This Easy Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a sweet delight! With layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, cherries, and a splash of amaretto, it’s a treat you won’t forget.
Making this dessert is a blast! Just layer everything together, let it chill, and you’re ready for a sweet party in your mouth. Perfect for impressing guests or just enjoying on your own! 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries bring a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have them, frozen cherries can work too—just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
Cherry Preserves: You can swap cherry preserves with raspberry or blackberry preserves if you want a different berry flavor. Both will add a nice touch!
Amaretto Liqueur: If you’re avoiding alcohol, consider using almond extract mixed with a little water or cherry juice for flavor without the buzz.
Mascarpone Cheese: This is crucial for the creamy texture. If you can’t find mascarpone, a blend of cream cheese and sour cream can serve as a substitute, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Ladyfinger Cookies: Traditional ladyfingers are ideal, but you can also use sponge cake cut into strips if you can’t find them.
How Do I Fold Ingredients Without Deflating My Mixture?
Folding is an essential technique when mixing whipped cream with mascarpone. This helps incorporate air without losing volume. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a spatula for gentle mixing. Start from the center of the bowl and scoop the mixture, lifting it from the bottom.
- Rotate the bowl as you fold to mix evenly. Do this until you see no more streaks of white.
- Be patient! Take your time and be careful, as overmixing can cause the mixture to deflate, leading to a denser tiramisu.
With these tips, you’ll create a deliciously smooth and delightful Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your time in the kitchen!
Easy Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cherry Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup cherry preserves or cherry jam
For the Coffee Mixture:
- 1 1/2 cups brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 3 tbsp amaretto liqueur
For the Tiramisu Layers:
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 16 oz (450g) mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dessert will take about 30 minutes to prepare, but don’t forget to let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. It’s worth the wait for those amazing flavors to meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cherry Sauce:
Start by gently heating the cherry preserves in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. After a minute or two, add half of the fresh pitted cherries and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they soften. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool down.
2. Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix your brewed coffee with the amaretto liqueur. This will be used to dip the ladyfingers and infuse them with delicious flavor!
3. Whip the Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the sugar and vanilla extract. Keep whipping until you see stiff peaks form, meaning the cream will hold its shape nicely.
4. Fold in the Mascarpone:
Now, gently fold the softened mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream. Use a spatula to mix it all together carefully so you keep the fluffy texture. The goal is a smooth and creamy filling!
5. Layer the Ladyfingers:
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee-amaretto mixture. Make sure to just dip them for a second or two so they don’t turn soggy. Arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of your serving dish.
6. Add the First Layer of Filling:
Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. You want a nice even layer covering them completely!
7. Add the Cherry Sauce:
Spoon half of the cherry sauce over the mascarpone layer, and sprinkle some whole cherries for a tasty surprise in every bite.
8. Repeat the Layers:
Now, go ahead and repeat the whole process! Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture, and finish up with the rest of the cherry sauce.
9. Chill the Dessert:
Cover your dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This time is crucial for the flavors to blend beautifully!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, dust the top of your tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder for some delightful bitterness that balances the sweetness. Garnish with a few fresh cherries on top for an extra pop!
Enjoy this luscious cherry and amaretto twist on classic tiramisu!
FAQ for Easy Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Dessert
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen cherries! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the dessert. They will still add a lovely flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Amaretto Liqueur?
If you want to omit the alcohol, you can substitute with almond extract mixed with a little water or cherry juice. It won’t have the same depth of flavor, but it will still taste delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness and moisture.
Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free ladyfinger cookies or substitute with gluten-free sponge cake. Just check the ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free!
Feel free to dive into this delightful dessert and make it your own! Enjoy! 🍒
