Name: Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu: A Creamy No-Bake Slice of Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 267 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cherries (Fresh or frozen); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/4 cup Amaretto Liqueur (Or almond extract for non-alcoholic); 1/2 cup Cherry Juice (Tart cherry juice works best); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Avoid low-fat versions); 1/3 cup Powdered Sugar; 1 cup Mascarpone Cheese (Ensure freshness); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 package Ladyfinger Cookies (Savoiardi-style); 2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder or Grated Dark Chocolate (For topping)

On a sunny afternoon, I found myself unexpectedly juggling a dozen things at once—bright cherries, creamy mascarpone, and a craving for something sweet yet sophisticated. That’s when the idea of Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu came to life, turning my kitchen into a whirlwind of delicious possibilities. This no-bake dessert is not just a treat for the eyes; it seamlessly marries luscious layers of mascarpone with juicy cherries and delicate ladyfingers—perfect for those steamy summer days when oven time feels like a chore. Plus, with its make-ahead convenience, it’s ideal for gatherings or just satisfying your sweet tooth when you need a little indulgence. And don’t worry if alcohol isn’t your thing; I’ve got delightful non-alcoholic substitutions to share, so everyone can join in on the fun! Ready to transform your dessert game? Let’s dive into this irresistible Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu together!

Why is Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Perfect?

Easily Adaptable: This recipe can be tailored to suit any occasion or preference. Choose non-alcoholic options or serve in individual portions for a customized touch.

No-Bake Convenience: Enjoy a delicious dessert without the oven hassle, making it ideal for hot days or busy schedules.

Rich, Creamy Layers: The combination of luscious mascarpone and juicy cherries creates a taste sensation that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Make-Ahead Marvel: Prepare it a day in advance to let the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your gathering.

For those who crave a unique dessert experience, I also recommend trying my Strawberry Blueberry Tiramisu—another no-bake delight! This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is sure to leave your guests raving about your culinary skills!

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ingredients

• For the Cherry Mixture

Cherries – Fresh or frozen cherries bring a burst of sweetness and texture; tart cherry juice can enhance the flavor even more.
Granulated Sugar – This sweetens the cherry mixture; adjust according to the cherries’ natural sweetness.
Amaretto Liqueur – Adds a lovely almond flavor; feel free to swap with almond extract for a non-alcoholic option.
Cherry Juice – Boosts the cherry taste; 100% tart cherry juice works best for a deeper flavor.

• For the Cream

Heavy Cream – Creates that light, fluffy mascarpone layer; avoid low-fat versions for the best results.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream and helps stabilize its texture.
Mascarpone Cheese – The star of the show, lending creaminess; make sure it’s fresh and at room temperature for easy mixing.
Vanilla Extract – This adds a touch of aromatic depth to the mascarpone filling.

• For the Assembly

Ladyfinger Cookies – Perfect for layering; Savoiardi-style ladyfingers soak nicely without falling apart.
Cocoa Powder or Grated Dark Chocolate – A bittersweet topping that beautifully complements the dessert’s sweetness.

Let’s whip up this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu and enjoy a slice of heavenly bliss together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Step 1: Cook the Cherries
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh or frozen cherries with granulated sugar and half of the amaretto liqueur. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the cherries are softened and juicy, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, and let it cool before stirring in the remaining amaretto and tart cherry juice for an intense flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy texture. In another bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese with vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined, taking care not to deflate the airy texture.

Step 3: Assemble Layers
Grab a shallow dish or a rectangular serving pan, and set up your ladyfinger cookies nearby. Briefly dip each ladyfinger in the cherry-amaretto mixture, ensuring they soak just enough without becoming mushy. Layer the soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of the dish, followed by half of the mascarpone cream spread evenly over the top, then add half of the cherry mixture.

Step 4: Repeat the Layers
Continue the assembly by dipping more ladyfingers and layering them on top of the first mascarpone layer. Spread the remaining mascarpone cream and finish with the rest of the cherry mixture, creating beautiful layers. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure a neat finish, preparing the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu for chilling.

Step 5: Chill the Tiramisu
Cover the assembled Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, although overnight is ideal for the best flavor melding. This chilling process allows the layers to set and the flavors to intensify, resulting in a deliciously creamy dessert.

Step 6: Serve with a Touch of Elegance
Once chilled to perfection, remove the tiramisu from the refrigerator. Before serving, dust the top with your choice of cocoa powder or grated dark chocolate for a beautiful presentation. Serve cold, garnishing with fresh cherries or mint leaves if desired, to elevate your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu layers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cherry mixture and mascarpone cream up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their qualities. Assemble the dessert no more than a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully without compromising the texture. If you’ve mixed the layers a day ahead, let them chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to intensify the flavors. When it’s time to serve, simply dust with cocoa powder or grated chocolate for that finishing touch, ensuring your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu remains just as delicious as when made fresh!

What to Serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Delight in a perfectly balanced meal by pairing this luscious dessert with complementary flavors and textures.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness provides a savory contrast to the tartness of the cherries, offering a comforting backdrop for any main course.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: The feathers of fresh herbs and zesty lemons create a bright, flavorful counterpart that enhances the sweet notes of the tiramisu.
Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch that lightens up your meal, perfectly balancing the indulgence of dessert.
Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle these delightful nuts over your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu for a lovely crunch—an added texture that harmonizes beautifully with creaminess.
Bubbly Prosecco: Serve chilled alongside dessert for a light, effervescent pairing that brightens the palate and brings out the flavors in the tiramisu.
Mint Tea: A soothing herbal tea can round off your meal, with mint’s refreshing essence elegantly complementing the dessert’s cherry notes.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These luscious treats add an element of romance and visual appeal to your spread, seamlessly blending with the overall dessert theme.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie or tangy goat cheese can provide a savory touch, creating an intriguing contrast to your sweet Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe—there are countless ways to customize your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu!

Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace amaretto with almond extract and increase the cherry juice for a kids-friendly treat. Allow the flavor to shine through without the booze!
Individual Servings: Present your tiramisu in mason jars or ramekins for a charming touch at gatherings. Each guest can indulge in their own personal dessert!
Chocolate Cherry Tiramisu: Fold in melted dark chocolate between layers for an extra rich flavor boost. Choco lovers, rejoice!
Nuts for Texture: Sprinkle toasted almonds or crushed amaretti cookies on top or between layers for delightful crunch. The contrast will elevate the experience!
Berry Blend: Swap cherries for mixed berries like strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. The bright colors and flavors will be a feast for the eyes and palate.
Coconut Cream: For a tropical flair, substitute heavy cream with whipped coconut cream. It adds a luscious creaminess and a hint of coconut sweetness.
Coffee Kick: Add a splash of espresso or coffee liqueur along with the amaretto for a rich coffee-infused flavor. This combo complements the dessert beautifully!
Lemon Zest: Mix some lemon zest into the mascarpone cream for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the overall taste. A hint of brightness can transform your dessert!

With these variations, your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu can take on an exciting life of its own! For more no-bake delights, try my Dark Chocolate Cherry or indulge in Tiramisu Truffles Coffee for sophisticated, bite-sized treats! Enjoy the sweet adventure!

Storage Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Fridge: Store your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This chilling time helps flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier!

Freezer: While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the tiramisu for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this dessert is best enjoyed cold for that creamy texture!

Presentation: If you’ve prepared individual servings in jars, you can freeze those as well. Just cover them tightly, and they make for charming, ready-to-serve desserts when thawed!

Expert Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality mascarpone and fresh cherries for the best flavor and texture; avoid low-fat substitutes to maintain creaminess.

• Soak Smartly: Briefly dip ladyfingers in the cherry-amaretto mixture to prevent them from becoming overly soggy; a quick dunk is all you need!

• Chill for Flavor: Allow ample chilling time—overnight is optimal—to let the flavors meld and the layers set beautifully, enhancing your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.

• Layering Technique: Pay attention to your layering. Ensure even distribution of mascarpone and cherry mixtures for a balanced dessert experience.

• Add a Crunch: Sprinkle crushed amaretti cookies or toasted almonds between layers for an enjoyable texture contrast and extra flavor!

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cherries for my Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for fresh cherries when they’re in season. Look for those that are firm to the touch, vibrant in color, and free of dark spots. If you’re using frozen cherries, ensure they are unsweetened to control the sugar content in your recipe.

What is the best way to store leftover Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help the flavors meld even more, enhancing your dessert’s taste. Always chill for at least 4 hours before digging in again!

Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Indeed! To freeze your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, first, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.

What if my ladyfingers become mushy during assembly?
Don’t worry—this is a common issue! To prevent mushy ladyfingers, dip them quickly in the cherry-amaretto mixture, just enough to soak the outside without saturating them completely. This method ensures they maintain their structure and add a delightful crunch to your tiramisu layers.

Are there any dietary considerations for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Absolutely! As this recipe includes alcohol, you can easily make a non-alcoholic version by substituting amaretto with almond extract and increasing the cherry juice. If serving to guests, note any nut allergies due to the use of almond extract. Enjoy this dessert with everyone in mind!

Can I serve this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in individual portions?
Yes, the more the merrier! Presenting your tiramisu in mason jars or ramekins not only enhances the visual appeal but also makes it easy for serving. Just layer the ingredients in your chosen dishes, and it’s effortlessly charming!