Description
A fruity twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu features ladyfingers soaked in cherry juice and amaretto syrup, layered with fluffy mascarpone cream and fresh cherries. It’s a no-bake treat perfect for special occasions.
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 the 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 soggy. Arrange a layer at the bottom of your serving dish.
- Add Cream Layer: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the soaked ladyfingers. 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 for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Top with extra cherries and shaved dark chocolate before serving.
Notes
- This recipe is alcohol-free, using amaretto-flavored syrup for the almond taste.
- Mascarpone can be substituted with cream cheese, but the flavor will be tangier.
- Frozen cherries can be used; thaw and drain them first.
- Firm ladyfingers work best.
- Make ahead for enhanced flavors.
- Chilling is essential for setting the layers.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dessert is not ideal for freezing.
- 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