A dessert that looks elegant, tastes indulgent, and takes no time to make? That’s the beauty of this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu. Layers of soft ladyfingers soak up cherry syrup and mascarpone cream, while rich cocoa and dark chocolate tie everything together. Each bite is creamy, fruity, and lightly chocolatey—a refreshing spin on the timeless tiramisu.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
This no-bake tiramisu is luxurious yet surprisingly easy to assemble.
- Fresh cherries bring a vibrant flavor twist
- Creamy mascarpone makes every bite smooth and rich
- Light, airy texture from whipped cream
- No baking required—just layer and chill
- Perfect for make-ahead entertaining
- Elegant presentation with minimal effort
This recipe reminds me of my mom’s truck stop desserts—always simple, always full of flavor. I swapped her coffee version for cherries during a summer gathering, and the balance of sweet fruit and rich cream was such a hit it became a new family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dessert is all about layers—each one bringing its own texture and flavor.
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups mascarpone cheese – the creamy foundation of any tiramisu
- 1 cup heavy cream – whipped to airy perfection
- ½ cup amaretto liqueur – adds almond sweetness (use almond extract + milk for a no-alcohol version)
- ½ cup cherry juice – bright, fruity flavor for soaking
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped – juicy bursts in every bite
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – balances tang and creaminess
- 2 tablespoons cherry preserves – intensifies color and sweetness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – warmth and aroma
- 1 package ladyfingers – the classic base for layering
- ¼ cup cocoa powder – dusting for that Italian finish
- ¼ cup dark chocolate, shaved or grated – adds richness and contrast
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Replace amaretto with almond extract mixed with milk for a non-alcoholic option
- Swap cherries with raspberries for a tart twist
- Add lemon zest for a touch of freshness
- Use coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free topping
- Sprinkle toasted almonds on top for texture
- Add a swirl of cherry compote between layers for more color and depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
This dessert’s success comes from restraint—don’t over-soak the ladyfingers, and let time do its job in the fridge.
- Prepare the Cherry Mixture
In a small bowl, mix cherry juice, cherry preserves, and half the amaretto (or almond milk mixture). Stir well and set aside. - Whip the Cream
In a large bowl, beat heavy cream and sugar until soft peaks form. Add vanilla extract and fold in mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. (It should feel rich but airy.) - Build the Layers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cherry mixture for 1–2 seconds per side. Arrange a layer in the bottom of a square dish and spread half the mascarpone cream on top. - Add Cherries and Repeat
Scatter half the chopped cherries over the cream. Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone, and cherries. - Finish and Chill
Dust with cocoa powder and top with shaved dark chocolate. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Quick Reminders:
- Don’t soak ladyfingers too long—they should stay slightly firm.
- Use chilled mascarpone for a thick, stable texture.
- Let it rest overnight for the richest flavor.
- Always dust cocoa right before serving for freshness.
Expert Tips for Success
This dessert is all about balance—sweet cherries, creamy filling, and a hint of cocoa.
- Whip the cream until just soft peaks form; overmixing makes it grainy.
- Taste the cherry mix before dipping—adjust sweetness as needed.
- Use premium cocoa and dark chocolate for depth.
- Chill overnight for the most cohesive flavor and texture.
- Serve it cold for the smoothest, most luxurious bite.
If you love indulgent no-bake desserts, try my No-Bake Blueberry Chia Seed Pie, Raspberry Pistachio Mousse Cakes, or French Chocolate Flan. Each one brings a unique twist on creamy, fruity perfection.
Serving Suggestions
This tiramisu makes any occasion feel special.
- Serve in glass cups for elegant single portions
- Garnish with fresh cherries and mint leaves
- Pair with espresso or a light herbal tea
- Add a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce for presentation
- Enjoy after a light dinner or as a summer centerpiece
- Top with whipped cream and lemon zest for brightness
The color and contrast make it just as beautiful as it is delicious.
Storing and Reheating
No heating required—just chill and enjoy.
How to Store It
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Keep in an airtight container to prevent drying
- Avoid freezing; it changes the cream texture
- Add cocoa topping only before serving
- Refrigerate leftovers immediately after serving
How to Reheat It
- This dessert is best served chilled
- If it’s too cold, let rest 5–10 minutes at room temperature before serving
- Avoid microwaving—it ruins the cream structure
Even after a few days, the layers stay moist and flavorful without losing texture.
Nutrition Information
- Serves: 8
- Calories: 425
- Total Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Sugar: 24 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Calcium: 9% DV
- Iron: 6% DV
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely. Thaw and drain them before layering to avoid excess liquid.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use vegan mascarpone and coconut cream—it’s just as rich and creamy.
How long should it chill before serving?
At least 4 hours, but overnight gives the best flavor and structure.
Final Thoughts
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu proves you don’t need an oven for an elegant dessert. It’s smooth, fruity, and layered with care—each bite a balance of cream, chocolate, and cherries. Whether for a gathering or a quiet evening, this tiramisu feels like a sweet little celebration.
- Chill it long enough for flavor harmony
- Use quality ingredients for depth
- Serve with love—it’s the secret ingredient every time
Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mix cherry juice, cherry preserves, and half the amaretto or almond-milk mix. Stir well and set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat heavy cream and sugar until soft peaks form. Add vanilla extract and fold in mascarpone until smooth and creamy.
- Quickly dip ladyfingers into the cherry mixture (1–2 seconds per side) and arrange a layer in a square dish. Spread half the mascarpone cream on top.
- Scatter half the chopped cherries over the cream. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cherries.
- Dust with cocoa powder and top with shaved dark chocolate. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Times estimated from method defaults due to partially missing explicit durations. Cream whip ~5 min, cherry mix cook ~0, chill time ~240 min. Cook time set as 0 since no heating occurs in steps.
