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Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu

Homemade Granola Cups with Chocolate & Strawberries Recipe

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4.4 from 27 reviews

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a showstopping Italian-inspired dessert featuring layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and juicy Amaretto-macerated cherries. With irresistible notes of cherry and almond, dusted with cocoa and chocolate, it’s a chic, make-ahead treat perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or special occasions.

Ingredients

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For the Cherries

  • 1 cup fresh or jarred cherries, pitted and halved or whole
  • 1/4 cup Amaretto liqueur
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Mascarpone Filling

  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Assembly

  • 16 ladyfingers
  • 1/2 cup brewed espresso, cooled
  • Cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Shaved dark chocolate (optional)

Instructions

  1. Macerate the Cherries: In a small bowl, combine the cherries with Amaretto liqueur and granulated sugar. Stir well and let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the cherries to soak up the sweet, almond-flavored liqueur and release their juices for a flavorful layer.
  2. Prepare the Mascarpone Cream: In a large mixing bowl, add the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and silky.
  3. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. This provides a light and airy texture to the filling.
  4. Combine the Fillings: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Use slow, gentle motions to keep the mousse light and fluffy.
  5. Layer the Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger, one at a time, into the cooled espresso. Line the bottom of a square or rectangular dish (about 8-inch) with the dipped ladyfingers. Avoid soaking too long or the ladyfingers may become soggy.
  6. Add the First Layer of Cream and Cherries: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Then, spoon half of the cherry mixture, along with some of its juices, over the cream. Let it slightly soak in.
  7. Repeat Layers: Dip the remaining ladyfingers in espresso and arrange on top of the cherry layer. Spread on the remaining mascarpone filling, and finish with the rest of the cherry mixture.
  8. Finish and Chill: Generously dust the top of the tiramisu with cocoa powder and, if desired, scatter with shaved dark chocolate for elegance and extra flavor. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

Notes

  • For best texture, use fresh cherries when in season, but high-quality jarred cherries work well too.
  • Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers—quick dips keep them from getting mushy.
  • Tiramisu can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
  • Swap Amaretto for almond extract (use 1/2 tsp) for a non-alcoholic option.
  • Top with slivered almonds for extra crunch and visual appeal.

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