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
Scale
- 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