delightful harmony of flavors. Step 9: Chill the Tiramisu Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for developing the flavors further. As it chills, the layers meld together beautifully, creating a luxurious texture vital for your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu’s success. Step 10: Dust and Serve Before serving, remove the tiramisu from the refrigerator and dust the top generously with cocoa powder. For added elegance, sprinkle shaved or grated dark chocolate over the top. This final touch elevates the appearance and flavor, making your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu both a feast for the eyes and the palate. Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Variations Feel free to tailor this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu to your taste, adding your own twist to this delightful recipe! Dairy-Free: Replace mascarpone with vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for a luscious, dairy-free option. The creamy texture will still captivate your senses. Non-Alcoholic: Instead of amaretto, use almond extract mixed with cherry juice for a delicious, family-friendly treat. You won’t miss the alcohol! Berry Burst: Swap fresh cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a vibrant, berry-flecked tiramisu. The tangy flavors bring a fresh twist that’s perfect for summertime. Nutty Addition: Fold in finely chopped nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, for added crunch and a delightful contrast to the creaminess. This adds a lovely texture throughout. Chocolate Lovers’ Dream: Mix cocoa powder into the mascarpone mixture and incorporate chocolate shavings on top for a rich chocolate-cherry experience. Each layer will scream indulgence! Mocha Delight: Add brewed espresso to the cherry juice for a coffee-infused dip for the ladyfingers. The coffee tones, combined with chocolate, create a delicious depth of flavor. Layered Elegance: Alternate layers of tiramisu with layers of whipped cream for an even fluffier dessert. This adds a delightful visual appeal and extra creaminess. Looking for more serving ideas? Discover how you can elevate your dessert with delightful topping suggestions for this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu! Make Ahead Options These Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu layers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the entire dessert up to 24 hours in advance, which not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together overnight. Simply make the mascarpone mixture, assemble the layers, and refrigerate tightly covered in plastic wrap. To maintain the quality, avoid dusting with cocoa powder and dark chocolate until just before serving—this ensures a pristine look and taste. When ready to enjoy, simply dust the top, and you’ll have an elegant dessert that’s just as delicious and ready to impress your guests! Expert Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Quick Dips Only: Dip ladyfingers swiftly in the amaretto-cherry mixture; prolonged soaking can lead to a mushy texture in your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Chill Properly: Always refrigerate overnight when possible. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you that rich, luxurious experience. Adjusting Sweetness: If using frozen cherries, reduce the sugar slightly to prevent the dessert from being overly sweet; balance is key! Whip to Perfection: Ensure your mascarpone and heavy cream are whipped until fluffy but not overmixed—stop once you achieve soft peaks for the best creamy result. Storing Leftovers: Keep tightly covered in the fridge and enjoy within three days. It may taste even better as it sets! Go Non-Alcoholic: For a family-friendly version, substitute amaretto with almond extract mixed with cherry juice to maintain that delicious flavor without the alcohol. How to Store and Freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Fridge: Keep your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will preserve its creamy texture and flavors. Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze individual servings wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in airtight containers. It’s best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen tiramisu to the fridge and allow it to thaw overnight. Avoid refreezing after thawing to maintain quality. Reheating: Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is best served cold and does not require reheating—just dust with cocoa powder before serving! What to Serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Delight your taste buds and create a cozy, memorable dining experience by exploring delectable pairings for this decadent dessert. Bold Espresso: The robust flavor of a rich espresso complements the sweet layers of tiramisu, enhancing both the chocolate and amaretto notes. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the creamy dessert, making each bite even more indulgent. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries bring a burst of freshness and a tart balance to the sweetness of the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Chocolate Shavings: Delicate shavings of dark chocolate provide an elegant touch and deepen the dessert’s luxurious experience, visually and flavor-wise. Hazelnut Liqueur: For an adult twist, serve alongside a small glass of hazelnut liqueur; its nutty richness pairs perfectly with the amaretto. Chilled Prosecco: This sparkling wine offers refreshing bubbles that cleanse the palate, creating a delightful contrast against the creamy tiramisu layers. Mini Tartlets: Consider pairing with fruit tartlets, such as lemon or berry, to offer a zesty accompaniment and add texture to your dessert spread. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy, lightly sweet biscotti enhances the flavors in your dessert and is perfect for dipping into espresso. Each bite becomes an adventure! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best cherries for the recipe? Absolutely! For the freshest taste in your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, pick cherries that are firm with a glossy skin. Look for deep red color without any dark spots or blemishes. If you can, choose sweet, ripe cherries for added natural sweetness. If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries can work as well—just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture. How should I store leftover Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? Very! To keep your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual servings to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’re storing it in a larger dish, ensure it’s sealed properly to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? Absolutely! To freeze your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, cut it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers. It’s best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply move the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. What if my mascarpone mixture isn’t fluffy? No problem! If your mascarpone mixture isn’t fluffing up, it might be that the cream was too warm or you overmixed it. Make sure the heavy cream is chilled and stop mixing as soon as you achieve soft peaks. This should help you achieve that lovely, light texture essential for your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Is this dessert safe for people with nut allergies? Great question! Since amaretto liqueur contains almonds, I recommend substituting it with a non-alcoholic alternative, such as almond extract mixed with cherry juice, for those with nut sensitivities. Always double-check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they’re safe for everyone at the table. Can I make a non-alcoholic version of Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? Absolutely! For a delightful non-alcoholic Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, substitute the amaretto with a mixture of almond extract and cherry juice. Use the same amounts specified in the recipe, and you’ll still get that luscious flavor without any alcohol. Enjoy the dessert with peace of mind! Decadent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu You'll Love to Make No ratings yet Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian classic, featuring luscious layers of creamy mascarpone and the fruity freshness of cherries. 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: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Mascarpone Mixture16 oz Mascarpone Cheese Substitute with cream cheese blended with heavy cream for tangier flavor.1 cup Heavy Cream Adds lightness and volume.1/2 cup Amaretto Liqueur Can be replaced with almond extract mixed with water for non-alcoholic.1/4 cup Cherry Juice Fresh or bottled works well.For the Cherries2 cups Fresh Cherries Frozen cherries can be used, just thaw and drain.1/2 cup Cherry Preserves Enhances cherry flavor.For Sweetening & Flavor1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the mascarpone mixture.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Adds warmth and depth.For Assembly24 pieces Ladyfingers Use store-bought or homemade.2 tbsp Cocoa Powder Dusts the top for classic feel.1/4 cup Dark Chocolate Shaved or grated for added flavor. Equipment Mixing BowlHand MixerShallow dish9x13-inch baking dishSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese and heavy cream. Use a hand mixer to whip until light and fluffy.Gently mix in the amaretto liqueur, cherry juice, and vanilla extract into the mascarpone mixture until silky smooth.In another bowl, combine granulated sugar and cherry preserves, stirring until blended, then add to the mascarpone mixture.Carefully fold in the chopped fresh cherries into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula.In a shallow dish, combine equal parts of amaretto and cherry juice, stirring well.Dip each ladyfinger into the amaretto and cherry juice mixture quickly and arrange them in a baking dish.Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the layer of dipped ladyfingers.Repeat the process with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers and spread remaining mascarpone mixture over them.Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle with shaved or grated dark chocolate. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesTips for best results include quick dips of ladyfingers, proper chilling for flavor melding, and adjusting sweetness if using frozen cherries. Store leftovers covered in fridge for up to three days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
