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Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu – Luscious, Layered & Infused With Sweet Almond-Cherry Bliss

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a stunning twist on the classic Italian dessert, layered with delicate ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and juicy cherries with a hint of almond flavor. This version is completely alcohol-free, using amaretto-style almond syrup or extract to capture that signature nutty aroma without any alcohol. Elegant, rich, and beautifully balanced, it’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for special occasions or dinner parties.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 Servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cherry Layer
  • 2 cups pitted cherries fresh or frozen
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp almond extract amaretto-style, alcohol-free
For the Mascarpone Cream
  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream cold
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Soaking the Ladyfingers
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso cooled
  • 1 –2 tsp almond syrup or almond extract alcohol-free
For Assembly
  • 20 –24 ladyfinger biscuits
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
  • Dark chocolate shavings optional

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • 8×8-inch or similar serving dish
  • Fine sieve (optional, for cocoa)

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Compote
  1. In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice.
  2. Cook over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, stirring gently, until cherries soften and release juices.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in almond extract.
  4. Let cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream
  1. In a bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
  2. In another bowl, whisk mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Soak
  1. In a shallow bowl, mix cooled coffee with almond syrup or almond extract.
  2. Stir well.
Step 4: Assemble the First Layer
  1. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (do not soak).
  2. Arrange a layer in the bottom of the dish.
Step 5: Add Cream & Cherries
  1. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
  2. Spoon half of the cherry compote evenly on top.
Step 6: Repeat the Layers
  1. Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers.
  2. Top with remaining mascarpone cream and cherries.
Step 7: Chill & Finish
  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as texture may change.
Serve chilled.
🥄 Variations
Chocolate Cherry Tiramisu: Add a thin layer of melted dark chocolate.
Berry Almond Tiramisu: Replace cherries with mixed berries.
No-Coffee Version: Use milk with almond syrup instead.
Extra Almond Flavor: Add almond slivers between layers.
Individual Cups: Assemble in small glasses for elegant serving.
❓ 10 FAQs
Is there any alcohol in this recipe?
No, it’s completely alcohol-free.
What replaces amaretto?
Almond extract or almond syrup.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, they work perfectly.
Is mascarpone necessary?
Yes, for authentic tiramisu texture.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely—best made the day before.
Is this very sweet?
Balanced and not overly sweet.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, it’s kid-friendly.
Do I need espresso?
Strong coffee works fine.
Why not over-soak ladyfingers?
They’ll become soggy.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger dish.
🏁 Conclusion
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is rich, creamy, and irresistibly elegant—bringing together almond-scented cherries and classic tiramisu layers in a completely alcohol-free dessert. Perfect for celebrations or whenever you want a show-stopping treat, this recipe proves indulgence doesn’t need alcohol to shine.