Name: Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 6 h 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups pitted and halved fresh red cherries (about 22 ounces); 1/3 cup water; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 1 ½ cup heavy cream; 16 ounces mascarpone cheese; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2/3 cup cherry syrup (from recipe above); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 (7 oz) package Savoiardi ladyfingers (about 24); 2-4 Tablespoons Amaretto liqueur (such as Disaronno)

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Introduction

This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining fresh cherries and almond liqueur for a vibrant, fruity flavor. Creamy mascarpone layers and cherry-soaked ladyfingers make it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

4 cups pitted and halved fresh red cherries (about 22 ounces)
1/3 cup water
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons lemon juice
2-4 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur (Disaronno recommended)
1 ½ cups heavy cream
16 ounces mascarpone cheese
¾ cup granulated sugar
2/3 cup cherry syrup (from recipe below)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 (7 oz) package Savoiardi ladyfingers (about 24)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cherry Syrup. Place cherries and water in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Crush the cherries with a potato masher or fork. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 2 minutes.
Step 2: Remove the pan from heat and pour cherries into a fine-mesh strainer over a glass measuring cup. Press the cherries to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.
Step 3: Return the cherry juice to the pan. Add sugar and lemon juice, bring to a boil, then simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and chill in the refrigerator until fully cooled.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling. Whip heavy cream in a stand mixer with a whisk attachment until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a bowl.
Step 5: Replace the whisk with a paddle attachment in the mixer. Add mascarpone, sugar, 2/3 cup cherry syrup, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat on high until smooth.
Step 6: Add about one cup of whipped cream to the mascarpone mixture and beat to incorporate. Gently fold in the remaining whipped cream.
Step 7: Add Amaretto liqueur to the remaining cherry syrup, starting with 2 tablespoons. Taste and adjust up to 4 tablespoons if desired.
Step 8: Dip ladyfingers one at a time into the cherry syrup until soaked but not soggy. Arrange 12 in two neat rows along the bottom of an 8-inch square dish.
Step 9: Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers. Add another layer of syrup-soaked ladyfingers on top.
Step 10: Spread half of the remaining filling over the second layer. Transfer the rest of the filling to a pastry bag and pipe evenly over the tiramisu.
Step 11: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor, but frozen cherries can work if fresh are unavailable.
Adjust the Amaretto amount based on your preference for a stronger or milder almond flavor.
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Amaretto with almond extract diluted in water or cherry juice.
Line the dish with plastic wrap before assembling for easier removal and serving.

Storage

Store the tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor. Do not freeze, as the creamy layers may separate upon thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh?

Fresh cherries provide the best flavor and texture, but if using canned, drain them well and reduce added sugar in the syrup to avoid excess sweetness.

How long should I soak the ladyfingers?

Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the cherry syrup—about 1 to 2 seconds—so they absorb enough liquid without becoming soggy and falling apart during assembly.