Decadent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

At the annual rooftop book club gathering hosted by my neighbor Lana an event filled with laughter, mismatched wine glasses, and shared stories I brought something new: Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Between chapters of mystery novels and sips of chilled rosé, this dessert stole the show. One friend who claimed to “not do cherries” went back for seconds. Another texted later asking if I could bring the same dish to her daughter’s graduation brunch.

It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t announce itself too loudly. No flamboyant layers or complicated bakes just velvety mascarpone, deep espresso kissed with amaretto, and cherries so rich they almost feel candied. That week, I tested the recipe three times once during a quiet Thursday evening when my kitchen window let in the scent of garden mint and my toddler played with measuring cups on the floor.

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu came to life between sips of strong coffee and stolen spoonfuls of cream. Each version got a little better. One had more cherries, one had less soak on the ladyfingers. By the time it made it to the club, it was ready. And watching people dive in with grins told me everything I needed to know.

Short Description

This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a luxurious twist on the classic Italian dessert. Layered with rich mascarpone cream, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and tart-sweet cherry preserves, it’s perfect for celebrations or slow weekends alike.

Key Ingredients

For the Layers

• 1 ¾ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)
• 3 tbsp amaretto liqueur
• 1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger cookies
• 1 ½ cups cherry preserves or cherry pie filling
• ½ cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved (plus extra for topping)

For Topping

• Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
• Fresh cherries
• Shaved chocolate or sliced almonds (optional)

Tools Needed

• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• 8×8-inch or similar dish
• Fine sieve (for dusting cocoa)
• Spatula

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Whip the Mascarpone Cream
In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip until smooth, fluffy, and soft peaks form. Set aside in the fridge.

Step 2: Prepare the Soak
In a shallow bowl, stir together the cooled espresso and amaretto. Taste and adjust liqueur if desired.

Step 3: Dip and Layer the Ladyfingers
Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (just 1–2 seconds per side) and place them in a single layer in the dish. Don’t oversoak—they should stay intact but absorb flavor.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cherries
Spread half the mascarpone cream over the soaked ladyfingers. Spoon half the cherry preserves and fresh cherries over the cream, distributing evenly.

Step 5: Repeat and Chill
Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream and cherries. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.

Step 6: Decorate and Serve
Just before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder. Garnish with fresh cherries and optional chocolate shavings or almonds. Slice chilled and serve with a clean knife.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No baking required perfect for warmer days

Balanced sweetness from cherries and espresso

Light yet indulgent texture

Great make-ahead dessert for hosting

Elegant presentation for holidays or brunches

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Oversoaking the Ladyfingers
They turn soggy and lose structure.
Solution: Dip for only 1–2 seconds on each side—just enough to soak the outer layer.

Runny Mascarpone Cream
The filling won’t hold shape if undermixed.
Solution: Whip until soft peaks form. If it’s too loose, refrigerate for 15 minutes and whip briefly again.

Using Warm Coffee
Can melt the cream and ruin texture.
Solution: Always cool your espresso fully before assembling.

Skipping the Chill Time
The flavors don’t get a chance to blend.
Solution: Allow a minimum of 6 hours, but overnight yields the best results.

Too Much Cherry Filling
Can overwhelm the mascarpone.
Solution: Stick to the recommended 1 ½ cups for balance.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve chilled with a dusting of cocoa

Pair with a hot cup of espresso or amaretto-spiked coffee

Add a splash of whipped cream on the side

Serve plated individually or family-style in the dish

For brunch, pair with mimosas or cherry prosecco spritz

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days

Do not freeze texture will change

Serve cold straight from the fridge

Keep garnishes like cocoa and almonds separate until ready to serve

For clean slices, use a warm knife and wipe between cuts

FAQs

1. Can I substitute mascarpone with cream cheese?
You can, but the flavor will be tangier and texture slightly heavier. Try mixing half mascarpone and half cream cheese for balance.

2. Is there a non-alcoholic alternative to amaretto?
Yes, use 1 tsp almond extract mixed with 3 tbsp water or extra coffee.

3. Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

4. How far in advance can I make this dessert?
You can prepare it 1–2 days ahead. Keep covered and chilled until ready to serve.

5. What if I don’t have espresso?
Use very strong brewed coffee instead. Instant espresso powder also works in a pinch.

Tips & Tricks

• Use high-quality cherry preserves for best flavor
• Taste the coffee soak before dipping—adjust sweetness or amaretto as needed
• Line the dish with parchment if you want to lift it out before serving
• If serving at a party, prep in individual cups or jars
• Always chill thoroughly to help the layers set

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Cherry Tiramisu
Replace amaretto with chocolate liqueur. Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the mascarpone cream. Garnish with dark chocolate curls.

Vegan Cherry Tiramisu
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, vegan cream cheese in place of mascarpone, and plant-based ladyfingers. Use almond extract instead of amaretto.

Cherry Pistachio Tiramisu
Add chopped roasted pistachios between layers for crunch and nutty depth. Top with crushed pistachios before serving.

Lemon-Cherry Tiramisu
Swap amaretto for limoncello. Add lemon zest to the cream for a brighter twist. Use cherry preserves as-is.

Final Thoughts

The joy of Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu often begins long before that first bite. There’s a rhythm to assembling it the dip, the spread, the cherries glistening as they go down. Some days, I layer it while the house hums with weekend chatter. Other days, it’s made late at night, with only the soft whir of the fridge and the scent of amaretto filling the kitchen.

This dessert brings people closer to the table. It carries elegance without being fussy, richness without being heavy. When served cold on a sun-dappled patio or passed around after dinner, it always earns that quiet moment when the first spoonful is met with a smile and silence, because everyone’s busy enjoying every layer.