Name: Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved; 3 tbsp granulated sugar; ¼ cup Amaretto liqueur; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup heavy cream, cold; 1 cup mascarpone cheese, at room temperature; ⅓ cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¾ cup brewed espresso, cooled; 2 tbsp Amaretto liqueur; 1 pack (approx. 24) ladyfinger biscuits; Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting; Fresh cherries and shaved dark chocolate (optional garnishes)

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Introduction

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert by adding a luscious cherry and almond liqueur flavor. This layered treat combines soft ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a sweet cherry compote for a refreshing and indulgent finish.

The image shows a close-up slice of cherry cheesecake with four visible layers. The bottom layer is a light brown, crumbly crust. Above that is a thick, creamy white cheesecake layer with a smooth texture. The third layer is a dark red cherry filling, thick and slightly chunky with pieces of cherry fruit. The top layer is another creamy white cheesecake layer, slightly uneven, topped with a heap of shiny dark red whole cherries, some dusted lightly with powdered sugar. The cake slice is placed on a white plate with small black dots, set on a white marbled surface. In front of the plate, a silver fork is partially visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Cherry Mixture:

2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
3 tbsp granulated sugar
¼ cup Amaretto liqueur
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Mascarpone Cream:

1 cup heavy cream, cold
1 cup mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Assembling:

¾ cup brewed espresso, cooled
2 tbsp Amaretto liqueur
1 pack (approx. 24) ladyfinger biscuits
Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Fresh cherries and shaved dark chocolate (optional garnishes)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the cherries by combining fresh cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and Amaretto in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries are soft and syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 2: Whip the cold heavy cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form. In another bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined and fluffy.
Step 3: Prepare the espresso dip by stirring the Amaretto into the cooled espresso. Pour this mixture into a shallow dish for dipping.
Step 4: Briefly dip ladyfingers into the espresso-Amaretto mixture for 1 to 2 seconds per side. Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8 inch dish or individual glasses.
Step 5: Spoon half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, then evenly spread half of the cooled cherry mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Step 6: Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
Step 7: Before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with fresh cherries and shaved dark chocolate if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use frozen cherries if fresh are not available; just thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for a pop of color and aroma.
For a stronger almond flavor, increase the Amaretto slightly but avoid overpowering the cherry taste.

Storage

Store the tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture and flavor, consume within this period. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled directly from the fridge.

How to Serve

A close-up of a multi-layered cherry cheesecake slice on a white plate, set against a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a thick, textured brown crumb crust. Above it is a thick layer of creamy, off-white cheesecake filling. Next is a middle layer with whole dark red cherries embedded inside the cheesecake. On top sits a thick, slightly shiny bright red cherry sauce layer. The final layer is a pile of whole glossy dark red cherries generously dusted with white powdered sugar. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this tiramisu without alcohol?

Yes, simply omit the Amaretto and replace it with an equal amount of cold brewed espresso or cherry juice to maintain moisture and flavor balance.

How long should I soak the ladyfingers?

Dip each ladyfinger for only 1 to 2 seconds per side to avoid sogginess while still absorbing the espresso and liqueur flavors.