Description
This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a luscious twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the rich creaminess of mascarpone and heavy cream with the sweet, fruity flavors of fresh cherries and cherry preserves. Infused with amaretto liqueur and cherry juice, layered with delicate ladyfingers, and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder and dark chocolate shavings, this no-bake dessert offers an indulgent balance of smooth textures and vibrant cherry notes, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dairy and Cream
- 2 cups mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
Liquids and Extracts
- 1/2 cup amaretto liqueur
- 1/2 cup cherry juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruits and Preserves
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons cherry preserves
Sweeteners and Baking
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package ladyfingers
Garnish
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, shaved or grated
Instructions
- Combine mascarpone and cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream, preparing the base for the creamy mixture.
- Beat until fluffy: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and fluffy.
- Add amaretto, cherry juice, and vanilla: Pour the amaretto liqueur, cherry juice, and vanilla extract into the mascarpone mixture.
- Beat to combine: Beat the mixture again for 1-2 minutes until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Mix sugar and cherry preserves: In a separate small bowl, stir together granulated sugar and cherry preserves until combined.
- Incorporate preserves mixture: Add the sugar and cherry preserves blend to the mascarpone mixture, beating for an additional minute to fully combine.
- Fold in fresh cherries: Gently fold the chopped fresh cherries into the creamy mixture until evenly distributed.
- Prepare soaking liquid: In a shallow dish, pour amaretto liqueur and cherry juice mixture for dipping ladyfingers.
- Dip ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the liquid, ensuring they absorb some flavor but do not become soggy.
- First ladyfinger layer: Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- First mascarpone layer: Spread half of the mascarpone cherry mixture evenly over the ladyfingers layer using a spatula.
- Second ladyfinger layer: Dip ladyfingers again and arrange another layer on top of the mascarpone mixture.
- Second mascarpone layer: Spread the remaining mascarpone cherry mixture evenly over the second ladyfinger layer.
- Chill the tiramisu: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to let the flavors meld and dessert firm up.
- Dust with cocoa powder: Before serving, sift cocoa powder over the top of the tiramisu with a fine mesh strainer for an elegant finish.
- Add dark chocolate garnish: Sprinkle shaved or grated dark chocolate evenly over the cocoa layer to enhance flavor and presentation.
- Serve chilled: Serve the tiramisu cold and enjoy the rich, indulgent blend of cherry, amaretto, and mascarpone flavors.
Notes
- For best results, allow the tiramisu to refrigerate overnight to develop depth of flavor and proper texture.
- Do not soak ladyfingers too long to prevent sogginess; a quick dip is sufficient.
- Fresh cherries can be substituted with frozen, just ensure they are thawed and drained well.
- Amaretto liqueur can be replaced with another almond-flavored liqueur or non-alcoholic almond extract for a kid-friendly version.
- Use high-quality mascarpone and fresh cream for the creamiest texture and richest taste.
