Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve found it! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat is the perfect way to celebrate any occasion, from busy weeknights to family gatherings. This luscious treat combines the rich creaminess of mascarpone with the bright flavor of cherries and the comforting aroma of coffee. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings everyone together.
What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. With no baking required, you can whip it up in no time. Just imagine your loved ones digging into this beautiful layered dessert, savoring every bite. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely adore making and sharing this delightful treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation: No need to turn on the oven! This no-bake dessert comes together quickly.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet cherry flavor and creamy texture.
- Make-ahead magic: Perfect for prepping in advance; just let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
- Elegant presentation: The layers of colors make for a stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
- Versatile flavors: You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! For this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, you’ll need some simple, wholesome components that bring out all those delicious flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cream Mixture
- 1 Âľ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- â…“ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Coffee Layer
- 1 ½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)
- 3 tbsp almond-flavored liqueur
For the Assembly
- 1 package (about 7 oz) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1 ½ cups cherry preserves or cherry pie filling
- ½ cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved (plus more for topping)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Fresh cherries (with stems, optional)
- Shaved chocolate or sliced almonds (optional)
Variations
One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your mood. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Try different fruit preserves: Swap out cherry preserves for raspberry or strawberry for a fruity twist.
- Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream and vegan cream cheese to create a dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.
- Add a crunch: Toss in some crushed nuts between layers for extra texture.
- Infuse with flavors: Use flavored coffee instead of regular espresso to add an exciting twist to each bite.
How to Make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
Step 1: Whip Up the Cream Mixture
In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This step is crucial because it gives your tiramisu its light and airy texture. Once you’ve reached that point, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and fluffy. You want it creamy but not over-whipped!
Step 2: Prepare Your Coffee Layer
In a shallow bowl, combine the cooled espresso with almond-flavored liqueur. This mixture gives your ladyfingers that lovely coffee flavor without being too soggy. Remember, quick dips are key here—just enough to soak up some flavor without falling apart!
Step 3: Assemble Your Layers
Start by lining the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish with dipped ladyfingers. It’s like laying down a delicious foundation for your dessert! Next, spread half of your mascarpone cream mixture over these cookies before layering half of your cherry preserves and fresh cherry halves on top.
Step 4: Repeat Those Layers!
Now it’s time for round two! Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers followed by the remaining mascarpone cream mixture and finish off with any remaining cherry mixture. This repetition creates those beautiful layers that make tiramisu so special.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover your assembled tiramisu and pop it in the refrigerator for at least six hours—or better yet, overnight if you can wait! Chilling allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve with Style
Just before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and decorate with fresh cherries or shaved chocolate if desired. Slice up generous portions, serve chilled, and get ready for compliments!
Now you’re ready to enjoy this decadent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert! Each bite is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy indulging!
Pro Tips for Making Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
Creating this delicious dessert is a breeze, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll ensure it’s absolutely perfect!
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Choose the Right Coffee: Using strong brewed espresso or coffee enhances the flavor of the ladyfingers. The depth of flavor will beautifully complement the sweetness of the cherries and cream.
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Don’t Soak the Ladyfingers: A quick dip is all that’s needed! Soaking them too long can lead to soggy layers. The goal is to keep them light and airy while still infusing them with flavor.
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Use Room Temperature Mascarpone: This ensures that your mascarpone cream blends smoothly without lumps. A creamy texture is essential for that luxurious mouthfeel.
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Chill Overnight for Best Flavor: Allowing the tiramisu to chill overnight lets the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in an even tastier dessert. Patience pays off here!
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Experiment with Variations: Feel free to swap out cherry preserves for other fruit preserves like raspberry or strawberry if you’re looking for a different twist. Each fruit brings its own unique brightness to the dessert!
How to Serve Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
When it comes to serving your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, presentation is key! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your dessert experience.
Garnishes
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- Fresh Mint Leaves*: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall presentation and flavor.
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- Dark Chocolate Shavings*: These add an elegant touch and contrast nicely with the sweetness of the tiramisu, providing a rich chocolatey note.
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- Additional Cherry Halves*: Placing fresh cherries on top not only makes for a stunning visual but also highlights the cherry flavor in each bite.
Side Dishes
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- Espresso*: Serving a small cup of espresso alongside your tiramisu creates a wonderful pairing, enhancing the coffee flavors already present in the dessert.
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- Biscotti*: These crunchy Italian cookies provide a nice textural contrast and can be enjoyed as a side treat while savoring your tiramisu.
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- Vanilla Gelato*: The creamy texture and cool temperature complement the rich tiramisu perfectly, making each bite feel indulgent and refreshing.
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- Fresh Fruit Salad*: A light fruit salad can balance out the richness of the tiramisu, adding brightness and freshness to your dessert plate.
With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress your guests (and yourself!) with this decadent treat. Enjoy every luscious layer!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make it in advance for gatherings, celebrations, or simply to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store it effectively:
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.
- If you’re concerned about the dessert becoming too soft, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing.
Freezing
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions.
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
- There’s no need to reheat this dessert, as it’s served cold.
- Simply remove from the fridge or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
If you have questions about making this delightful dessert, you’re in the right place! Here are some common queries:
Can I use a different flavor instead of cherry preserves in my Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruit preserves like raspberry or blueberry for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
How long does Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert need to chill?
For optimal flavor and texture, it’s best to chill your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert for at least 6 hours, but overnight is even better!
What can I use instead of ladyfingers in this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert?
You can substitute ladyfingers with sponge cake or even homemade vanilla wafers if you prefer. Just ensure they soak up the espresso mixture without becoming too soggy.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for mascarpone cheese?
Yes! You can try using a dairy-free mascarpone substitute made from cashews or coconut cream if you’re looking for a non-dairy option in your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to treat yourself and your loved ones with its creamy layers and delightful cherry flavor. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe for your next gathering or just because you deserve a little indulgence. Happy baking!
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
Indulge in the delightful Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert, a luscious twist on the classic Italian treat. Layered with rich mascarpone cream, vibrant cherry preserves, and bold coffee flavors, this no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 Âľ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- â…“ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 7 oz ladyfinger cookies
- 1 ½ cups cherry preserves or cherry pie filling
- Fresh cherries (for topping)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Fold in mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a shallow bowl, combine cooled coffee with almond-flavored syrup for flavor.
- Dip ladyfingers quickly in the coffee mixture and layer them at the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish.
- Spread half of the cream mixture over the ladyfingers, followed by half of the cherry preserves and fresh cherries.
- Repeat layers: add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, remaining cream mixture, and top with remaining cherry preserves.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least six hours or overnight.
- Dust with cocoa powder before serving and garnish with fresh cherries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
