Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

The decadent combination of sweet cherries and rich amaretto liqueur creates an irresistible aroma that wafts through your kitchen when preparing Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. This elegant twist on the classic Italian dessert transforms the traditional coffee-soaked layers into a fruity, almond-infused delight that balances sweetness and complexity. The Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu offers a sophisticated yet approachable dessert perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave something truly indulgent. You’ll learn how to create perfectly balanced layers of cherry-amaretto soaked ladyfingers, smooth mascarpone cream, and luscious cherry compote that will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu stands apart from traditional versions with its perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The amaretto-soaked ladyfingers offer a delicate almond foundation that pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart cherry compote. Each spoonful delivers a contrast between the cloud-like mascarpone cream and the slight resistance of the softened cookies.

What makes this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu truly special is its make-ahead convenience. The dessert actually improves after resting overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the textures to reach their perfect state. This makes it an ideal stress-free option for entertaining.

The visual appeal cannot be overstated – layers of ruby-red cherry compote peek through the creamy white mascarpone, creating a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Even kitchen novices can achieve impressive results with this forgiving yet sophisticated recipe that’s sure to become a cherished favorite.

Ingredients

For the Cherry Compote:

• 4 cups (600g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 16 oz (450g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup (60ml) amaretto liqueur
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• 2 packages (7oz/200g each) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) amaretto liqueur
• 1/4 cup (60ml) cherry juice (from compote)
• 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (25g) dark chocolate shavings

The quality of your amaretto significantly impacts the flavor of this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, so choose a premium brand if possible. Fresh cherries provide the best flavor during summer, but frozen cherries work wonderfully year-round. Authentic Italian savoiardi ladyfingers are ideal as they absorb the liquids perfectly without becoming soggy.

Pro Tips

Perfect Cherry Compote: To achieve the ideal consistency for your cherry amaretto tiramisu, cook the cherry compote until it thickens slightly but still maintains some texture. The cherries should be tender but not completely broken down. This provides pockets of fruity intensity throughout the dessert. Reserve the cherry juice from cooking to mix with amaretto for soaking the ladyfingers.

Temperature Control: Ensuring all dairy ingredients are at room temperature is crucial for a smooth, lump-free mascarpone cream. Cold mascarpone tends to seize and create unwanted texture issues. However, when working with the egg whites, use a perfectly clean, dry bowl and beaters for maximum volume. Fold the whipped whites into the mascarpone mixture gradually and gently to maintain airiness.

Strategic Soaking: The most common mistake in making tiramisu is over-soaking the ladyfingers. For perfect Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, quickly dip each ladyfinger into the amaretto-cherry juice mixture for literally 1-2 seconds per side. They should absorb some liquid but still maintain their structure. Remember they’ll continue soaking as the tiramisu rests, creating the perfect texture by serving time.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Compote

Begin by combining the pitted cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices. Remove from heat and stir in the amaretto liqueur and vanilla extract. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until completely cooled. Once cooled, strain the cherries, reserving 1/4 cup of the juice for soaking the ladyfingers.

Step 2: Create the Mascarpone Filling

In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with sugar until smooth and light. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually stir in the amaretto and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture in three additions, maintaining as much air as possible for that signature light texture that makes Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu so irresistible.

Step 3: Prepare the Soaking Liquid

In a shallow bowl, combine the amaretto liqueur with the reserved cherry juice. This flavorful mixture will transform the dry ladyfingers into tender, flavor-packed layers that complement the mascarpone cream perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble the Tiramisu

Select a 9×13-inch baking dish for your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the amaretto-cherry mixture (about 1-2 seconds per side) and arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing with an offset spatula. Spoon half of the cherry compote over the mascarpone layer, distributing evenly. Repeat with a second layer of soaked ladyfingers, remaining mascarpone cream, and cherry compote.

Step 5: Finish and Chill

Dust the top of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu with cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings for an elegant finish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to marry and the texture to reach perfection. This resting period transforms the separate components into a cohesive, sublime dessert experience.

Variations

Chocolate Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu: Enhance the chocolate elements by adding 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to your mascarpone mixture and layering thin slices of dark chocolate between the cherry compote layers. This creates a more decadent version of Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu that chocolate lovers will adore. The additional cocoa balances the sweetness of the cherries while intensifying the dessert’s richness.

Non-Alcoholic Cherry Tiramisu: For a family-friendly version, replace the amaretto liqueur with 1/4 cup almond extract mixed with 1/4 cup cherry juice for soaking the ladyfingers. For the mascarpone filling, substitute the amaretto with 1 tablespoon almond extract. This variation maintains the signature almond flavor that complements the cherries while making the dessert appropriate for all ages and preferences.

Individual Cherry Amaretto Tiramisus: Transform this recipe into elegant individual portions by assembling in clear glass dessert cups or ramekins. Layer mini ladyfingers with the mascarpone cream and cherry compote, creating 8-10 single-serving desserts perfect for dinner parties. This presentation showcases the beautiful layers of your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu and eliminates the need for cutting and serving.

Storage and Serving

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap. The flavors actually continue to develop during this time, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert. For the best texture and flavor, remove from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before serving to take the chill off.

For an elegant presentation, serve each portion on chilled dessert plates, garnished with fresh cherries, mint leaves, and additional chocolate shavings. A light dusting of fresh cocoa powder just before serving refreshes the appearance and adds a sophisticated touch.

Pair your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu with a small glass of amaretto, a shot of espresso, or a dessert wine like Recioto della Valpolicella that complements the cherry notes. For special occasions, consider serving with a scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream on the side to create a temperature and texture contrast that elevates the experience.

FAQs

Can I make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes, in fact, this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu benefits from being made 1-2 days ahead. The resting time allows the flavors to meld and the textures to develop perfectly. Just cover tightly and refrigerate.

Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Certainly! While cherries pair exceptionally well with amaretto, you could substitute raspberries, strawberries, or a combination of berries. Each will create a unique variation of the classic Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu with its own delightful flavor profile.

Are raw eggs safe in tiramisu?
Traditional tiramisu does contain raw eggs. If concerned, use pasteurized eggs or try an egg substitute specifically designed for desserts. Alternatively, you can prepare a zabaglione by gently cooking the egg yolks with sugar over a double boiler until they reach 160°F before incorporating into your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.

Can I freeze Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu?
While possible, freezing may slightly alter the texture of the mascarpone cream. If you need to freeze, do so before adding the final cocoa powder dusting. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh cocoa powder before serving.

What can I substitute for amaretto liqueur?
If you don’t have amaretto, you can use another almond-flavored liqueur, or even brandy or rum with a teaspoon of almond extract added. For a non-alcoholic version, use almond extract diluted with cherry juice as mentioned in the variations.

Conclusion

This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is comfort food at its finest — a luxurious symphony of sweet-tart cherries, almond-infused cream, and tender ladyfingers that melt in your mouth with each heavenly bite. It’s the kind of dessert that transforms ordinary gatherings into memorable occasions, offering both impressive presentation and unforgettable flavor. Whether served as the crowning glory of a dinner party or as a special treat for loved ones, this cherry-studded masterpiece proves that sometimes the most delightful pleasures come in the form of layers – layers of flavor, texture, and pure indulgence.

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