Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu has become my go-to showstopper dessert, transforming a simple weeknight into a celebration. I first tasted this fruity twist on the classic Italian dessert at my aunt’s summer party, and the combination of sweet cherries and that subtle almond aroma completely captivated me. It’s a no-bake dessert that feels incredibly elegant, making it perfect for any occasion. The creamy mascarpone and delicate ladyfingers soaked in cherry juice and amaretto syrup create a symphony of flavors and textures. I love how it’s an easy ground turkey recipe that still feels so special. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
You’re going to adore this dessert! It’s a truly simple one pan creamy meat dish that delivers incredible flavor without the fuss.
- Incredible Taste: A delightful balance of sweet cherries and almond notes with a creamy, dreamy texture.
- Quick Prep Time: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect quick creamy meat dinner option.
- Healthier Choice: This recipe is vegetarian and uses fresh fruit, offering a lighter dessert alternative.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples, making it an easy one pan creamy meat dish that won’t break the bank.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this fruity, creamy treat. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This easy one pan creamy meat recipe tastes even better the next day, perfect for entertaining.
- Elegant Presentation: It looks sophisticated, but it’s truly a simple one pan creamy meat dish to assemble.
Ingredients for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Here’s everything you need for this delightful, creamy meat skillet dinner. This simple one pan creamy meat dish comes together with just a few key components:
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi) – these are the base for our creamy meat recipe, soaking up the delicious liquids.
- 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or thawed frozen) – for that fruity burst that makes this a unique creamy meat and potato skillet.
- 1/2 cup cherry juice – adds extra cherry flavor and helps moisten the ladyfingers in this easy one pan creamy meat.
- 3 tablespoons amaretto syrup (non-alcoholic) – this is the secret to that lovely almond essence in our best one pan creamy meat.
- 1/2 cup sugar – balances the tartness of the cherries and sweetens the mascarpone cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall sweet flavor profile of this simple one pan creamy meat.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream – the foundation for our light and airy mascarpone cream, making it a truly creamy meat recipe one pan wonder.
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened – gives the cream its signature richness and smooth texture, essential for any creamy meat skillet dinner.
- Extra cherries for topping – for a beautiful finish to this quick creamy meat dinner.
- Shaved dark chocolate (optional, for garnish) – adds a touch of elegance and a hint of bitterness to complement the sweetness.

How to Make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
This elegant dessert comes together with surprising ease. Follow these steps for a truly memorable creamy meat skillet dinner.
- Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Mixture. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups pitted cherries with 1/4 cup of sugar and a splash of water. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the cherries soften and release their beautiful juices, creating the base for our one pan creamy meat dish. Remove from heat, let it cool completely, then stir in the 1/2 cup cherry juice and 3 tablespoons amaretto syrup. This mixture is key to our creamy meat recipe one pan wonder.
- Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream with the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This is where the magic starts for our easy one pan creamy meat. Gently fold in the 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened, until the mixture is smooth and airy, creating a luscious texture worthy of a simple one pan creamy meat dish.
- Step 3: Dip and Layer Ladyfingers. Quickly dip each of the 24 ladyfinger cookies into the cooled cherry-amaretto mixture. Be swift – you want them soaked but not soggy, ensuring they hold their shape in this creamy meat and potato skillet. Arrange a single layer of these soaked cookies at the bottom of your serving dish.
- Step 4: Add the Cream Layer. Spread half of the creamy mascarpone mixture evenly over the soaked ladyfingers. The aroma at this stage is divine, hinting at the delicious quick creamy meat dinner to come. Add a layer of the prepared cooked cherries on top of the cream.
- Step 5: Repeat Layers. Add another layer of the dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the top gently with a spatula. This ensures every bite of your best one pan creamy meat will be perfect.
- Step 6: Chill and Serve. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly, making it a truly easy skillet creamy meat dinner. Before serving your delicious creamy ground meat skillet recipe, top with extra cherries and optional shaved dark chocolate for a stunning presentation.

Pro Tips for the Best Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
To ensure your dessert is absolutely divine, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures every time, making this a truly effortless creamy meat dish.
- For the most vibrant cherry flavor, use fresh, ripe cherries. If using frozen, thaw them completely and drain off excess liquid before cooking.
- Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers! A quick dip is all they need. Soggy ladyfingers will make your dessert mushy, which is not ideal for this creamy meat recipe one pan wonder.
- Ensure your mascarpone cheese is truly softened. This makes it easier to incorporate into the whipped cream without overmixing, keeping the cream light and airy.
- Chill time is non-negotiable! This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the tiramisu to set properly, making it a perfect quick creamy meat dinner.
What’s the secret to perfect Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
The real secret lies in the balance of flavors and not overworking the ingredients. A quick dip of the ladyfingers and gently folding the mascarpone cheese are key. It’s a simple one pan creamy meat dish that relies on quality ingredients. For more insights into achieving dessert perfection, check out these dessert recipes.
Can I make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is actually best made ahead. Preparing it the day before allows the flavors to deepen and the ladyfingers to soften perfectly. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert, ideal for busy hosts. You can learn more about our approach to recipes here.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
Avoid over-soaking the ladyfingers, as this leads to a mushy texture. Also, be careful not to overmix the mascarpone into the whipped cream; fold it gently to keep the filling light and fluffy. Understanding the science behind baking can help prevent these issues; learn more about baking techniques.
Best Ways to Serve Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
This showstopping Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a dessert that truly shines on its own, but a few thoughtful pairings can elevate your dining experience even further. Imagine serving this elegant, fruity twist on a classic Italian dessert after a meal. It’s a perfect ending to any dinner, especially when you’re looking for a simple one pan creamy meat dish that feels gourmet.
- Serve Chilled: Always serve this dessert well-chilled, as the flavors meld beautifully and the texture is at its best. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side is a delightful addition, creating a wonderful contrast to the creamy meat recipe one pan wonder.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: A strong espresso or a delicate herbal tea complements the sweetness of the cherries and the almond notes of the amaretto syrup perfectly. This makes it an ideal choice for a quick creamy meat dinner treat.
- Light Accompaniments: For a lighter touch, consider serving it with a small side of fresh berries or a few delicate shortbread cookies. This makes it feel like part of a larger, yet still easy one pan creamy meat dish, spread.
Nutrition Facts for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
This fruity twist on the classic Italian dessert offers a delightful balance of flavors. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving of this easy one pan creamy meat dish:
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 35mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in this creamy meat skillet dinner. For more information on dietary guidelines, consult resources like the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
How to Store and Reheat Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Proper storage is key to keeping this delightful Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu tasting its best, ensuring it remains a perfect make-ahead dessert. Once it has fully cooled after assembly, transfer it to an airtight container. This simple step is crucial for maintaining its creamy texture and preventing it from absorbing any odors from your refrigerator. You can store this easy one pan creamy meat dish in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
If you find yourself with extra, you’ll be happy to know this dessert freezes beautifully! For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it a convenient option for future quick creamy meat dinners. To reheat, simply thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. There’s no need to reheat it further, as it’s best served chilled. Enjoy this simple one pan creamy meat dish whenever the craving strikes! For more make-ahead tips, visit our homepage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Can I use regular milk instead of heavy whipping cream?
While you can substitute regular milk for heavy whipping cream in a pinch, it will significantly alter the texture of your dessert. Heavy cream is essential for achieving that signature light, airy, and creamy mascarpone filling that makes this a standout simple one pan creamy meat dish. Using lower-fat milk will result in a thinner, less rich cream, making it more like a pudding than a tiramisu. For the best outcome, stick with heavy whipping cream for this easy one pan creamy meat recipe.
What can I serve with Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
This dessert is lovely on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of espresso or a delicate herbal tea, which complements the fruity and almond notes. If you’re serving it after a meal, consider it the perfect sweet ending to a flavorful Italian-inspired dinner. It’s a fantastic complement to lighter main courses, making it feel like part of a cohesive, yet simple one pan creamy meat dish experience. Avoid overly heavy sides; the tiramisu is rich enough!
Is it okay to use alcohol in this recipe?
The recipe calls for non-alcoholic amaretto syrup to keep it family-friendly and accessible. However, if you prefer an authentic tiramisu with a kick, you can absolutely substitute the amaretto syrup with 2-3 tablespoons of actual amaretto liqueur. You might also consider reducing the cherry juice slightly if using alcohol, as it can intensify the liquid content. This is a great way to customize this creamy meat recipe one pan wonder to your taste.
My ladyfingers are too soggy. What did I do wrong?
The most common pitfall with tiramisu is over-soaking the ladyfingers! They should be dipped very quickly, just a second or two per side, allowing them to absorb just enough liquid to soften but not disintegrate. If they are too soggy, they will break apart and create a mushy texture, which isn’t ideal for this creamy meat skillet dinner. Be swift and confident with your dipping!
Variations of Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu You Can Try
While this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is already a delightful treat, don’t be afraid to get creative and adapt it to your preferences! Exploring different flavors and dietary options can lead to exciting new ways to enjoy this simple one pan creamy meat dish.
- Berry Blast: Swap the cherries for a mix of fresh or frozen berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. This creates a vibrant, slightly tarter flavor profile, turning it into a beautiful berry-themed creamy meat recipe one pan wonder.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add a layer of chocolate shavings or cocoa powder between the mascarpone layers for an extra decadent touch. You could even use chocolate-dipped ladyfingers for an ultimate creamy meat skillet dinner experience.
- Boozy Version: For an adult-only treat, replace the amaretto syrup with 2-3 tablespoons of actual amaretto liqueur. You can also add a splash of cherry brandy to the cherry mixture for an even richer flavor, perfect for a quick creamy meat dinner.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream and a dairy-free mascarpone alternative or soaked cashews blended into a cream. This makes it a fantastic option for those seeking a healthier one pan creamy meat dish without compromising on taste.

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu: Divine No-Bake Dessert
- Total Time: 35 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fruity twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu features ladyfingers soaked in cherry juice and amaretto syrup, layered with a light mascarpone cream and topped with fresh cherries. It’s a no-bake dessert that offers a refreshing and elegant treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1/2 cup cherry juice
- 3 tablespoons amaretto syrup (non-alcoholic)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- Extra cherries for topping
- Shaved dark chocolate (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the pitted cherries with 1/4 cup of sugar and a splash of water. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until cherries soften and release juices. Remove from heat, let cool, and stir in the cherry juice and amaretto syrup.
- Make the Mascarpone Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the softened mascarpone cheese until smooth and airy.
- Dip and Layer Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cherry-amaretto mixture, ensuring they are soaked but not falling apart. Arrange a layer at the bottom of a serving dish.
- Add Cream Layer: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the soaked ladyfingers, smoothing evenly. Add a layer of the cooked cherries on top.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the top gently.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Before serving, top with extra cherries and optional dark chocolate shavings.
Notes
- This recipe is alcohol-free, using amaretto-flavored syrup for the almond taste.
- Mascarpone cheese can be substituted with cream cheese, but the flavor will be tangier.
- Frozen cherries work well; thaw and drain them before use.
- Use firm ladyfingers for best results.
- This dessert is best made ahead, as flavors meld overnight.
- Do not skip the chilling time for the layers to set properly.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximate)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
