Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu: A Fruity Twist Recipe
Introduction
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu offers a delightful fruity twist on the classic Italian dessert. Combining rich mascarpone cream with luscious cherry compote and a splash of Amaretto, this treat is both elegant and deeply satisfying.
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, room temperature
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp Amaretto liqueur
- 1 pack (approx. 24) ladyfinger biscuits (gluten-free if preferred)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Fresh cherries and shaved dark chocolate (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and Amaretto. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries are soft and slightly syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, whisk together the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
- Step 3: Stir the Amaretto into the cooled espresso. Pour this mixture into a shallow dish for dipping the ladyfingers.
- Step 4: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso-Amaretto mixture for 1–2 seconds per side. Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8″ dish or individual trifle glasses.
- Step 5: Spoon half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Add half of the cherry mixture on top of the cream. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and the remaining cherries.
- 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 tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with fresh cherries and shaved dark chocolate if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use gluten-free ladyfingers to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Substitute the espresso with strong brewed coffee if preferred.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the Amaretto and replace it with almond extract in the cherry mixture and espresso.
- Make sure to cool the cherry mixture and espresso completely before assembling to keep the mascarpone cream from melting.
Storage
Store the tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture and flavor, enjoy it within this timeframe. When ready to serve, you can add fresh garnishes. If the dessert becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes, it actually improves when made ahead. Allowing it to chill overnight helps the flavors blend beautifully and ensures a firm, scoopable texture.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Frozen cherries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid that might make the tiramisu watery. Cook them similarly with sugar and Amaretto to create the cherry layer.
PrintCherry Amaretto Tiramisu: A Fruity Twist Recipe
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of luscious mascarpone cream, espresso-soaked ladyfingers infused with Amaretto, and a vibrant cherry mixture. This no-bake treat combines the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of Amaretto liqueur, creating a fruity, creamy indulgence perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 27 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Cherry Layer
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ cup Amaretto liqueur
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Cream Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Espresso Layer
- ¾ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp Amaretto liqueur
- 1 pack (approx. 24) ladyfinger biscuits (gluten-free if preferred)
To Assemble & Garnish
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Fresh cherries (optional)
- Shaved dark chocolate (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Mixture: In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and Amaretto. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cherries are soft and slightly syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Whip the Mascarpone Cream: In a large bowl, beat the cold heavy cream to soft peaks. In another bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
- Mix the Espresso Layer: Stir Amaretto into the cooled espresso or strong coffee. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish suitable for dipping the ladyfingers.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso-Amaretto mixture for 1–2 seconds per side. Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish or in trifle glasses. Spoon half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, followed by half of the cherry mixture evenly spread on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cherries.
- Chill: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
- Garnish & Serve: Before serving, dust the tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with fresh cherries and shaved dark chocolate for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Use gluten-free ladyfingers if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
- Ensure the espresso or coffee is fully cooled before dipping ladyfingers to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
- For a stronger almond flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the mascarpone cream.
- Chilling the tiramisu overnight enhances the flavor and helps the layers set perfectly.
- Fresh seasonal cherries or frozen cherries can be used if fresh ones are not available.
Keywords: Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, fruity tiramisu, no bake tiramisu, cherry dessert, mascarpone cream dessert, Italian dessert, gluten-free dessert
