If you adore the classic Italian dessert with a flavorful twist, this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe is a must-try. It combines the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese and whipped cream with the delightful almond notes of amaretto liqueur and the vibrant sweetness of fresh cherries. The ladyfingers soak up the luscious cherry and amaretto mixture, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that’s both elegant and comforting. This dessert is perfect for sharing and will quickly become a beloved addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is key to making a memorable Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe. Each element, from the mascarpone to the fresh cherries, plays a crucial role in building contrasting layers of flavor and texture that melt in your mouth.
- Mascarpone cheese: The creamy base that brings richness and smoothness to the dessert.
- Heavy cream: Whipped to add lightness and fluffiness to the mascarpone mixture.
- Amaretto liqueur: Offers a delightful almond essence that makes this tiramisu stand out.
- Cherry juice: Imparts natural fruity sweetness and a beautiful color to soak the ladyfingers.
- Granulated sugar: Balances tartness and enhances the overall sweetness of the dessert.
- Fresh cherries: Adds bursts of juicy texture and natural vibrancy for a fresh finish.
- Ladyfingers: The classic sponge biscuits that soak up the flavorful amaretto and cherry liquid perfectly.
How to Make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Mascarpone Mixture
Start by combining the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream in a mixing bowl. Beat them together until you get a light, fluffy consistency. This step is essential because it sets the creamy, airy texture that defines a splendid tiramisu.
Step 2: Add the Amaretto and Cherry Juice
Next, incorporate the amaretto liqueur, cherry juice, and vanilla extract into the mascarpone mixture. Stir well to marry the flavors. The amaretto introduces that signature nutty depth, while the cherry juice brings a subtle tart sweetness that lifts the entire dessert.
Step 3: Fold in Sugar, Cherry Preserves, and Fresh Cherries
In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar with cherry preserves, then gently fold this along with the chopped fresh cherries into your mascarpone mixture. This adds texture, natural fruity bursts, and a hint of sparkle to every bite.
Step 4: Dip the Ladyfingers
Quickly soak the ladyfingers in a combination of the remaining amaretto and cherry juice. The key here is to dip them briefly so they absorb just enough liquid without falling apart. This step infuses each finger with vibrant flavor and creates the perfect foundation for layering.
Step 5: Assemble Your Dessert
Begin layering the soaked ladyfingers in your chosen baking dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, then repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture. This layering builds a luscious visual and textural contrast.
Step 6: Chill to Perfection
Refrigerate your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dessert to firm up, making every spoonful simply irresistible.
How to Serve Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your tiramisu with a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds or a few whole fresh cherries on top. These garnishes add an eye-catching contrast and complement the flavors while providing a delightful textural crunch.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a light espresso or a glass of sparkling wine to accentuate the rich, nutty, and fruity profiles. For a more casual setting, fresh berries on the side make a refreshing palate cleanser.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small glass jars or elegant stemmed glasses to showcase the layers. This presentation makes the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe perfect for parties and special gatherings, allowing each guest to enjoy their own personalized serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tiramisu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish actually benefits from resting overnight, so the flavors continue to deepen while chilled.
Freezing
Though tiramisu is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by wrapping the dessert tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving and give it a gentle mix to restore creaminess.
Reheating
Tiramisu is served cold, so reheating is not recommended as it will affect the texture and flavor. Keep it chilled for the best experience, and enjoy the creamy, cool delight straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries if fresh ones are out of season. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid that could make the tiramisu too soggy.
Is amaretto essential in this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe?
Amaretto adds a unique almond flavor that is characteristic of this recipe, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with an almond extract or another liqueur like kirsch to maintain a fruity nuance.
Can I make this tiramisu without alcohol?
Absolutely. Replace the amaretto with additional cherry juice or a non-alcoholic almond-flavored syrup to keep the dessert family-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
How long should I leave the tiramisu to set before serving?
At least 4 hours in the refrigerator is recommended, but overnight chilling is best to let the flavors blend and the cream set properly for easy slicing and serving.
What type of ladyfingers should I use?
Traditional dry ladyfingers work best as they hold up well when dipped briefly. Avoid very soft or fresh ladyfingers that might become mushy too quickly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe that makes it stand out from the usual tiramisu fare. Combining the lush creaminess with the bright burst of cherries and that touch of amaretto magic creates a dessert experience that feels both luxurious and deeply satisfying. I encourage you to whip this up for your next gathering or whenever you want to treat yourself to something sweet and unforgettable.
Print
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A delightful and indulgent twist on classic tiramisu, this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu combines the rich creaminess of mascarpone and heavy cream with the sweet and nutty flavors of amaretto and fresh cherries. Perfect for a festive dessert, it layers cherry-dipped ladyfingers with luscious mascarpone cream and fresh cherries, chilled to perfection for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Mascarpone Mixture
- 2 cups mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup amaretto liqueur
- 1/2 cup cherry juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Other Ingredients
- Ladyfingers (enough to layer in baking dish, approx. 24–30 pieces)
Instructions
- Prepare Mascarpone Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups mascarpone cheese and 1 cup heavy cream. Beat thoroughly using an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes fluffy and smooth, creating a rich cream base.
- Add Flavorings: To the fluffy mascarpone and cream mixture, add 1/2 cup amaretto liqueur, 1/2 cup cherry juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Incorporate Sugar and Cherries: In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar with cherry preserves (about 2–3 tablespoons) if available; then fold this mixture into the mascarpone blend along with the 1 cup of fresh, pitted, and chopped cherries. Gently fold to maintain the airy texture.
- Prepare Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into a mixture made from the remaining amaretto and cherry juice (adjust the quantity to have enough for dipping all ladyfingers). The ladyfingers should be soaked but not soggy, absorbing the flavors without falling apart.
- Assemble Layers: Place a layer of dipped ladyfingers on the bottom of a baking dish. Spread half of the mascarpone and cherry mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat the layering with the remaining dipped ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture to create two layers.
- Chill to Set: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set to a perfect consistency before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor and texture; frozen cherries can be used but drain excess juice.
- If cherry preserves are not available for the sugar mixture, increase the granulated sugar slightly to enhance sweetness.
- The ladyfingers should be dipped quickly to prevent them from becoming too soggy and falling apart.
- This dessert is best served chilled; allow the tiramisu to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for softer texture.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute amaretto liqueur with almond extract and use extra cherry juice or syrup.
