Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that will impress your friends and family, look no further! This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert is a decadent twist on a classic Italian treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just want to indulge yourself after a long day, this luscious, no-bake dessert brings together the rich flavors of espresso, creamy mascarpone, and sweet cherry preserves in every bite.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and elegance. The layers of espresso-dipped ladyfingers and fluffy mascarpone cream come together effortlessly, creating a dessert that feels fancy but is so easy to prepare. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to share something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and no baking required, you’ll have this delightful dessert ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves tiramisu! This version is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before your gathering and let it chill—less stress for you!
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of cherry preserves and amaretto adds a unique twist that will wow your guests.
- Versatile Presentation: You can dress it up with toppings like fresh cherries or shaved chocolate for an elegant touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this irresistible Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert, you only need some simple, wholesome ingredients. You might already have many of these in your kitchen!
For the Cream Mixture
- 1 ¾ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- â…“ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Tiramisu Layers
- 1 ½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)
- 3 tbsp almond-flavored liqueur (amaretto)
For Assembly
- 1 package (about 7 oz) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1 ½ cups cherry preserves or cherry pie filling
- ½ cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved (plus more for topping)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Fresh cherries (with stems, optional)
- Shaved chocolate or sliced almonds (optional)
Variations
One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:
- Change the Fruit: Swap out cherries for strawberries or raspberries if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Try Different Spirits: Instead of amaretto, use almond extract mixed with water for a non-alcoholic option.
- Make It Chocolatey: Add cocoa powder to the mascarpone mixture for a rich chocolate version!
- Use Flavored Coffee: Experiment with flavored coffees to add another layer of sweetness and complexity.
How to Make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
Step 1: Whip Up the Cream Mixture
In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This step is crucial as it gives your dessert that light and airy texture we all love. Once you see those peaks, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and fluffy. It’s like creating little clouds of deliciousness!
Step 2: Prepare the Espresso Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine your cooled espresso with amaretto liqueur. This mixture will soak into the ladyfingers and infuse them with rich coffee flavor. Just make sure not to soak them too long—quick dips are key here!
Step 3: Layer Your Ingredients
Now comes the fun part! Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture—don’t let them linger too long! Line the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish with these dipped cookies. They should be moist but still hold their shape.
Step 4: Spread that Creamy Goodness
Once your ladyfingers are in place, spread half of your mascarpone cream mixture over them. The cream should blanket those cookies beautifully.
Step 5: Add Cherry Delights
Spoon half of your cherry preserves over the cream layer along with fresh cherry halves. The sweetness of the cherries pairs perfectly with the rich coffee flavors—it’s simply divine!
Step 6: Repeat for More Layers
Repeat those layers! Add another round of dipped ladyfingers followed by the remaining cream and cherry mixture. Each layer builds flavor and texture—a true delight!
Step 7: Chill Out
Cover your tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least six hours; overnight is even better! This chilling time allows all those delicious flavors to meld together.
Step 8: Finish with Flair
Just before serving, dust cocoa powder over the top for an elegant finish. Feel free to decorate with fresh cherries or sprinkle shaved chocolate or sliced almonds on top.
Step 9: Slice & Serve!
When you’re ready to serve, slice up this beautiful dessert and watch everyone dig in with smiles on their faces!
Enjoy sharing this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert with loved ones—it’s a treat that brings happiness in every bite!
Pro Tips for Making Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
Creating a Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu can be a rewarding experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dessert to perfection!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cherries and high-quality mascarpone will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture, resulting in a more decadent dessert.
- Be gentle with the ladyfingers: Dip them quickly in the espresso mixture to avoid sogginess. This ensures they maintain their structure while absorbing just enough coffee flavor.
- Chill overnight: Allowing the tiramisu to set overnight enhances the flavors and gives it the perfect creamy consistency. Patience is key!
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to swap out cherry preserves for other fruit options, like raspberry or strawberry, if you’re feeling adventurous. Each fruit brings its unique twist while still being delicious.
- Dust right before serving: To keep the cocoa powder looking fresh and appealing, dust it on just before serving. This will ensure your dessert looks as good as it tastes!
How to Serve Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
When it comes to serving your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, presentation is everything! Here are some ideas to impress your guests.
Garnishes
- Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and freshness that beautifully complements the rich flavors of the tiramisu.
- Shaved chocolate: A sprinkle of dark chocolate curls on top adds an elegant touch and enhances the dessert’s indulgence without overpowering it.
- Sliced almonds: Add crunchy sliced almonds for an appealing contrast in texture that complements the creamy layers.
Side Dishes
- Espresso or coffee: Serving a small cup of espresso alongside your tiramisu brings out the coffee notes in the dessert and provides a delightful after-dinner treat.
- Berry salad: A light berry salad with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offers a refreshing contrast to the rich tiramisu and cleanses the palate.
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with tiramisu, adding a creamy element that enhances each bite.
- Cheese platter: Consider serving a selection of mild cheeses to balance out the sweetness of the tiramisu—cheeses like Brie or mascarpone work particularly well.
With these tips for preparation and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create and enjoy your own Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat. Enjoy every luscious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy days.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days, though it tastes best within the first two days.
- Avoid covering it tightly with plastic wrap directly on the dessert to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing
- While freezing is not recommended for this dessert due to the cream texture, if you must, slice individual portions before freezing.
- Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Consume frozen portions within 1 month for the best quality.
Reheating
- There’s no need to reheat this dessert; it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge!
- If you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Here are a few common questions about making this delightful Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.
Can I make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert without amaretto?
Absolutely! You can replace amaretto with almond extract or simply use more espresso for a non-alcoholic version while still enjoying that lovely almond flavor.
How long does Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert need to chill?
For the best results, chill your Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the layers to set and enhances the flavors.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of preserves?
Yes! Fresh cherries can be used instead of cherry preserves. Just ensure they are pitted and halved so they incorporate nicely into your dessert.
What can I use as a substitute for mascarpone cheese?
If you don’t have mascarpone cheese on hand, you can blend cream cheese with a bit of heavy cream until smooth as a great alternative.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to create this delicious Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat! It’s perfect for celebrations or just a sweet way to brighten your day. Enjoy every creamy layer and share it with loved ones. Happy baking!
Cherry Tiramisu Dessert: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
Indulge in a delightful Cherry Tiramisu Dessert that transforms the classic Italian treat into a luscious and refreshing experience. This no-bake dessert layers coffee-dipped ladyfingers with creamy mascarpone, sweet cherry preserves, and a touch of almond flavor for an unforgettable taste. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this elegant dish is simple to prepare yet looks impressive enough to wow your guests. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, every bite is a celebration of indulgence. Serve it chilled for a delightful end to any meal!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- â…“ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups strong brewed espresso (cooled)
- 3 tbsp almond extract (or additional espresso)
- Ladyfinger cookies (about 7 oz)
- 1 ½ cups cherry preserves
- Fresh cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine cooled espresso with almond extract in a shallow bowl.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture and arrange them in a 9×9-inch dish.
- Spread half of the cream mixture over the ladyfingers, then layer half of the cherry preserves and fresh cherries.
- Repeat layering with remaining dipped ladyfingers, cream, and cherry mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least six hours or overnight.
- Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and garnish with fresh cherries or shaved chocolate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg