This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic dessert! With layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone, and sweet cherry flavor, it’s simply scrumptious.
What’s better than dessert that tastes like a celebration? I love how the amaretto adds a lovely almond kick. It’s perfect for impressing guests or just enjoying at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Amaretto Liqueur: This adds a sweet almond flavor that’s key to the recipe. If you’re looking to avoid alcohol, use almond extract in a pinch—just go easy on it as it’s more concentrated!
Mascarpone Cheese: Essential for that creamy texture, but if you can’t find it, softened cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream can work as an alternative. It won’t be as rich, but it’ll still taste good!
Ladyfinger Cookies: These cookies bring the classic tiramisu texture. If they’re unavailable, consider using pound cake or sponge cake cut into strips as another option.
Cherries: Fresh cherries really make this dish pop! If they’re out of season, frozen cherries can be used—just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture.
How Do I Ensure the Ladyfingers Aren’t Soggy?
The way you dip the ladyfingers is crucial for the right texture. You want them to soak up the coffee-amaretto mixture without falling apart. Here’s how:
- Quickly dip each side of the ladyfinger in the coffee mixture—think of it as a light swim rather than a long soak.
- Do this assembly line-style to keep the cookies from getting too mushy!
- Assembling the tiramisu should be quick, so have your dish ready to go before you start dipping.
This technique ensures each bite is a perfect balance of creamy, soft, and slightly firm ladyfinger, making your tiramisu absolutely delightful!
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tiramisu:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup amaretto liqueur
- 2 cups mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 24 ladyfinger cookies
- 2 cups fresh or pitted cherries, halved
- 1 tbsp cherry liqueur or cherry syrup (optional, to macerate cherries)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Time Needed:
This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu will take you about 30 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours (or overnight) in the refrigerator to chill and set. The wait is the hardest part, but trust me, it’s well worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cherries:
If you’re using them, toss the halved cherries with cherry liqueur or syrup. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors. This step adds a lovely sweetness to your tiramisu!
2. Combine Coffee and Amaretto:
In a shallow dish, mix together the cooled coffee and amaretto liqueur. Set this aside; you’ll use it to dip the ladyfingers.
3. Make the Mascarpone Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with 1/2 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy. It should be deliciously rich!
4. Whip the Cream:
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with the remaining 1/4 cup sugar until stiff peaks form. This will give your tiramisu a light, fluffy texture. Be sure not to over-whip it—just until it holds its shape!
5. Combine Cream with Mascarpone:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until it’s all well combined and light. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream while mixing!
6. Dip the Ladyfingers:
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee-amaretto mixture. Don’t let them soak for too long, as you want them to be moist but not soggy!
7. First Layer of Ladyfingers:
Arrange a layer of the dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of your serving dish or in individual serving plates. This will be the base of your tiramisu.
8. Add the Cream:
Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out nicely.
9. Layer with Cherries:
Next, layer half of the macerated cherries over the cream. This is where the cherry flavor shines!
10. Repeat the Layers:
Now, repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers followed by the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the top layer with a spatula.
11. Chill the Tiramisu:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! This chilling time helps the flavors blend beautifully.
12. Dust with Cocoa Powder:
Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. It adds a lovely touch of elegance!
13. Garnish and Serve:
Lastly, garnish with whole fresh cherries and a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a stunning finish. Serve it chill, and enjoy every creamy, fruity bite of your amaretto-kissed tiramisu!
Can I Use Different Types of Alcohol?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, you can use coffee liqueur instead of amaretto for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste of the final dish will change slightly based on what you choose!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Just be aware that the ladyfingers may continue to absorb moisture, so the texture might change slightly.
Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Look for gluten-free ladyfinger cookies or use a gluten-free sponge cake cut into strips as a substitute. Just make sure all your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How Can I Make This Tiramisu Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the mascarpone cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese, and use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream for the heavy cream. Adjust the sugar to taste for a sweeter finish!
