Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a luscious twist on the classic Italian dessert, infusing layers of creamy mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and sweet cherries with the warm, nutty flavor of amaretto.
If you’re tired of dry, overcooked chicken breasts or overly sweet desserts, this recipe delivers a perfectly balanced treat that’s creamy, fruity, and indulgent yet effortlessly elegant. At dishfoody.com, the goal is to turn beloved classics into delicious, approachable recipes that delight every palate.
This article will guide you through why this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu works, selecting quality ingredients, preparing the layers, detailed step-by-step instructions, expert tips, flavor variations, serving suggestions, and FAQs.
Why This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Recipe Works
- Uses vibrant cherries and aromatic amaretto to elevate traditional tiramisu
- Combines creamy mascarpone with coffee-soaked ladyfingers for irresistible texture
- Easy to assemble, requiring no baking for a quick yet impressive dessert
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Best Ingredients for This Recipe
Fresh or frozen pitted cherries offer natural tartness balanced with sweetness. High-quality mascarpone cheese ensures richness and creaminess. Use proper espresso or strong coffee and authentic amaretto liqueur for depth.
Buying Tips
Choose ripe, firm cherries or unsweetened frozen cherries. Opt for full-fat mascarpone and pure amaretto.
Substitutions
Cherry juice or cherry brandy can replace fresh cherries or amaretto. Use vegan mascarpone substitutes for dairy-free versions.
Ingredients & Prep for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
- 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- ¼ cup amaretto liqueur
- 3 large eggs, separated
- ¾ cup granulated sugar, divided
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 24 ladyfinger cookies
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Optional: chocolate shavings or cherries for garnish

Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Pre-Cooking Prep
Whisk espresso and amaretto in a shallow dish. Whip egg yolks with half sugar until pale; separately whip egg whites with remaining sugar to stiff peaks.
Cooking Method
- Fold mascarpone gently into egg yolks until smooth. Carefully fold in egg whites for airy texture.
- Dip ladyfingers quickly into espresso-amaretto mixture (do not soak). Arrange half in the bottom of a serving dish.
- Spread half the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Scatter half the cherries evenly.
- Repeat layers with remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone, and cherries.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 4–6 hours or overnight to set and develop flavors.
- Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings and extra cherries.
Doneness Check
Layers should be set but creamy, with distinct fruit and coffee flavor.
Resting
Chill thoroughly for best texture and taste melding.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
- Use fresh eggs or pasteurized eggs for safety.
- Avoid over-soaking ladyfingers to keep texture intact.
- Chill overnight for rich, blended flavors.
Flavor Variations for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Spicy Twist
Add cinnamon or nutmeg to mascarpone mixture.
Keto/Paleo
Use sugar substitutes and almond flour pound cake slices instead of ladyfingers.
Global Flavors
- French: Add lavender or orange blossom water.
- American: Incorporate bourbon and chocolate chips.
- Italian: Add lemon zest to mascarpone for freshness.
| Variation | Key Ingredient | Dietary Tag | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spicy Twist | Cinnamon, nutmeg | Warm | Spiced, aromatic |
| Keto/Paleo | Almond flour cake | Low-carb | Nutty, moist |
| Global Flavors | Lavender, bourbon | Exotic | Floral, bold |
Serving Suggestions for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Serve chilled in elegant glasses or a trifle dish. Pair with espresso, dessert wine, or sparkling water.
FAQs for Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
- Can I use jarred cherry pie filling? Yes, drain to avoid excess liquid.
- How long can I store? Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days.
- Is this dessert safe for pregnant women? Use pasteurized eggs or egg substitutes for safety.
Conclusion
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a luxurious, fruity take on the classic dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for celebrations or casual indulgence. Creamy, coffee-infused layers with vibrant cherries create a delight in every bite. For more inspired desserts, visit dishfoody.com and try our Tiramisu Cookies next!
PrintCherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a luscious twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream and sweet cherry-Amaretto layers.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tbsp Amaretto liqueur
- 24 ladyfingers
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 2 tbsp cherry preserves
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- 1. Mix espresso and Amaretto in a shallow dish.
- 2. Dip ladyfingers briefly in the espresso mixture; layer in a serving dish.
- 3. Beat mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and stiff peaks form.
- 4. Spread half the mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers.
- 5. Layer cherries and cherry preserves over the mascarpone.
- 6. Repeat with remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture.
- 7. Dust top with cocoa powder.
- 8. Refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use good quality mascarpone for best texture.
- Fresh cherries add brightness but frozen works well.
- Adjust liqueur amount to taste or substitute with almond extract.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: cherry amaretto tiramisu, fruit tiramisu, no-bake dessert, layered dessert

