If you’re craving something dreamy, creamy, and just a little boozy, this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is your new go-to dessert. It’s a no-bake treat that brings together layers of soft ladyfingers, whipped mascarpone, tart cherries, and the irresistible almond flavor of Amaretto. Perfect for warm weather entertaining or a cozy night in, it’s a beautiful twist on the Italian classic—no oven required and just the right amount of indulgence.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
This recipe is a total crowd-pleaser for so many reasons! First, it’s effortlessly elegant—you’ll impress guests without breaking a sweat. The combination of juicy cherries and rich Amaretto liqueur adds a sweet-tart kick that perfectly balances the creamy mascarpone layers. It’s no-bake, making it ideal for summer or whenever you want a quick dessert that still feels special. Plus, it can be made ahead, so you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying every bite.
Ingredients
This dessert comes together with simple ingredients you can easily find at most grocery stores. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this luscious layered treat:
- 1 cup Amaretto liqueur
- 1 1/2 cups brewed strong coffee or espresso, cooled
- 1 jar (about 20 oz) sour cherries in syrup, drained
- 1 pack (7 oz) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cherries (optional, for topping)
Instructions
This tiramisu is all about layering flavors and textures—no baking, no stress. Follow these simple steps for a dessert that looks as good as it tastes:
- Brew and Cool: Brew your coffee or espresso and let it cool to room temperature. Mix it with the Amaretto in a shallow bowl. Set aside.
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Make the Mascarpone Layer: In another bowl, mix the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream to create a light, fluffy filling.
- Soak the Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee-Amaretto mixture (don’t soak too long—they’ll fall apart!). Lay them in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×9 inch dish or trifle bowl.
- Layer It Up: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Top with half of the drained cherries. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone, and cherries.
- Chill Time: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings and top with fresh cherries if desired. Serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes enough to serve 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size—perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or just keeping in the fridge for your sweet tooth moments!
Total Time Breakdown:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours minimum (overnight recommended)
- Cook Time: None! It’s completely no-bake.
Tips and Variations
Want to make this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu your own? Here are some easy tweaks and ideas to suit your taste or what you have on hand:
- No Amaretto? Swap it with almond extract (use just 1–2 teaspoons) mixed into the coffee for a non-alcoholic version.
- Cherry Swap: Fresh or frozen cherries work great too—just simmer with a little sugar and water to soften if needed.
- Chocolate Boost: Add a thin layer of shaved dark chocolate or cocoa powder between the layers for a deeper flavor.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle crushed toasted almonds between the layers for added crunch.
- Mini Servings: Layer everything in individual glasses or mason jars for a cute, party-ready presentation.
- Vegan Option: Use coconut whipped cream, vegan mascarpone (or cream cheese), and plant-based ladyfingers.
Storage
Tiramisu actually gets better after sitting, which makes it a fantastic make-ahead dessert!
- Refrigerator: Store tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. The flavors deepen over time, and the texture stays deliciously creamy.
- Freezer: You can freeze it too! Wrap the dish well with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Note: texture may be slightly softer after freezing, but still yummy!
FAQs
Can I make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu without alcohol?
Absolutely! Just swap the Amaretto with almond extract (1–2 tsp) mixed into the coffee for that signature flavor without the booze.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes! Thaw and drain them first. You can also simmer them with a bit of sugar to soften and enhance their flavor.
What can I use instead of ladyfingers?
Try sponge cake slices or even vanilla wafers in a pinch. Just make sure they’re not too soft when dipping!
Is it okay to make this ahead of time?
Definitely. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight. Just cover and refrigerate.
Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?
Yes, store-bought whipped topping works if you’re short on time, but homemade whipped cream gives a fresher, richer taste.
Do I need to cook the mascarpone?
Nope! Mascarpone is a soft cheese that’s safe to eat as is. Just bring it to room temp before mixing for a smoother texture.
How do I prevent soggy ladyfingers?
Quick dips only! A fast 1-second dunk in the coffee-Amaretto mix is plenty—just enough to soften without turning mushy.
There you have it—your new favorite no-bake dessert! This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is creamy, fruity, and full of flavor, with just the right touch of elegance. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat (which you totally do), it’s an easy and impressive way to sweeten your day.
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Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
A dreamy, creamy, no-bake dessert layered with cherries, whipped mascarpone, and a splash of Amaretto—perfectly indulgent for any occasion.
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup Amaretto liqueur
- 1 1/2 cups brewed strong coffee or espresso, cooled
- 1 jar (about 20 oz) sour cherries in syrup, drained
- 1 pack (7 oz) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cherries (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Brew your coffee or espresso and let it cool to room temperature. Mix it with the Amaretto in a shallow bowl. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mix the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream to create a light, fluffy filling.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee-Amaretto mixture. Lay them in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×9 inch dish or trifle bowl.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Top with half of the drained cherries. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone, and cherries.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Before serving, sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings and top with fresh cherries if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Amaretto with 1–2 tsp almond extract. Try layering in crushed toasted almonds or shaved chocolate for added texture and richness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: tiramisu, cherry, amaretto, no-bake, dessert, mascarpone
