The rain tapped gently against the windows while the aroma of fresh espresso filled the kitchen. A quiet moment of inspiration came as I spotted cherry preserves and amaretto liqueur, imagining how their flavors could transform a classic tiramisu into something lively and unexpected.

Whipping the cream and mascarpone created a light, airy texture, while the espresso-amaretto mixture warmed the kitchen with a rich, inviting scent. Layering the ladyfingers, cherries, and creamy filling brought the dessert closer to completion, each step adding depth and complexity.

When the final cocoa dusting crowned the tiramisu, the dessert looked and smelled irresistible. The combination of tart cherries, sweet amaretto, and velvety mascarpone promised a luxurious treat, perfect for sharing or savoring during a quiet afternoon pause.

Short Description

Decadent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu features espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and tart cherry layers, making it a luxurious treat ideal for holidays, dinner parties, and cozy evenings.

Key Ingredients

For the Layers

1 ¾ cups heavy cream
1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)
3 tbsp amaretto liqueur
1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger cookies
1 ½ cups cherry preserves or cherry pie filling
½ cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved (plus extra for topping)

For Topping

Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Fresh cherries
Shaved chocolate or sliced almonds (optional)

Tools Needed

Large mixing bowl
Electric mixer or hand whisk
Shallow bowl for coffee mixture
8×8 inch or similar serving dish
Spatula
Sieve for cocoa powder

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Make the filling
Whip heavy cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form. Add mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare the coffee mixture
Combine cooled espresso and amaretto in a shallow bowl.

Step 3: Layer the ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture and line the bottom of your dish. Avoid soaking to keep them from becoming soggy.

Step 4: Add the mascarpone cream
Spread half of the whipped mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.

Step 5: Add cherry layer
Spread half of the cherry preserves and fresh cherries over the mascarpone layer.

Step 6: Repeat layers
Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then the remaining mascarpone cream and remaining cherry filling. Smooth the top carefully.

Step 7: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and set.

Step 8: Decorate and serve
Dust with cocoa powder, top with fresh cherries, and optionally garnish with shaved chocolate or sliced almonds. Slice and serve chilled.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines classic tiramisu elegance with fruity cherry flavor

Creamy, light texture with a balanced sweetness and slight tartness

Easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining

Can be made ahead for stress-free serving

Visually stunning and festive for holidays or special occasions

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Over-soaking ladyfingers
Soaking them too long makes them mushy.
Solution: Dip quickly and gently into espresso-amaretto mixture.

Over-whipping mascarpone
Can cause the cream to split or become grainy.
Solution: Beat until just smooth and fluffy; stop when peaks form.

Cherry layer too watery
Juice can make layers soggy.
Solution: Drain preserves slightly and pat fresh cherries dry.

Skipping chilling time
The dessert won’t set properly and flavors won’t meld.
Solution: Chill at least 6 hours or overnight.

Uneven layering
Can look messy when sliced.
Solution: Spread each layer evenly with a spatula before adding the next.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve chilled with a dusting of cocoa and extra cherries

Pairs beautifully with coffee, amaretto, or sparkling wine

Ideal for plated desserts at dinner parties

Works well buffet-style for holiday gatherings

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Do not freeze to prevent cream from separating

Keep cherries on top for garnish just before serving

FAQs

1. Can I use decaf coffee?
Yes, strong decaf works without affecting flavor.

2. Can I replace amaretto?
Almond extract or cherry liqueur can substitute in equal measure.

3. How far in advance can I prepare this dessert?
Prepare up to 24 hours ahead; overnight chilling improves flavor.

4. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, but thaw and drain to avoid excess liquid.

5. Is there a nut-free option?
Skip almonds or any garnish containing nuts; the dessert remains delicious.

Tips & Tricks

Warm cherry preserves slightly for easier swirling

Gently fold mascarpone into whipped cream to avoid curdling

Use a serrated knife when slicing for clean edges

Layer carefully to keep presentation neat

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Cherry Tiramisu: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between mascarpone layers

Mini Parfaits: Layer in individual glasses for a portable treat

Berry Mix: Replace cherries with raspberries or mixed berries for seasonal variation

Final Thoughts

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu delivers a luxurious twist on the classic Italian dessert, balancing tart cherries with rich mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Its creamy layers, festive color, and elegant presentation make it perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or an indulgent weekend treat.

Creating this dessert brings warmth and anticipation to the kitchen, a reward not just for taste but for the joy of sharing something special. Each spoonful is a celebration of flavors and textures, making every gathering or quiet evening feel a little more extraordinary.

Decadent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Sandra Myers

Decadent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu combines espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and cherries for a luxurious holiday or dinner party treat.

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Calories

Ingredients

For the Layers

1 ¾ cups heavy cream
1 cup mascarpone cheese room temperature
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee cooled
3 tbsp amaretto liqueur
1 package 7 oz ladyfinger cookies
1 ½ cups cherry preserves or cherry pie filling
½ cup fresh cherries pitted and halved (plus extra for topping)

For Topping

Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Fresh cherries
Shaved chocolate or sliced almonds optional

Instructions

Whip heavy cream, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
Mix cooled espresso and amaretto.
Dip ladyfingers briefly in coffee mixture and line the dish.
Spread half the mascarpone cream over ladyfingers.
Layer half the cherry preserves and fresh cherries.
Repeat with remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cherry filling.
Chill at least 6 hours or overnight.
Decorate with cocoa powder, cherries, and optional chocolate or almonds; serve chilled.