Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of cherries mingling with coffee wafted around me, transporting me to a quaint Italian café. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert, an enchanting twist on the classic Italian treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This no-bake dessert is not just a delightful way to indulge but is also perfect for warm evenings with friends or cozy family gatherings. With its layers of creamy mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and luscious cherry preserves, it effortlessly balances richness and refreshing flavors. Trust me—you’ll want this dessert in your recipe rotation! Are you ready to make some magic in your kitchen? Why is Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Special? Uniquely Delicious: This dessert transforms the classic tiramisu by adding juicy cherries and almond flair, creating a flavor profile that delights the palate. No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for those warm days, this recipe saves you time and effort without compromising on taste — a true win-win! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting a garden party or enjoying a quiet dinner, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Versatile Fruit Options: Mix it up by using raspberries or strawberries for an equally delicious twist — variety is the spice of life! Consider trying it with our Lime Bars Dessert for a refreshing contrast. Endless Indulgence: You’ll love how this silky and tangy treat feels indulgent yet refreshingly light, making it perfect for summer nights or holiday gatherings. Want to take it up a notch? Check out our Cheesecake Brownies Dessert for another decadent option! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ingredients For the Cream Layer • Heavy Cream – Adds richness and lightness to the cream layer. Substitution: Can use whipped topping for a lighter version. • Mascarpone Cheese – Provides a creamy, smooth texture and delightful flavor. Note: Should be at room temperature for easier mixing. • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream without adding grit. Substitution: Granulated sugar can be used, but blend well to powder first. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the mascarpone mixture. No substitutes recommended for optimal flavor. For the Soaking Mixture • Strong Brewed Espresso – Infuses the ladyfingers with a rich, coffee flavor. Substitution: Strong brewed coffee works in a pinch. • Amaretto Liqueur – Adds depth and a subtle almond flavor to the dessert. Substitution: Almond extract (1/2 tsp) can be used for a non-alcoholic option. For the Layers • Ladyfinger Cookies (Savoiardi) – Acts as the base layer, soaking up flavors. Substitution: Sponge cake or vanilla wafers may also be used. • Cherry Preserves or Pie Filling – Provides a fruity, tangy contrast to the cream. Note: Fresh or frozen cherries should be thawed and drained before using. • Fresh Cherries – Used for layering and garnish, adding visual appeal and freshness. Substitution: Other berries can be used for variation. • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Dusting for a bittersweet finish. No substitutes recommended for authentic cocoa taste. This tantalizing Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu dessert is bound to enchant your taste buds! Ready to immerse yourself in a summer treat adventure? Let’s dive into the preparation! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert Step 1: Prepare Cream Layer In a large mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with a hand mixer until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes on medium speed. Gently fold in 1 cup of room-temperature mascarpone cheese, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fluffy—this delicious cream layer will be the heart of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu! Step 2: Mix Soaking Liquid Brew a strong cup of espresso, allowing it to cool to room temperature. In a shallow dish, combine the cooled espresso with ¼ cup of amaretto liqueur, stirring to blend. This fragrant soaking liquid will enhance the ladyfingers, infusing them with rich coffee and almond flavors that perfectly complement the cherry preserves in your dessert. Step 3: Assemble Layers Begin assembling your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu by quickly dipping the ladyfinger cookies, one by one, into the espresso mixture. Line the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish with the soaked ladyfingers, ensuring they are neatly arranged. Next, spread half of the creamy mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, followed by half of the cherry preserves and a layer of halved fresh cherries to bring a burst of fruity flavor. Step 4: Repeat Layers For the second layer of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, repeat the process by dipping more ladyfingers in the espresso mixture and placing them over the previous layer. Top with the remaining mascarpone cream, smoothing it evenly, and then finish with the rest of the cherry preserves. This two-layer setup ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Step 5: Chill Cover the assembled dessert tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the ladyfingers to absorb moisture, creating the signature softness you expect from a perfect Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Step 6: Serve Just before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder for a touch of bittersweet richness. Garnish with additional fresh cherries for an appealing look. Slice into squares, serving chilled so your guests can enjoy the delightful layers of creaminess and fruitiness in every bite of this exquisite Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu dessert. How to Store and Freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Fridge: Store your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the dessert fresh and creamy for indulgent bites. Freezer: This no-bake dessert can also be frozen in individual portions for up to 2 months. Wrap each serving tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container. Thawing: To enjoy frozen Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, transfer the portions to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight before serving. Reheating: This dessert is meant to be served chilled, so no reheating is necessary. Simply dust with cocoa powder and garnish with fresh cherries before serving. What to Serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu The Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a luxurious dessert that effortlessly elevates any dining experience, inviting a delightful array of flavors and textures to your table. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery consistency creates a lovely contrast to the lightness of the tiramisu, ensuring a well-rounded meal. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Seasoned with herbs and spices, these skewers provide a savory balance that complements the sweet richness of the dessert. Arugula Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: The peppery greens and zesty dressing add freshness, beautifully cutting through the sweetness of the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: The caramelized flavors of the veggies enhance the dining experience, offering a warm and savory touch to contrast the cool dessert. Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly enhances the celebration vibe and refreshes the palate, making each sip feel like a mini celebration alongside the rich tiramisu. Lemon Sorbet: This light and zesty treat adds a refreshing note to the meal, cleansing the palate and enhancing the tart cherry flavors in the dessert. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a playful addition, these sweet bites offer a simple yet elegant treat that pairs well with the tiramisu’s almond notes. Espresso or Coffee: A cup of strong espresso echoes the coffee flavors in your tiramisu, creating a harmonious connection between the dessert and the beverage. These pairings will take your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu to the next level, ensuring a delightful balance of flavors that will impress any guest! Make Ahead Options Prepare your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu ahead of time for an effortless dessert that saves you precious moments during busy gatherings! You can whip the creamy mascarpone mixture and soak the ladyfingers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the layers and refrigerate the completed dessert overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. For maximum freshness, store covered in the fridge to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply dust with cocoa powder and add fresh cherries for garnish. This no-bake treat will be just as delightful as when made the same day, ensuring your dessert is a hit without the last-minute stress! Expert Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Right Soaking Time: Avoid soaking the ladyfingers too long; a quick dip ensures they remain firm for texture while still absorbing flavors. Flavor Boost: For an enhanced cherry flavor, simmer cherry preserves with a splash of amaretto to create a quick compote before layering. Room Temp Ingredients: Ensure your mascarpone cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing, leading to a smoother, creamier Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Layering Precision: Spread the mascarpone mixture evenly to prevent the layers from being too thick or uneven, allowing for a harmonious blend of flavors. Chill Well: Refrigerate overnight if possible to allow flavors to meld, giving you the best result for your no-bake dessert—this is key to a perfect Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Proper Storage: If you have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze individual portions for later enjoyment. Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Variations Feel free to get creative and make this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu your own with these delicious suggestions! Berry Bliss: Swap cherries for fresh raspberries or strawberries for a vibrant flavor burst. Each berry adds a refreshing twist—imagine a berry-studded dessert that screams summer! Nutty Surprise: Add crushed almonds or hazelnuts between layers for delightful crunch and nutty flavor. The textures will surprise and delight your guests, creating a true gourmet experience. Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate-covered ladyfingers instead of traditional ones for an indulgent dessert. Double the chocolate joy by layering some chocolate shavings in between! Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute dairy ingredients with coconut cream and almond milk for a dairy-free option. This twist not only accommodates dietary needs but also brings a tropical essence to the dessert. Decadent Mocha: Substitute espresso with strong brewed coffee mixed with cocoa powder for a mocha-like flavor. This variation brings a richer, deeper taste that coffee lovers will adore! Tropical Vibes: Replace amaretto with coconut rum for a delightful tropical twist. Imagine the chilled sweetness of the coconut mingling with the cherries—a true island getaway on your plate! Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each layer for a sweet, gooey addition. This adds an irresistible flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries and cream. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne to the mascarpone mixture for a surprising heat. This unexpected spice will elevate your dessert experience and leave everyone guessing. Each variation allows you to savor the deliciousness while celebrating your unique taste preferences. Speaking of flavor exploration, if you’re in the mood for something a little different, you might want to try our delightful Lime Bars Dessert or indulge in rich Cheesecake Brownies Dessert! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs What type of cherries should I use for the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? You can use fresh, frozen, or canned cherries. If using fresh or frozen cherries, make sure to thaw and drain them before layering. For a sweeter touch, I recommend using sweet cherries as they will complement the flavors beautifully! How long can I store Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in the fridge? Absolutely! You can store your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To preserve its creamy texture and flavor, ensure it is tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu? Yes! This no-bake dessert can be frozen in individual portions for up to 2 months. Just wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. To enjoy later, simply transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight before serving. What should I do if my mascarpone mixture isn’t smooth? If your mascarpone mixture isn’t coming together smoothly, it might be due to the mascarpone being too cold. To fix it, let the mixture sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then whip it again to combine better. Ensuring your mascarpone is at room temperature during preparation really helps with achieving that silky texture! Can I use a different alcohol instead of Amaretto? Certainly! While Amaretto provides a unique almond flavor, you can substitute it with almond extract (about 1/2 teaspoon) for a non-alcoholic option. Alternatively, a splash of Irish cream liqueur can enhance the creaminess as well. Is Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu safe for pets? It’s best to keep this dessert away from pets. The alcohol content in Amaretto can be harmful to them, and ingredients like chocolate, used in cocoa powder, can also be toxic to dogs. Always enjoy this delightful dessert yourself! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Fruity No-Bake Treat A delightful Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert that combines luscious cherries with creamy mascarpone for a refreshing no-bake treat perfect for summer gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 6 hours hrsTotal Time 6 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cream Layer1 cup Heavy Cream Can use whipped topping for a lighter version.1 cup Mascarpone Cheese Should be at room temperature for easier mixing.½ cup Powdered Sugar Granulated sugar can be used, but blend well to powder first.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract No substitutes recommended for optimal flavor.For the Soaking Mixture1 cup Strong Brewed Espresso Strong brewed coffee works in a pinch.¼ cup Amaretto Liqueur Almond extract (1/2 tsp) can be used for a non-alcoholic option.For the Layers24 pieces Ladyfinger Cookies (Savoiardi) Sponge cake or vanilla wafers may also be used.1 cup Cherry Preserves or Pie Filling Fresh or frozen cherries should be thawed and drained before using.1 cup Fresh Cherries Other berries can be used for variation.2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder No substitutes recommended for authentic cocoa taste. Equipment mixing bowlhand mixershallow dish9x9-inch dish Method Preparation StepsWhip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold in mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla.Brew espresso and combine with amaretto in a shallow dish.Dip ladyfingers in the espresso mixture and line the bottom of a 9x9-inch dish.Spread half of the mascarpone mixture and half of the cherry preserves over the ladyfingers.Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.Dust with cocoa powder and garnish with fresh cherries before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze individual portions for later enjoyment. 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