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Cherry “Amaretto” Tiramisu | Fruity & Nutty Twist on a Classic Dessert

Tiramisu is already a beloved Italian classic, but when you add sweet-tart cherries and the nutty essence of almond, it becomes something truly special. This Cherry “Amaretto” Tiramisu is a no-bake dessert that layers creamy mascarpone, chocolate, cherries, and soft ladyfingers soaked in a cherry-almond mixture. It’s light yet indulgent, elegant yet easy to make, and perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or when you want a make-ahead dessert that always impresses. With its beautiful cherry swirls and dusting of cocoa, this tiramisu is as stunning as it is delicious.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
chill time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fresh cherries pitted and chopped
  • ½ cup cherry juice
  • 2 tbsp cherry preserves
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup dark chocolate grated or finely chopped
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 package ladyfingers
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups mascarpone cheese
  • 1 tsp almond extract to replace amaretto liqueur
  • Extra cherry juice to replace alcohol soak

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (large & medium)
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • 8x8-inch baking dish (or trifle dish for presentation)
  • Fine mesh strainer (for dusting cocoa)

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare cherry mixture
  1. In a small bowl, stir cherry juice and cherry preserves together.
  2. Add almond extract for that signature “Amaretto” flavor.
Step 2: Whip the cream
  1. In a large bowl, beat heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Step 3: Make mascarpone filling
  1. Gently fold mascarpone cheese into whipped cream until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Dip the ladyfingers
  1. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cherry-almond juice mixture (don’t soak, or they’ll fall apart).
  2. Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of your dish.
Step 5: Layer the tiramisu
  1. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
  2. Sprinkle with half of the chopped cherries and some grated dark chocolate.
  3. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, cherries, and chocolate.
Step 6: Finish & chill
  1. Dust the top with cocoa powder.
  2. Refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to let flavors develop.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Keeps up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Freeze slices individually for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before serving.
Reheating: Not needed—serve chilled.
🥄 Variations
Berry Twist: Use raspberries or strawberries instead of cherries.
Mocha Cherry: Add 2 tsp instant coffee to the cream for a cherry mocha vibe.
Chocolate Lovers’: Add a thin layer of chocolate ganache between cream layers.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ladyfingers.
Mini Servings: Layer in small cups or jars for individual tiramisu portions.
Holiday Style: Garnish with sugared cherries and shaved white chocolate.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I make this without mascarpone?
Yes—substitute with cream cheese, but the flavor will be tangier.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, just thaw and drain before chopping.
What if I don’t have cherry preserves?
Use strawberry or raspberry jam.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it’s actually better when made the day before.
Do I have to use almond extract?
No, but it gives that signature Amaretto flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
Do kids enjoy this dessert?
Absolutely—it’s sweet, fruity, and alcohol-free.
Can I use chocolate ladyfingers?
Yes, for an extra decadent twist.
Why do ladyfingers get soggy?
They were over-soaked. Dip quickly, don’t let them sit.
What garnish works best?
Fresh cherries, shaved chocolate, or extra cocoa powder.
🏁 Conclusion
This Cherry “Amaretto” Tiramisu is the perfect no-bake dessert that feels fancy but comes together effortlessly. With layers of juicy cherries, mascarpone cream, chocolate, and cherry-almond soaked ladyfingers, every bite is a dreamy balance of fruity and nutty flavors.
It’s refreshing yet indulgent, making it a standout dessert for holidays, parties, or anytime you want something truly special.