Name: Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu: An Irresistible No-Bake Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 405 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Fresh Pitted Cherries (Substitute with Lambert or Chelan cherries if needed.); ⅓ cup Water (Essential for cooking down the cherries.); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Always opt for fresh juice for the best results.); ½ cup Amaretto Liqueur (Omit for a kid-friendly option or replace with almond extract.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Make sure to use full-fat cream for the richest result.); 1 cup Mascarpone Cheese (Cream cheese can work in a pinch.); ½ cup Additional Sugar (Adjust based on personal preference.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla extract is recommended for an authentic taste.); ½ teaspoon Almond Extract (Essential for this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.)

It was one of those breathtaking summer days when the air is sweet, and inspiration strikes. I found myself daydreaming about a dessert that embodies this vibrant season, leading me to create my beloved Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. This no-bake delight is a perfect blend of juicy cherry syrup-soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone filling, making it an ideal indulgence for any occasion. Not only is this dessert a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, freeing you from hours in the kitchen. With the luscious pairing of cherries and Amaretto liqueur, every layer offers a delightful experience that will leave your guests craving more. Ready to impress your family and friends with a taste of summer bliss in a dessert? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why is Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet cherries and rich Amaretto liqueur creates an unforgettable taste sensation that dances on your palate.

Effortless Preparation: No-bake means you can whip this up in no time, perfect for busy days when you want something special without the hassle.

Versatile Delight: This dessert isn’t just a one-trick pony; customize with seasonal fruits or different liqueurs for a twist that suits any gathering.

Impressive Presentation: Layered beauty makes it a showstopper, and dolloping the mascarpone filling adds elegance that will wow your guests.

Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds of this airy, decadent treat that captures the essence of summer bliss. Enjoy with a drizzle of extra cherry syrup for that perfect finishing touch!

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Ingredients

For the Cherry Syrup

Fresh Pitted Cherries – Juicy cherries add natural sweetness and vibrant color; substitute with Lambert or Chelan cherries if needed.
Water – Essential for cooking down the cherries to extract syrup; no substitute required.
Granulated Sugar – Balances the acidity of lemon juice; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the overall flavor; always opt for fresh juice for the best results.

For the Mascarpone Filling

Amaretto Liqueur – Provides a sweet almond flavor that complements the cherries; omit for a kid-friendly option or replace with almond extract.
Heavy Cream – Whipped to create a fluffy texture; make sure to use full-fat cream for the richest result.
Mascarpone Cheese – The base for the creamy filling; its smooth texture is irreplaceable, but cream cheese can work in a pinch.
Additional Sugar – Enhances the mascarpone filling’s sweetness; adjust based on personal preference.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; pure vanilla extract is recommended for an authentic taste.
Almond Extract – Elevates the cherry flavor; essential for this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, as substitutes may dilute the flavor.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting an indulgent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu that will delight friends and family alike!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Step 1: Make Cherry Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of pitted cherries and ⅓ cup of water. Mash the cherries gently with a potato masher or fork, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Once softened, strain the mixture through a fine sieve, pressing to extract as much juice as possible, and set aside the resulting cherry juice.

Step 2: Sweeten the Syrup
Return the extracted cherry juice to the saucepan, then add ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. After boiling for about 2-3 minutes, remove it from heat and let it cool to room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Prepare Mascarpone Filling
In a mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. In another large bowl, combine 1 cup of mascarpone cheese, ½ cup of sugar, ⅓ cup of cherry syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract. Beat until smooth and fully incorporated, then gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is light and airy.

Step 4: Assemble Tiramisu
Take a 9×9-inch square dish and start layering the dessert. Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled cherry syrup, making sure not to soak them, and arrange a layer in the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the soaked ladyfingers, smoothing it evenly before adding another layer of syrup-dipped ladyfingers on top, followed by the remaining mascarpone filling.

Step 5: Chill
Cover the assembled Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, though overnight is ideal to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to set. The longer it chills, the better the taste and creaminess will be, so be patient for that lovely, indulgent outcome!

What to Serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

The perfect accompaniment can elevate your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu into an extraordinary meal experience, making every bite a celebration.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the creamy tiramisu, enhancing the summer vibe.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened vanilla whipped cream on the side adds an airy touch to the rich dessert, making every bite even more indulgent.
Chocolate Shavings: Dark chocolate curls sprinkled on top provide a satisfying crunch, pairing beautifully with the cherry and Amaretto flavors.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti offers a delightful texture contrast, perfect for dipping in the leftover cherry syrup.
Café au Lait: The smooth, rich taste of café au lait complements the sweet layers of the tiramisu, providing a well-rounded finish to your meal.
Fruit Sorbet: A light raspberry or lemon sorbet will cleanse the palate, enhancing the deep cherry notes in the tiramisu while adding a fruity twist.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of Prosecco or sparkling rosé elevates the celebration, pairing effortlessly with the bright cherry and almond flavors, creating a festive atmosphere.

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Fridge: Enjoy your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. This keeps it chilled and preserves the creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the tiramisu for up to 1 month. Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: To enjoy your frozen dessert, transfer it to the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This will restore the creamy texture beautifully.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this no-bake dessert. Simply serve it chilled, perhaps with an extra drizzle of cherry syrup for that irresistible touch!

Expert Tips for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Choose Quality Cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries are key to a delicious Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Opt for Bing cherries or similar varieties for the best flavor.
Avoid Soggy Ladyfingers: Dip the ladyfingers quickly in the cherry syrup to prevent them from becoming overly soggy. They should be moist but maintain some structure.
Chill Thoroughly: For optimal taste and texture, allow your tiramisu to chill overnight. This enhances the flavors and helps it set perfectly.
Elegant Presentation: Use a piping bag to dollop the mascarpone filling on top for a beautiful finishing touch that impresses friends and family.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider substituting other fruits or liqueurs for a unique spin on this classic Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own, customizing flavors and textures to suit your taste!

Fruit Swaps: Substitute strawberries or raspberries for cherries to create a different fruity delight. Each fruit brings a unique twist while retaining that lovely, creamy layer.
Non-Alcoholic: Replace Amaretto with almond extract for a delicious almond flavor without the alcohol. It keeps the essence but makes it kid-friendly and just as delightful.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free mascarpone for a vegan-friendly option. The coconut adds a tropical twist that’s wonderfully refreshing in summer.
Chocolate Version: Introduce cocoa powder or dark chocolate shavings between layers for a chocolaty richness that complements the sweetness of the cherries beautifully. This decadent twist will have chocolate lovers swooning!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped toasted almonds or walnuts to the mascarpone filling for delightful crunch and added texture, enhancing each bite with delicious nutty flavor.
Spice Up the Heat: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can warm up the flavor profile, making it cozy and perfect for fall fêtes. Just a pinch can transform the dessert into a seasonal sensation.
Lemon Zest: Incorporate fresh lemon zest into the mascarpone filling for a bright, zesty note that cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing wake-up to your palate.
Coffee Infusion: If you’re a coffee lover, dip ladyfingers in espresso or brewed coffee before layering for a delightful mocha twist. The coffee and cherry combination is an unexpected but delightful pairing!

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to treat yourself to a luscious experience while enjoying the tantalizing flavors of your customized Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu!

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu creations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cherry syrup and mascarpone filling up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for effortless assembly when you’re ready to serve. Just make the cherry syrup and let it cool, then whip up the mascarpone filling and fold in the whipped cream for that airy texture. Store these components in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. When it’s time to enjoy, simply dip the ladyfingers in the syrup and layer them with the mascarpone filling. With this prep, you’ll have a stunning dessert with minimal effort and just as delicious as if made fresh!

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe cherries for the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Absolutely! When choosing cherries, look for plump, firm fruits with a vibrant color. Ripe Bing cherries are a fantastic option, as their sweetness and juiciness shine in this dessert. Avoid cherries with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as these can indicate overripeness or spoilage.

How should I store leftover Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Very simple! Store your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for indulgence while maintaining its luscious, creamy texture. Just be sure to cover it well to avoid any absorption of other fridge odors.

Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions of the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu for up to 1 month. Wrap each serving tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

What should I do if my ladyfingers get too soggy?
No worries! If you find your ladyfingers have become too soggy during assembly, it’s best to control the soaking duration. Dip each ladyfinger into the cherry syrup for just a second or two rather than allowing them to soak. They should be moist but not falling apart. If they’re beyond help, you could add another layer of mascarpone filling as a buffer.

Is there an alcohol-free version of this dessert?
Very much so! To make a kid-friendly version of Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, simply omit the Amaretto liqueur and substitute it with almond extract. This allows you to keep that lovely almond flavor without the alcohol, making it suitable for everyone at your gathering.

How can I enhance the flavor of the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
I recommend experimenting! For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of almond extract in the cherry syrup. You can also layer in additional fresh fruit, like blueberries or strawberries, between the mascarpone layers to create a flavorful twist on this classic dessert!