Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu – A Cozy, Elegant Twist on a Classic Italian Dessert

Hello friends, Chef James here, welcoming you back into my kitchen at Tiramisucake.com. Today, I’m sharing a dessert that feels indulgent, romantic, and perfect for slower evenings: Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. This recipe takes everything we love about traditional tiramisu and adds a bold cherry layer with the warm almond notes of amaretto for a dessert that’s both familiar and exciting.

I created this version after years of making the Classic Tiramisu Recipe for family gatherings. While the classic will always have my heart, I wanted something a little more playful—something that felt festive, cozy, and just right for winter nights. Cherries and amaretto bring that perfect balance of sweetness and depth without overpowering the creamy mascarpone layers.

This dessert fits beautifully into our tiramisu family, alongside favorites like Easy Tiramisu Dessert and celebratory options such as Homemade Tiramisu Cake. If you love coffee-soaked desserts with a twist, this one deserves a spot on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

• A sophisticated cherry-almond flavor combination
• Creamy, layered texture with no baking required
• Perfect make-ahead dessert for dinner parties
• Elegant yet approachable for home cooks
• Ideal for cozy evenings and special occasions

Do you prefer classic tiramisu flavors, or do you enjoy creative twists like this one?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays an important role in creating balanced layers:

• Mascarpone cheese (16 oz) – Rich, creamy base
• Heavy cream (1 cup) – Lightens the mascarpone layer
• Granulated sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the cream
• Ladyfinger cookies (7–8 oz) – Structure and texture
• Strong brewed coffee (1 cup, cooled) – Classic tiramisu element
• Amaretto liqueur (¼ cup) – Almond warmth and depth
• Cherry preserves (¾ cup) – Sweet-tart fruit layer
• Cocoa powder (for dusting) – Finishing touch
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – Flavor balance

Chef James tip: Use high-quality cherry preserves with whole fruit pieces for the best texture.

How to Make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

1. Brew the coffee and let it cool completely. Stir in the amaretto and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
3. In another bowl, mix mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
5. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture—do not soak.
6. Arrange a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a dish.
7. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the cookies.
8. Spoon cherry preserves evenly over the cream.
9. Repeat the layers, finishing with mascarpone cream on top.
10. Dust generously with cocoa powder.
11. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.

Extra tip from Chef James: Overnight chilling allows the flavors to fully marry and gives the cleanest slices.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• More coffee-forward: Explore similar inspiration from Coffee Dessert Recipes
• Italian-style finish: Serve after a slice of Italian Tiramisu Cake for a full dessert spread
• Chocolate lovers: Pair with rich cherry treats like Chocolate Cherry Lush
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free ladyfingers

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
• Do not freeze (texture will change)
• Best served chilled straight from the fridge

This makes it ideal for hosting—prepare it the day before and relax.

FAQs About Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Does this dessert contain alcohol?
Yes, from the amaretto, but it can be omitted.

Can I replace amaretto?
Almond extract mixed with coffee works as a substitute.

Is this very sweet?
No, the cherries add brightness that balances the cream.

Can I use fresh cherries?
Yes, but cook them down into a compote first.

Is this good for winter gatherings?
Absolutely—it’s a perfect Cozy Winter Dessert.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger dish and chill longer.

What to Serve With Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

This tiramisu pairs beautifully with chocolate-forward desserts like Flourless Chocolate Cherry Cake or elegant bite-sized treats such as Dark Chocolate Cherry Cups. For a Southern-inspired dessert table, you can even add something comforting from our Southern Dessert Recipe collection.

Final Thoughts from Chef James

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is one of those desserts that feels luxurious without being complicated. It respects the heart of traditional tiramisu while offering a bold, fruity twist that feels perfect for colder months and special evenings. Whether you’re already a fan of the Classic Tiramisu Recipe or trying tiramisu variations for the first time, this version is sure to impress.

As always, follow basic food safety guidance from the USDA at https://www.fsis.usda.gov/, and feel free to explore inspiration from trusted culinary sources like Serious Eats and Food Network. Try it, chill it overnight, and let me know how it turns out. Happy layering 🍒☕

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