Picture this: warm summer evenings, the sun gently setting, and laughter echoing around the table. It’s on nights like these that a delightful dessert can turn an ordinary gathering into a cherished memory. Enter the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu—a gorgeous twist on the classic that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious treat.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a late-night baking binge, and it quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. The velvety mascarpone cream, infused with a hint of nutty amaretto and sweet cherry goodness, feels like an indulgent hug in every bite. Perfect for impressing friends or cozy family dinners, this dreamy dessert is as easy to whip up as it is to savor. Imagine slicing through the layers, the rich flavors dancing on your palate, and the satisfaction of creating something show-stopping with minimal fuss.
Whether you’re hosting a celebration or just treating yourself, this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is sure to be the star of the show. Let’s dive into this rewarding recipe that balances elegance, ease, and pure deliciousness!
Why is Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu a Must-Try?
Decadent layers of creamy mascarpone and sweet cherries create an indulgent experience like no other. Easy to prepare, this dessert is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Versatility at its finest—customize with different fruits to suit your taste or to use up what you have on hand. Impressive yet low-effort, your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen! With its make-ahead convenience, you can delight in the flavors melding overnight for a truly sumptuous treat. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this show-stopping dessert—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ingredients
For the Cream Mixture
- Mascarpone cheese – Provides a rich and creamy texture; can use cream cheese for a tangier flavor.
- Heavy cream – Adds lightness and airiness to the mascarpone mixture.
- Amaretto liqueur – Infuses the dessert with a nutty, rich flavor.
- Cherry juice – Adds sweetness and enhances the cherry flavor.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the mascarpone mixture.
- Cherry preserves – Enhances the cherry flavor and sweetness.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth to the flavor profile.
For the Assembly
- Fresh cherries – Provides juicy bursts of flavor; frozen cherries can be used (thaw and drain first).
- Ladyfingers – Forms the layers of the tiramisu; dip quickly to maintain firmness.
For the Topping
- Cocoa powder – For dusting the top, adds bitterness to balance sweetness.
- Dark chocolate (shaved or grated) – Adds texture and enhances the flavor.
With these delightful ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating an unforgettable Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu that will make your gatherings truly special!
How to Make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
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Combine
In a large mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese and heavy cream. Whip together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, taking about 2-3 minutes. The texture should be light and fluffy. -
Mix Flavors
Add the amaretto, cherry juice, and vanilla extract to the whipped mixture. Stir gently until well combined, which should take 1-2 minutes. You’ll notice a lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen! -
Sweeten
In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar with cherry preserves until smooth. Add this to the mascarpone mixture and beat for an additional minute. This step enhances the cherry sweetness beautifully. -
Fold in Cherries
Gently fold in the chopped fresh cherries into your mascarpone mixture. Be careful to preserve the lovely texture while evenly incorporating the juicy fruit. -
Dip Ladyfingers
In a shallow dish, combine amaretto and cherry juice. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture one at a time. Layer them in a baking dish; make sure they remain slightly firm—too long in the liquid will make them soggy! -
Layer with Cream
Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the first layer of ladyfingers. Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, pressing them down slightly, and then spread the remaining mascarpone mixture evenly on top. -
Chill
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating an exquisite experience. -
Final Touch
Just before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle some dark chocolate for an added touch of richness. Your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is now ready to be enjoyed!
Optional: Add a sprig of mint on top for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
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Quickly Dip Ladyfingers: Ensure ladyfingers are not soaked too long in the amaretto and cherry juice mixture to prevent sogginess; a quick dip is all you need.
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Chill Time Matters: Refrigerating the tiramisu overnight enhances flavors and improves the creamy, dreamy texture, making it a truly indulgent dessert experience.
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Fresh vs. Frozen: While fresh cherries provide the best flavor, frozen cherries can be a great alternative; just be sure to thaw and drain them properly before use.
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Non-Alcoholic Option: For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the amaretto liqueur with a splash of almond extract mixed with cherry juice for a delightful twist.
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Dust with Cocoa Powder: Don’t skip the cocoa powder topping! It provides a lovely balance to the sweetness of the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, enhancing the depth of flavor.
What to Serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Creating the perfect memorable meal around a dessert can elevate your gathering to something truly special.
- Bold Coffee: Rich and robust, a cup of bold coffee or espresso pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the tiramisu.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast, brightening the palate between each creamy bite.
- Chocolate-Dipped Fruits: The marriage of dark chocolate with cherries or bananas echoes the flavors in the tiramisu, creating a decadent yet balanced plate.
- Almond Biscotti: Serve this crunchy treat alongside your dessert for a lovely texture variation that guests will appreciate.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop beside the tiramisu adds a creamy chill, letting the rich flavors shine through while offering a delightful temperature contrast.
- Cherry-Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing drink with nuances of floral sweetness that complements the amaretto and cherry notes perfectly.
- Dark Chocolate Truffles: These provide an additional burst of richness, ideal for chocolate lovers looking to indulge.
- Mint Leaves: Use fresh mint as a garnish for an aromatic touch, adding a delightful hint of freshness to your dessert experience.
- Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly enhances the celebratory feeling, making every bite of the tiramisu even more joyful.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the mascarpone cream mixture and layer it with dipped ladyfingers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, just dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle with dark chocolate before indulging. This make-ahead magic ensures the dessert remains just as delicious and keeps its wonderful texture, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or weeknight delights!
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Variations
Get ready to elevate your dessert experience; there are endless ways to customize this delicious treat!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of mascarpone for a lighter, dairy-free option that still delivers creaminess.
- Nut-Free: Replace amaretto with almond extract for a nutty flavor without the nuts, perfect for those with allergies.
- Heavy Chocolate: Fold in dark chocolate chunks for an extra layer of richness and decadent flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Swap out cherries for raspberries or strawberries to create a vibrant fruit twist that adds a tangy punch.
- Espresso Kick: Add a splash of brewed espresso to the cream mixture for a coffee lovers’ twist that complements the amaretto beautifully.
- Cinnamon Spice: Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the mascarpone mixture for a warm, cozy flavor profile.
- Low-Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or a lower-calorie sweetener to make this dessert friendlier for those watching their sugar intake.
- Layered Delight: Create individual servings in mason jars for a fun and easy presentation that’s perfect for gatherings or a simple treat at home.
Storage Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Fridge: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the creamy texture and flavors of your delightful Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.
Airtight Containers: If you have individual servings, store them in airtight containers to prevent any absorption of odors from other foods.
Make-Ahead: This dessert is ideal for making ahead of time! Prepare it the day before serving to allow the flavors to meld wonderfully.
Reheating: Tiramisu is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply slice and enjoy straight from the fridge!
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
I recommend using fresh cherries for the best flavor and texture, as they provide juicy bursts in every bite. If fresh cherries aren’t available, you can use frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to your mascarpone mixture to avoid excess moisture.
How should I store the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
You should keep the tiramisu covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have individual servings, place them in airtight containers to prevent any absorption of odors from other foods. This will help maintain that delightful creamy texture and flavor!
Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu for later?
Yes, you can freeze it! To freeze, first cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, transfer it to the fridge the night before serving to thaw slowly. However, for best texture, I recommend enjoying it fresh rather than frozen.
Why did my ladyfingers become soggy?
Very! It sounds like they were soaked too long in the amaretto and cherry juice mixture. A quick dip—just a second or two—should suffice. The goal is to achieve a moist but still firm texture, as soggy ladyfingers can compromise the integrity of the layers.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Absolutely! To create a non-alcoholic version, simply substitute the amaretto liqueur with a splash of almond extract combined with cherry juice. This will give you a lovely flavor without the alcohol, making it suitable for everyone!
Can I make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in advance?
Yes, indeed! This dessert actually benefits from being made a day in advance. Allowing it to chill overnight enhances the flavors and improves the overall texture, making your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu a truly sumptuous treat for your gathering.
Indulge in Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu for a Dreamy Dessert!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine mascarpone cheese and heavy cream in a bowl and whip until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add amaretto, cherry juice, and vanilla extract to the whipped mixture and stir until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar with cherry preserves until smooth, then add to the mascarpone mixture and beat for another minute.
- Gently fold in chopped fresh cherries into the mascarpone mixture.
- In a shallow dish, combine amaretto and cherry juice. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture and layer them in a baking dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the first layer of ladyfingers, add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then spread the remaining mascarpone mixture on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle dark chocolate.