As I stood in the kitchen, the sweet scent of cherry juice simmering on the stove filled the air, transporting me straight to a sun-drenched Italian piazza. That’s when I knew I had to share my version of Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, a dessert that combines the joys of creamy mascarpone and juicy cherries with a delightful hint of amaretto. This easy cherry tiramisu is not just a feast for your taste buds; it offers the perfect balance of comfort and elegance, making it ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Plus, it requires minimal active time in the kitchen, allowing you to focus on what really matters – sharing delicious moments with loved ones. Are you ready to indulge in a treat that will leave everyone coming back for seconds? Why is Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu a Must-Try? Indulgent layers of creamy mascarpone and sweet cherries make this dessert an unforgettable experience. Quick to prepare, requiring minimal effort so you can enjoy the company of your guests. Versatile option easily transforms to a non-alcoholic delight with simple substitutions. Decadent flavor combines fruity and nutty notes with delectable richness, appealing to all palates. Plus, this is perfect for any gathering, whether you’re celebrating or just indulging in a cozy night at home. If you love delightful desserts, also check out my Dark Chocolate Cherry or Strawberry Blueberry Tiramisu for more sweet inspirations! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ingredients • Dive into the delightful world of this cherry tiramisu that’s bound to impress! For the Cream Mixture Mascarpone Cheese – Adds richness and creaminess; cream cheese can be used as an alternative, but the flavor will change. Heavy Cream – Provides volume and a light, airy texture to the dessert. Amaretto Liqueur – Infuses a nutty sweetness; replace with almond extract for a non-alcoholic option. Cherry Juice – Enhances flavor and moisture, making it even more delicious. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mascarpone mixture for that perfect dessert taste. Cherry Preserves – Adds concentrated cherry flavor and delightful sweetness. Vanilla Extract – A fragrant addition that deepens the flavor. For the Layering Fresh Cherries – Pitted and chopped for bursts of juicy delight; frozen cherries can be used if fresh ones are unavailable. Ladyfingers – These provide structure, but be sure to dip them briefly to avoid sogginess. For the Finishing Touch Cocoa Powder – A dusting adds bitterness to perfectly balance the sweetness. Dark Chocolate (shaved or grated) – This gives a rich chocolate flavor and a beautiful decorative touch. 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 an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and fluffy. The cream should hold soft peaks, indicating it’s ready to step up the flavor with the next ingredients. Step 2: Add Flavorings Next, add in 1/4 cup of amaretto liqueur, 2 tablespoons of cherry juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mascarpone mixture. Continue to mix on low speed for about 1-2 minutes until everything is evenly incorporated. The creamy mixture should now have a delightful aroma that combines the richness of mascarpone with the sweetness of amaretto and cherries. Step 3: Mix in Sugars In a separate small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of cherry preserves until smooth. Gradually pour this sugary mixture into the mascarpone blend, beating for another minute on medium speed. This will sweeten your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, making it an irresistible dessert with the promise of luscious flavors. Step 4: Fold in Cherries Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh cherries into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula. This step adds juicy bursts to your dessert while ensuring a consistent flavor throughout. Be careful to maintain the airiness of the mixture as you stir, creating light and fluffy layers for your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Step 5: Dip the Ladyfingers Prepare a shallow dish by mixing together 1/2 cup of amaretto and 1/2 cup of cherry juice. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture, ensuring they are soaked just enough to absorb flavor while remaining firm—about 1-2 seconds each. This delicate process ensures that your tiramisu holds its structure while providing a flavorful kick. Step 6: Layer the First Part Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, side by side, covering the base completely. Once laid down, gently spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. The contrasting textures will begin to create the appealing layers of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Step 7: Repeat Layering Repeat the process by dipping another layer of ladyfingers in the amaretto and cherry juice mixture and placing them over the mascarpone layer. Finally, top with the remaining mascarpone mixture, spreading it evenly. The cake-like structure formed by the ladyfingers and rich mascarpone gives this dessert its decadent feel. Step 8: Chill the Tiramisu Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a richer dessert experience that will tantalize your taste buds with every spoonful. Step 9: Serve and Garnish When ready to serve, dust the top of the chilled tiramisu generously with cocoa powder, and add a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate for a special touch. This final flourish not only enhances the flavor but also adds a visual appeal to your decadent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, making it a show-stopping dessert. How to Store and Freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Fridge: Keep your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the tiramisu tightly in plastic wrap or use an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Reheating: There’s no need to reheat tiramisu, as it is best enjoyed chilled straight from the refrigerator. Just garnish before serving for optimal flavor. Make-Ahead Tip: Consider making the tiramisu a day in advance, letting the flavors meld for an even more delicious experience when served. What to Serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? Elevate your dessert experience by pairing your delightful tiramisu with complementary flavors and textures that enhance every heavenly bite. Bold Espresso: A shot of rich espresso cuts through the sweetness, balancing the dessert’s creamy layers and enhancing the overall experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of color and acidity, perfectly offsetting the rich tiramisu. Chocolate-Covered Almonds: The nutty crunch pairs beautifully with the amaretto, while a touch of chocolate echoes the rich cocoa dusting you’ll find on the dessert. Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or blue cheese creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the tiramisu, making every bite captivating. Mint Tea: The gentle herbal freshness of mint tea refreshes your palate and complements the cherry flavors, making this pairing both uplifting and soothing. Raspberry Coulis: Drizzle this vibrant sauce on the plate for a tangy contrast and visual appeal, enhancing the cherry notes within the tiramisu. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream gives a cooling element that melds beautifully with the tiramisu’s decadent creaminess and rich cherry flavor. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy, nutty, and ideal for dipping! These cookies echo the amaretto notes while providing a fun, satisfying crunch alongside the dessert. Prosecco: A glass of bubbly mingles perfectly with the amaretto tiramisu, making it a celebratory treat that enhances the flavors of both the dessert and the drink. Dark Chocolate Mousse: For the chocolate lovers, a light, airy mousse provides a rich, decadent dessert option that beautifully contrasts with the fruity cherry tiramisu. Expert Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Perfect Layering: Ensure ladyfingers are dipped quickly in the amaretto mixture to prevent sogginess; too long in the liquid will lead to a mushy texture. Flavor Fusion: For a richer flavor, prepare your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu a day in advance; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Keep Fresh: Cover the dessert tightly while refrigerating to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. Chill Time Matters: Allow at least 4 hours of refrigeration, but overnight is even better; the longer it chills, the more the flavors develop in this delicious cherry tiramisu. Visual Appeal: Don’t skimp on the cocoa powder dusting and dark chocolate shavings for the finishing touch; they add both flavor and an elegant presentation. Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, adding your personal touch! Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace amaretto with almond extract and use extra cherry juice for that sweet, nutty flavor without alcohol. Cream Cheese Alternative: Swap mascarpone cheese with cream cheese mixed with heavy cream; it’ll still be rich but with a slight tang. Frozen Cherries: If fresh cherries aren’t available, use frozen ones. Just thaw, drain, and chop before folding into the cream mixture. More Chocolate: Incorporate dark chocolate shavings into the mascarpone mixture for a richer flavor profile and a delightful surprise in every bite. Berries & Cream: Boost the fruitiness by adding raspberries or strawberries along with the cherries for a vibrant and delicious mix. Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mascarpone mixture for a cozy, warming twist—perfect for chilly evenings. Individual Servings: Layer the tiramisu in individual glasses or jars for a beautiful presentation. Perfect for parties or special occasions! Citrusy Burst: Brighten the flavor with a splash of orange zest mixed into the mascarpone. The citrus adds a refreshing note that pairs beautifully with cherries. Whatever variation you choose, each bite will be a testament to your creativity and love for homemade desserts. If you’re intrigued by other delicious ideas, consider making my Tiramisu Truffles Coffee for a tasty twist or indulge in the sweet flavors of Strawberry Blueberry Tiramisu that’s sure to impress! Make Ahead Options These Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu are perfect for busy weeknights or preparing for gatherings! You can create the entire dessert up to 3 days in advance, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Start by preparing the mascarpone mixture and layering it with the dipped ladyfingers; then simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an extra delicious dessert. When ready to serve, just dust the top with cocoa powder and shaved dark chocolate for a stunning finish. Rest assured, your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu will remain just as scrumptious—even when made ahead! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs What type of cherries should I use in Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? Absolutely! Fresh cherries are ideal for this dessert, giving a juicy burst of flavor. Make sure to choose ripe cherries, which will be bright in color and firm to the touch. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cherries work great too; just thaw and drain them before chopping to remove excess moisture. How should I store my Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? You should keep the tiramisu tightly covered in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Use plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to keep the flavors intact. It’s always best to enjoy it while fresh, as the texture changes with time! Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? Yes! To freeze your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, just thaw it overnight in the fridge without unwrapping. This way, your dessert will retain its creamy texture while the flavors meld beautifully. What if my ladyfingers get too soggy? Very! If you find your ladyfingers becoming too soggy, be sure to dip them in the amaretto and cherry juice mixture for only about 1-2 seconds each. This quick dip is key to maintaining their structure, ensuring a perfect layer in your tiramisu. If you’ve already soaked them too long, consider using slightly less liquid next time or adjusting the dipping time. Can I make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu non-alcoholic? Of course! You can easily swap the amaretto liqueur for almond extract for a lovely nutty flavor without the alcohol. Just mix it with the same amount of cherry juice for a similar taste profile that can be enjoyed by everyone. This versatile dessert can please all palates! Decadent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu to Wow Your Guests This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a delightful dessert combining creamy mascarpone, juicy cherries, and a hint of amaretto, perfect for impressing your guests. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsChill 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 Cream Mixture1 cup Mascarpone Cheese Adds richness and creaminess; cream cheese can be used as an alternative, but the flavor will change.1 cup Heavy Cream Provides volume and a light, airy texture to the dessert.1/4 cup Amaretto Liqueur Infuses a nutty sweetness; replace with almond extract for a non-alcoholic option.2 tablespoons Cherry Juice Enhances flavor and moisture.1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the mascarpone mixture.1/4 cup Cherry Preserves Adds concentrated cherry flavor.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract A fragrant addition that deepens the flavor.For the Layering1 cup Fresh Cherries Pitted and chopped; frozen cherries can be used if fresh are unavailable.24 pieces Ladyfingers Provide structure; dip briefly to avoid sogginess.For the Finishing Touch1 tablespoon Cocoa Powder Dusting adds bitterness to balance sweetness.1/4 cup Dark Chocolate Shaved or grated for rich chocolate flavor. Equipment Mixing bowlElectric mixerShallow dish9x13 inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cherry Amaretto TiramisuIn 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, 2 tablespoons of cherry juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix on low speed for 1-2 minutes.In a separate bowl, stir together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of cherry preserves. Gradually add to the mascarpone blend, mixing for another minute.Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh cherries into the mascarpone mixture with a spatula.Mix 1/2 cup of amaretto and 1/2 cup of cherry juice in a shallow dish. Dip ladyfingers quickly (1-2 seconds each).Layer dipped ladyfingers in a 9x13 inch baking dish, then spread half of the mascarpone mixture over them.Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone mixture.Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle with shaved dark chocolate. Nutrition Serving: 1slicesCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesFor better flavor fusion, prepare the tiramisu a day in advance. Keep tightly covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
