Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert

When you crave a dessert that feels like both a celebration and a comfort, this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu never fails. Luscious mascarpone cream meets bursts of cherry and sweet almond notes, layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers. This recipe dazzles at dinner parties, yet it is simple enough for a weekend indulgence at home.

I first created this as a surprise for my partner’s birthday, and now it is requested at every family gathering. The way the cherry and amaretto meld together just feels special with each bite.

Ingredients

• Mascarpone cheese: creamy base that sets tiramisu apart choose one that is thick and fresh for best results
• Heavy cream: adds richness and volume to the filling go for well-chilled cream to whip properly
• Amaretto liqueur: infuses a complex almond sweetness pick a quality brand for richer flavor
• Cherry juice: brings a fruity tang to balance the richness find pure juice with no added sugar if possible
• Fresh cherries: brighten the dessert with tart pops use ripe cherries for juiciness and best flavor
• Granulated sugar: sweetens and balances acidity in cherries and juice
• Cherry preserves: deepen that real cherry taste pick a preserve with whole fruit pieces if possible
• Vanilla extract: rounds out flavors with warmth and complexity choose pure extract over imitation
• Ladyfingers: create the light yet substantial sponge layers grab a sturdy brand that will not dissolve quickly
• Cocoa powder: gives a bitter edge to finish find Dutch process cocoa for a smoother flavor
• Dark chocolate: brings luxurious texture and a bittersweet finish use a bar for better texture and flavor when grating

Instructions

Combine the Cream Base:

In a large mixing bowl add the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream beaten together with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed for about two to three minutes until fluffy and smooth This step is crucial for a light mouthfeel and creamy texture

Mix in the Flavors:

Add amaretto liqueur cherry juice and vanilla extract to the mascarpone mixture then beat for one to two more minutes until fully incorporated The alcohol and juices should be evenly distributed to enhance every bite

Sweeten and Enhance:

In a separate small bowl mix together granulated sugar and cherry preserves stirring until well combined Add this to the mascarpone mixture and beat for another minute to make sure the sweetness is consistent throughout the filling

Fold in Cherries:

Gently stir in the chopped fresh cherries taking care not to crush them Fold until they are evenly spread through the cream Each bite will carry chunks of vibrant fruit

Dip the Ladyfingers:

Pour a fresh batch of amaretto liqueur and cherry juice into a shallow dish Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture and remove as soon as coated The goal is to moisten without turning them soggy Timing here is key for the best texture

Layer the Dessert:

Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch dish Use a gentle hand to keep the ladyfingers intact Cover this with half of the mascarpone cherry mixture smoothing evenly with a spatula

Repeat the Layers:

Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers over the mascarpone Spread the remaining mascarpone cherry mixture on top smooth it out to the edges Each layer should look even and enticing

Chill to Set:

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours overnight is even better This allows flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up slicing cleanly for serving

Add the Finishing Touches:

Right before serving dust the top generously with cocoa powder using a fine mesh strainer then sprinkle with shaved or grated dark chocolate These toppings cut through the sweetness and give a classic tiramisu flavor

Serve and Savor:

Cut into squares and serve chilled Each layer should hold its shape and offer bursts of cherry alongside the creamy filling

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My favorite part is watching people dig into the first slice and discover the surprise of fresh cherries If you love the taste of amaretto this dessert will win you over with its bold and balanced flavors It always reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen where something special was always chilling in the fridge

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days The flavor deepens as it rests but texture is best in the first day or two If you want to make ahead prep a day in advance for best results Freezing is not recommended as the texture of mascarpone may change after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nonalcoholic version substitute amaretto with almond extract and extra cherry juice Use sour cherries or canned cherries in syrup if fresh are not in season If you need a dairy free version coconut cream and vegan mascarpone work well with this rich filling Use any good quality chocolate for topping

Serving Suggestions

Serve this tiramisu well chilled in squares as a showstopper dessert at brunches or holiday dinners Add extra fresh cherries on the side for an elegant touch Individual parfait glasses also look stunning with visible layers A small glass of amaretto or espresso pairs beautifully on the side

Cultural and Historical Context

Tiramisu has roots in northern Italy with its name meaning pick me up The classic version uses coffee and cocoa but adding cherries and amaretto draws from Italian and French dessert traditions where fruit and almond flavors often come together This version balances nostalgia with a hint of something new

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Making this with loved ones always makes the result feel extra sweet So take a moment to enjoy the process and the beautiful results

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How should the ladyfingers be dipped?

Quickly dip the ladyfingers in the amaretto and cherry juice mixture to avoid sogginess. They should be moist but still firm to form the dessert layers.

→ Can frozen cherries be used instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used. Thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cream layers.

→ How long does the tiramisu need to chill?

Chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set fully.

→ Is it possible to omit the alcohol?

Yes. Substitute extra cherry juice for amaretto. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and suitable for all ages.

→ Can the dessert be made in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare one day ahead and refrigerate. Add cocoa and chocolate on top just before serving.