A sweet, sun-drenched afternoon called for something special, and that’s when I stumbled upon the idea for this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. This no-bake dessert is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian favorite, enriched with layers of creamy mascarpone and juicy cherries dancing in a luscious Amaretto embrace. Not only does this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe come together with minimal effort, but it also makes for the perfect crowd-pleaser at all your summer gatherings. With its airy texture and vibrant flavors, each bite is a delightful indulgence that feels effortlessly elegant. Are you ready to impress your friends and family without breaking a sweat? Let’s dive into this dreamy dessert!

Why is this Tiramisu so special?

No-Bake Convenience: This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for warm-weather entertaining without the need for an oven.

Elevated Flavors: The combination of juicy cherries and rich Amaretto infuses a unique twist on the traditional dessert, offering a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

Versatile Variations: Whether you prefer enhanced crunch from sliced almonds or a rich chocolate ganache, this recipe invites creativity, allowing you to cater to your guests’ tastes.

Make-Ahead Magic: It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert, as it only gets better after sitting in the fridge, ensuring you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Crowd-Pleasing Excellence: Serve it at brunches or dinner parties, and watch as your friends rave about how light yet indulgent this dessert feels, akin to having a dreamy coffee-flavored cloud.

For a refreshing twist on dessert, check out Berry Tiramisu Refreshing or pair it with savory options like Queso Chicken Tacos.

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ingredients

For the Cherry Mixture
• Cherries – Fresh, juicy cherries add a fruity sweetness; substitute with pitted frozen cherries (thawed).
• Sugar – Adds sweetness to the cherry layer; no substitutions recommended.
• Lemon Juice – Provides acidity to balance sweetness; fresh is best, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
• Amaretto – Infuses cherry mixture with a nutty flavor; substitute with almond extract for a non-alcoholic version.

For the Mascarpone Cream
• Heavy Cream – Establishes a rich, fluffy texture; make sure it’s cold before whipping.
• Mascarpone Cheese – The base of the cream filling, offering rich creaminess; use high-quality mascarpone for best results.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the mascarpone filling and stabilizes the whipped cream texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the mascarpone cream; use pure extract for quality flavor.

For the Espresso Layer
• Espresso – Brings a deep coffee flavor that complements the dessert; instant coffee can be substituted if needed.

For the Assembly
• Ladyfingers – Provide structure and absorb the espresso layer; do not over-soak to maintain crispness.

For the Garnish
• Cocoa Powder & Shaved Chocolate – Add visual appeal and chocolate notes for a beautiful finish.

This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create an unforgettable dessert that your guests will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and Amaretto. Over medium heat, simmer this mixture for 5–7 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy consistency. You’ll know it’s ready when the cherries release their juices and the mixture coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before proceeding.

Step 2: Whip the Mascarpone Cream
In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form, about 3–4 minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring it stays fluffy. This creamy blend will form the heart of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.

Step 3: Mix the Espresso Layer
Prepare your espresso by either brewing fresh coffee or mixing instant coffee with hot water. In a shallow dish, stir in the remaining Amaretto into the cooled espresso. This will create a rich coffee layer that complements the dessert beautifully. Make sure your espresso is cool enough to prevent the ladyfingers from becoming too soggy during assembly.

Step 4: Assemble the Tiramisu
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture, allowing them to absorb the coffee flavor but avoiding excess soaking to maintain crispness. Arrange a layer of these dipped ladyfingers in an 8×8″ dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, followed by half of the cherry mixture. Repeat with another layer of espresso-dipped ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cherries.

Step 5: Chill
Cover the assembled Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling is ideal. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps the dessert set, making it easier to slice and serve later.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Before serving, dust the top of your chilled tiramisu with cocoa powder and add shaved chocolate for an elegant presentation. Optionally, you can top it with additional cherries for a pop of color. Scoop out generous portions and watch as your guests indulge in this delightful Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu recipe that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity.

What to Serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Brighten your special occasion with delightful pairings that enhance the experience of this creamy, luscious dessert.

Italian Coffee: A robust, freshly brewed cup of espresso elevates the flavor, mirroring the espresso in the tiramisu.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich layers and add a splash of color on the plate.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti with an almond flavor complements the nutty Amaretto, offering a delightful texture and flavor boost.
Chocolate Tuille Cookies: Thin, crispy tuille cookies add a sophisticated crunch, perfect for scooping up the creamy layers of the tiramisu.
Sour Cream & Chive Biscuits: The flaky texture of these biscuits balances the dessert’s sweetness, making for an intriguing sweet-and-savory experience.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of Prosecco or Moscato pairs wonderfully, enhancing the lightness of the dessert while adding a touch of celebratory flair.
Citrus Sorbet: The bright acidity of lemon or orange sorbet refreshes the palate, cleansing it between bites of the rich tiramisu.

With these thoughtful accompaniments, your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu will shine even brighter at your next gathering!

Expert Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Perfect Soaking: Avoid over-soaking ladyfingers: Dip them quickly in the espresso mixture to keep them crisp and maintain the dessert’s light texture.
Quality Matters: Use high-quality mascarpone cheese: It enhances the creaminess and flavor, resulting in a more refined Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.
Fresh is Best: Opt for fresh cherries whenever possible: They bring vibrant flavor and texture; if unavailable, thawed frozen cherries are a good alternative.
Flavor Boost: Add cherry juice to the espresso for extra depth: Just a splash can enhance the overall flavor profile of your dessert.
Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process: Allow the tiramisu to sit overnight in the fridge for optimal flavor melding and improved slicing.
Creative Variations: Experiment with add-ins: Sliced almonds or drizzled chocolate ganache can elevate your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu and cater to diverse tastes.

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Fridge: Keep your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to develop while keeping it fresh.

Freezer: If you want to store it longer, freeze the tiramisu for up to 1 month. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen tiramisu to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. This gradual thawing keeps the texture intact and prevents any sogginess.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this dessert; it’s best served chilled straight from the fridge, ensuring that creamy, refreshing flavor in every bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the cherry mixture and mascarpone cream up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply simmer your cherries with sugar, lemon juice, and Amaretto; let it cool and then refrigerate in an airtight container. For the mascarpone cream, whip it and store it separately in the fridge for the same timeframe. When ready to serve, layer the espresso-dipped ladyfingers and alternate with the chilled cream and cherry mixture. This way, your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu will taste just as delicious while you enjoy a well-deserved break before your gathering!

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert, tailoring it to your taste and texture preferences.

Cherry Almond Tiramisu: Add sliced almonds for a delightful crunch between layers, elevating the overall texture of this creamy dessert.
Chocolate Cherry Tiramisu: Drizzle rich chocolate ganache between the layers for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore. The combination of chocolate and cherries is simply heavenly!
Mini Tiramisu Cups: Serve in individual jars for a stylish presentation. These personal cups make for eye-catching and easy-to-serve portions at gatherings.
Boozy Berry Layer: Swap some of the cherries for mixed berries, and use a splash of berry liqueur to complement the Amaretto. This fruity variation brings a summer vibe to the table.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical delight. The creamy coconut will add a subtle sweetness and an exotic flavor twist.
Spicy Espresso Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper into the espresso layer for a warm, spicy undertone that adds depth to the flavor profile.
Vanilla Bean Delight: Infuse the mascarpone cream with fresh vanilla bean specks for a luxurious, aromatic touch. It’s an elegant choice that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
Decaf Option: If you’d like to avoid caffeine, simply use decaffeinated coffee in the espresso layer – the flavor will still shine through deliciously.

For more dessert inspiration, why not try the refreshing Berry Tiramisu Refreshing or treat yourself to some delicious Baked Buffalo Wings alongside!

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe cherries are best for this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Look for cherries that are deep red, firm, and shiny. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes. If fresh cherries aren’t available, thawed frozen cherries can be a great substitute, keeping the sweetness intact!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen and keeps your dessert fresh. Just make sure it’s well-covered to avoid absorbing any odors from the fridge!

Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Absolutely! If you’re planning to enjoy your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu later, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to indulge, simply transfer it to the fridge the night before to thaw gently.

What if my ladyfingers become soggy during assembly?
Not to worry! If your ladyfingers are too soggy, it may mean they were soaked too long in the espresso mixture. To avoid this, quickly dip each ladyfinger just long enough to absorb the flavor but remain firm. Aim for a 1-2 second dip per side—this keeps that perfect balance of texture in your tiramisu!

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Definitely! While Amaretto does contain almonds, you can easily substitute it with almond extract or even vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version. Just be mindful of any additional nut toppings like almonds or chocolate ganache if you’re serving guests with nut allergies.

Can I make this a day ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu the day before not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it well so it stays fresh and delicious for your special gathering!