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Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is my go-to treat when you're looking for something fancy but totally delicious with amazing fruity flavor. This dessert came from my obsession with cherry season and how amaretto can turn simple sweets into something special that feels luxurious while using plenty of shortcuts.
I first whipped this up using freshly-picked cherries and it was gone before we even sat down for dinner. Now I bring it to every family get-together during cherry season and the little ones can't wait to help me pit the cherries.
Delicious Ingredients
- Mascarpone cheese: Gives a subtle tanginess and creamy feel. Make sure to grab the freshest package you can find
- Heavy cream: Makes everything silky and fluffy. Go for the one with the most fat for the best texture
- Amaretto liqueur: Adds that wonderful almond flavor. Try to get real Italian brands for the best taste
- Cherry juice: Makes the flavor deeper and wets the ladyfingers. Try to find one without extra sugar
- Fresh cherries, chopped: Add nice chunks and a bit of tartness. Pick shiny, firm ones that won't get mushy
- Granulated sugar: Adds the sweetness we need. Stir well so it mixes in completely
- Cherry preserves: Brings intense cherry goodness. Get ones with whole fruit pieces for extra juiciness
- Vanilla extract: Makes all the flavors come together. Real vanilla works best for amazing smell
- Ladyfingers: The foundation of any tiramisu. They start crunchy but turn soft and cake-like
- Cocoa powder: Gives that perfect hint of bitterness on top. Always sift it to avoid clumps
- Dark chocolate, shaved: Adds little bits of rich flavor. Try 80% dark for the strongest chocolate kick
How to Make It
- Prepare the Mascarpone Base:
- Mix your mascarpone and heavy cream in a big bowl. Grab your mixer and beat them on medium until they get light and fluffy. This won't take long - maybe 2-3 minutes. You want it soft but not too firm.
- Layer in Flavor:
- Pour the amaretto, cherry juice and vanilla into your creamy mixture. Keep mixing on low-medium speed until everything's just blended together. You'll notice it smells amazing already.
- Sweeten Up:
- Take a small bowl and mix your sugar with the cherry preserves until they're well combined. Make sure to break up any clumps. Then add this sweet cherry mix to your mascarpone bowl and beat for another minute so the flavor spreads everywhere.
- Prepare the Cherries:
- Remove pits and cut your fresh cherries into small chunks. Set some aside for the top decoration. If you want, splash a bit of cherry juice on them for extra flavor.
- Soak the Ladyfingers:
- Mix what's left of your cherry juice with half the amaretto in a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger - don't leave them in too long or they'll fall apart. Line the bottom of your dish with them.
- Layer and Build:
- Spread half your mascarpone mix over the ladyfingers, making sure to reach the edges. Sprinkle chopped cherries on top. Then add another layer of soaked ladyfingers and finish with the rest of your mascarpone mix, smoothing the top.
- Chill and Finish:
- Cover your creation and stick it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but leaving it overnight works even better. The flavors need time to blend together. Before serving, dust cocoa powder all over the top and scatter your saved cherries and chocolate shavings.
What I love most is how the chocolate pieces stand out against the smooth mascarpone cream. My niece calls this her "happy cherry food" and always tries to snatch extra cherries from the top.
Flavor Boosters
Any leftovers should be wrapped tight with plastic and kept in the fridge. They'll stay good for about three days. Want to keep it longer? Freeze single servings in sealed containers and let them thaw in your fridge overnight. The chocolate might look a bit darker after thawing but will still taste amazing.
Serving Suggestions
Nothing beats a big scoop of this tiramisu with some fresh cherries piled on top. For fancy dinners, serve it with crunchy almond cookies or small glasses of cold amaretto. When I take it to outdoor parties, I make individual servings in little mason jars.
Creative Twists
Can't find fresh cherries? Don't worry - frozen cherries that you've thawed or drained jarred cherries work too. For the kids, skip the amaretto and use almond extract with extra cherry juice. If you're out of mascarpone, you can mix cream cheese with a good splash of heavy cream instead.
Make this once for your family and you'll want it every cherry season. My buddy asked for the recipe after just one bite - it's truly a dessert that creates memories.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What makes this tiramisu unique?
Juicy cherries and nutty amaretto liqueur give the traditional tiramisu layers a fruity twist and almond richness, turning an everyday dessert into something really special.
- → Can I substitute the amaretto?
Sure thing, you can use almond extract or more cherry juice if you want a booze-free version, though the taste will be a bit different.
- → How long should tiramisu chill before serving?
Pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours or leave it overnight so everything firms up and the flavors can mingle properly.
- → What cherries work best for this dessert?
Fresh sweet cherries with pits removed work great, but when they're not around, you can grab frozen ones or jarred cherries in their natural juice.
- → Can this dessert be made ahead?
You bet. Make it a day early and let it sit in the fridge so all those amazing flavors can blend together for an even tastier dessert.