As I walked through the farmers’ market last weekend, the vibrant cherries caught my eye, their deep red hue calling out for a sweet transformation. That’s when I decided to put a delightful spin on the beloved classic with my Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. This easy dessert is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their dinner party game or just satisfy a sweet tooth without hours of effort. With its luscious layers of mascarpone, juicy cherries, and a hint of amaretto, it’s an indulgent treat that can easily be made ahead of time, letting the flavors meld beautifully. So, are you ready to impress your friends and family with this showstopper? Let’s dive into this recipe that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why is Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu a Must-Try?

Indulgent Delight: This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu merges the classic Italian dessert with a fruity twist, creating a unique experience for your taste buds.

Effortless Preparation: With simple steps, you don’t need to be a pro to whip up this showstopper.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare ahead of time and let the flavors blend overnight for an even richer taste. It’s perfect for busy cooks!

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The blend of creamy mascarpone and sweet cherries is sure to wow guests at dinner parties—or just treat yourself!

Versatile Option: Want a non-alcoholic version? Just swap the amaretto for almond extract, and you won’t miss a beat. Pair it with a bold espresso or a cup of Christmas Cherry Fizz for a delightful finish!

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge in this delicious dessert!

For the Mascarpone Mixture
• Mascarpone Cheese – Adds a rich and creamy base; substitute with cream cheese if desired.
• Heavy Cream – Provides fluffiness and volume to the mascarpone mixture; no direct substitution noted.
• Amaretto Liqueur – Contributes sweet, nutty flavor; for a non-alcoholic twist, use almond extract with water or apple juice.
• Cherry Juice – Brings tart sweetness; you can swap it with additional cherry preserves if needed.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mixture; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
• Cherry Preserves – Intensifies cherry flavor while adding sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; no preferred substitute noted.

For the Cherries and Layering
• Fresh Cherries (pitted and chopped) – Offers juicy bursts of flavor; frozen cherries work if thawed and drained.
• Ladyfingers – Essential for structure and layering; dip quickly to avoid sogginess.

For the Topping
• Cocoa Powder – Adds a finishing touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness.
• Dark Chocolate (shaved or grated) – Creates a delightful textural contrast and infuses rich chocolate flavor to the topping.

Elevate your dessert game with this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu that promises to delight your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream. Using an electric mixer, beat this mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and fluffy, resembling cloud-like peaks. This creamy base will form the heart of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, so ensure it’s well combined before moving on.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Next, gently fold in the amaretto liqueur, cherry juice, and vanilla extract into the cream mixture. Continue mixing on low speed for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fully incorporated and evenly combined. The subtle warmth from the amaretto and the sweetness of the cherry juice will enhance the richness of your dessert beautifully.

Step 3: Incorporate Cherry Preserves
In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar with the cherry preserves, blending them well. Once combined, transfer this mixture into the mascarpone blend and beat for one more minute until it’s fully integrated. The preserves will not only sweeten the filling but also add a luscious cherry flavor throughout your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.

Step 4: Fold in Fresh Cherries
Now it’s time to add the chopped fresh cherries! Gently fold the cherries into your creamy mixture until they are evenly distributed without breaking apart. This step adds delightful bursts of juicy flavor that complement the rich mascarpone cream and are a signature of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.

Step 5: Prepare the Ladyfingers
In a shallow dish, prepare your liqueur mixture by combining equal parts of cherry juice and amaretto. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into this mixture, ensuring they are coated but not soaked—just a second or two should suffice. Carefully lay the dipped ladyfingers in a 9×13 baking dish to create the first layer.

Step 6: Build the First Layer
Spread half of the creamy mascarpone mixture over the layer of dipped ladyfingers. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly, creating a soft blanket over the ladyfingers. This rich layer will soak into the ladyfingers, ensuring each bite of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is packed with delicious flavor.

Step 7: Add Another Layer of Ladyfingers
Place a second layer of quickly dipped ladyfingers on top of the mascarpone mixture. Ensure they are laid out neatly, just like the first layer. This second layer will add structure and texture, making your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu even more delightful and satisfying.

Step 8: Finish with the Mascarpone Mixture
Finally, spread the remaining mascarpone mixture over the top layer of ladyfingers, smoothing it out to form an even surface. Once finished, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating the perfect Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
When ready to serve, remove the tiramisu from the refrigerator. Dust the top with cocoa powder for a finishing touch, lending a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness. Finally, sprinkle with shaved or grated dark chocolate for an extra touch of decadence. Your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is now ready to impress!

Expert Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Dip Quickly: Ensure to dip ladyfingers quickly in the liqueur mixture to avoid sogginess. A brief splash is enough to retain the perfect texture.
Chill Overnight: Refrigerating the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu overnight is highly recommended. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer taste.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cherries over canned or frozen varieties for the best flavor and texture in your dessert. They provide delightful juicy bursts.
Adjust Sweetness: Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of sugar based on your personal preference. Taste the mascarpone mixture before adding the cherry preserves for your ideal sweetness.
Presentation Matters: For an elegant presentation, top with freshly grated dark chocolate and a dusting of cocoa powder before serving. It elevates your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu to a showstopper dessert!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Fridge: Store your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making each bite even more delightful!

Freezer: If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the tiramisu tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Thawing: To enjoy after freezing, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. This will help retain its creamy texture.

Reheating: Tiramisu is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply garnish before serving for the freshest look!

What to Serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that bring out the best in this creamy, fruity masterpiece.

Bold Espresso: The rich, intense flavor of a bold espresso beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the tiramisu, enhancing its indulgence.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious scoop of sweetness, creating a delightful temperature contrast with the chilled tiramisu.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Juicy strawberries dipped in dark chocolate offer a refreshing, fruity balance that harmonizes wonderfully with the cherry flavors.
Fresh Berries Salad: A mix of raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries provides a tart freshness, cutting through the richness of the dish.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream on top makes each serving feel extra special and indulgent, adding lightness to the dessert.
Amaretto Spritz: This refreshing cocktail echoes the flavors of the tiramisu, making for a cohesive and celebratory pairing that’s perfect for gatherings.
Chocolate Liqueur: Sipping a glass of chocolate liqueur can deepen the dessert experience, as its flavors complement the cocoa and cherries beautifully.
Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes your palate, offering a zesty contrast that brightens the entire dessert encounter.
Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake alongside the tiramisu adds texture and complements the coffee flavors, perfect for brunch settings.
Chocolate-Covered Almonds: These crunchy treats can be a fun snack alongside the tiramisu, providing a delightful bite that pairs perfectly with the cherry flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu are the perfect solution for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply follow the recipe up to Step 8, and then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. To maintain quality, make sure the ladyfingers are only lightly dipped to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, just dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle shaved dark chocolate before indulging in this delightful dessert. Preparing ahead means you can enjoy the company of your guests without the last-minute rush!

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Customizations

Are you ready to take your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu to the next level? Let your creativity shine with these delightful variations!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of mascarpone and heavy cream for a luscious vegan twist.
Sugar-Free: Swap out granulated sugar for a sugar alternative like erythritol or stevia, preserving the sweetness without the calories.
Non-Alcoholic: Replace amaretto with almond extract mixed with apple juice for a family-friendly version without missing the flavor punch.
Fruit Variation: Try other fruits like raspberries or strawberries to change the dessert’s profile, bringing in a fresh burst of color and taste.
Layer Different Flavors: Infuse your layers with a touch of espresso or coffee, adding an indulgent mocha twist to this classic treat.
Add Crunch: Mix in some crushed amaretti cookies into the mascaprone layer for an extra crunch that surprises with every bite.
Heat it Up: For a subtle kick, sprinkle in some cinnamon or a hint of cayenne pepper into the cocoa powder before garnishing for a warm flavor contrast.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas or pair this decadent dessert with a refreshing drink like Christmas Cherry Fizz for an unforgettable experience!

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Fresh, pitted, and chopped cherries are ideal for the best flavor, but you can also use frozen cherries. Make sure to thaw and drain them before mixing them into the tiramisu to maintain the right texture and sweetness.

How should I store my Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Absolutely! Store your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the dessert fresh. If you want to keep it longer, consider the freezing option.

Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Yes! To freeze your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 1 month. Simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight before serving.

What should I do if my ladyfingers become soggy?
To prevent sogginess, ensure to dip the ladyfingers quickly in the liqueur mixture—just a second or two will do! If they do get soggy, consider layering them less and creating a firmer base with a lighter touch of the liqueur mixture next time.

Are there any dietary considerations when making Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Yes, for a non-alcoholic version, simply swap the amaretto liqueur for almond extract mixed with water or apple juice. This keeps the flavor rich without the alcohol, making it suitable for all guests—just as delightful!