why make this recipe
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. This version combines the richness of mascarpone cheese with the sweet and tart flavors of cherries and the warm notes of amaretto liqueur. It’s perfect for special occasions or any time you want to impress your family and friends. The layers of creamy mascarpone and soaked ladyfingers create a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is simply irresistible.
how to make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Ingredients :
- 1 pound fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup amaretto liqueur
- 1 cup cherry juice
- 16 to 18 ladyfinger cookies
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder or grated dark chocolate, for topping
Directions :
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, and half of the amaretto. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the cherries are soft and their juices are released. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Stir in the remaining amaretto and cherry juice.
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In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, mix the mascarpone with the vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until it is fully combined and fluffy.
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Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cherry-amaretto mixture, making sure not to oversoak. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups.
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Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the ladyfingers. Spoon half of the cherry mixture on top, then repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
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Before serving, dust with cocoa powder or sprinkle with grated dark chocolate for a finishing touch.
how to serve Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
You can serve Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in individual cups for a more elegant presentation or in a large dish for a family-style dessert. It’s best enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator. The dusting of cocoa or dark chocolate adds a nice visual touch and a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the dessert.
how to store Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Store any leftovers of Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
tips to make Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
- If you want a non-alcoholic version, you can replace the amaretto with almond extract or additional cherry juice.
- Make sure to not soak the ladyfingers for too long. A quick dip is enough to keep them from getting soggy.
- For added texture, consider adding chopped nuts or a layer of crushed cookies in between the mascarpone layers.
variation
You can add other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a mixed berry tiramisu. Also, try using different liqueurs like coffee liqueur or Irish cream for a unique flavor twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
A: Yes! Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu actually tastes better when made a day in advance, as the flavors have more time to blend.
Q: What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?
A: If you can’t find mascarpone, you can use cream cheese mixed with a bit of sour cream or heavy cream to replicate the texture.
Q: Is this dessert gluten-free?
A: No, traditional ladyfingers contain gluten. You would need to find gluten-free ladyfingers or make a suitable alternative, such as using gluten-free cake layers.
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Ingredients
For the Cherry Mixture
- 1 pound fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup amaretto liqueur Use additional cherry juice for non-alcoholic version.
- 1 cup cherry juice
For the Cream Mixture
- 16 to 18 pieces ladyfinger cookies Ensure quick dips to prevent sogginess.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened Can be substituted with cream cheese mixed with sour cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving
- Cocoa powder or grated dark chocolate, for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Cherry Mixture
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, and half of the amaretto.
- Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the cherries are soft and their juices are released.
- Remove from heat and cool slightly. Stir in the remaining amaretto and cherry juice.
Prepare the Cream Mixture
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mascarpone with the vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until it is fully combined and fluffy.
Assemble the Tiramisu
- Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cherry-amaretto mixture, ensuring not to oversoak.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Spoon half of the cherry mixture on top, then repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Set and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Before serving, dust with cocoa powder or sprinkle with grated dark chocolate.
