Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu – A baJillian Recipes Inspired Delight

If you’re searching for the ultimate no-bake summer dessert, look no further than the indulgent Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu, a recipe made famous by A baJillian Recipes. This dessert brings together the bold flavors of ripe cherries and almond liqueur layered between soft ladyfingers and a fluffy mascarpone filling. It’s a delicious twist on the classic Italian tiramisu and has all the makings of a show-stopping treat.

Beyond being gorgeously vibrant with its cherry-streaked layers, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser thanks to its simple preparation and dramatic presentation. Whether you’re preparing for a summer picnic, a Fourth of July party, or simply a Tuesday treat-yourself moment, this Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is a must-try.

To fully appreciate this dessert, you need to understand the components that make it so exceptional. The star ingredient is mascarpone cheese, known for its silky texture and subtle sweetness. If you’re unfamiliar with mascarpone, you can learn more about what makes it special and why it’s irreplaceable in recipes like tiramisu.

Another key player is Amaretto liqueur, an almond-flavored Italian spirit that enhances the flavor of the cherries beautifully. Not all almond liqueurs are created equal, though, and using a well-balanced one like Disaronno elevates the final result. Here’s a helpful guide on what Amaretto is and how it’s used in desserts.

What Makes Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu Unique?

• Fresh summer cherries bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Amaretto liqueur adds a subtle almond note that complements the fruit perfectly.
• The dessert is no-bake and make-ahead friendly, ideal for entertaining.
• Layers of mascarpone cream and syrup-soaked ladyfingers create a textural contrast that’s both light and luscious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this layered masterpiece, gather the following:

For the Cherry Syrup

• 4 cups fresh Bing or Lambert cherries, pitted and halved
• ⅓ cup water
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2–4 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur (adjust to taste)

For the Mascarpone Filling

• 16 ounces mascarpone cheese
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• ⅔ cup prepared cherry syrup

For Assembly

• 1 (7 oz) package of Savoiardi (ladyfinger) cookies
• Optional: extra whipped cream for topping or piping

How to Choose the Right Cherries

For maximum flavor and vibrant color, use ripe, dark red cherries. Here’s how to pick the best cherries for desserts:

• Bing cherries – classic, sweet, and richly colored
• Chelan or Lapin cherries – firm and slightly tart
• Avoid Rainier for this recipe; while sweet, they lack the bold red color needed

Step-by-Step cherry amaretto tiramisu

1. Make the Cherry Syrup

• In a saucepan, combine cherries and water over medium heat.
• Mash with a fork or potato masher to release juices.
• Simmer until cherries break down.
• Strain to remove solids.
• Stir in sugar and lemon juice.
• Let cool, then add Amaretto liqueur to taste.

2. Prepare the Mascarpone Filling

• Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks; set aside.
• Beat mascarpone, sugar, vanilla, almond extract, and cherry syrup until smooth.
• Fold in whipped cream gently to create a light, fluffy texture.

3. Assemble the cherry amaretto tiramisu

• Dip ladyfingers quickly into cherry syrup and line the bottom of your dish.
• Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers.
• Add another layer of syrup-dipped ladyfingers.
• Finish with the remaining filling or pipe decoratively on top.

4. Chill and Serve

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
• Serve cold with extra cherries or whipped cream if desired.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to customize this dessert? Try the following:

• Use frozen cherries if fresh aren’t available—just thaw and drain first.
• Substitute Amaretto with cherry brandy or almond extract for a non-alcoholic version.
• Swap mascarpone for cream cheese for a tangier twist (though texture will vary).
• Add chocolate shavings or slivered almonds on top for extra texture.

Why This Dessert Works

This version of tiramisu is brilliant because it blends familiar dessert layers with seasonal ingredients and a touch of liqueur. It’s approachable even for novice bakers, doesn’t require an oven, and stores beautifully. The cherry and almond pairing is classic, and the airy mascarpone filling ensures the dish never feels too heavy.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
• Keeps fresh for up to 4 days.
• Not ideal for freezing due to the whipped cream and mascarpone mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make tiramisu without alcohol?
Yes! Just skip the Amaretto and add extra almond extract or use cherry juice.

Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely. Make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess water in the syrup.

How long does it last in the fridge?
This tiramisu will keep well for up to 4 days when covered and refrigerated.

Can I substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?
You can, but the flavor and texture will differ. Mascarpone is smoother and more neutral in taste.

Is Amaretto gluten-free?
Most Amaretto brands like Disaronno are gluten-free, but always check the label to be safe.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu is everything a summer dessert should be: light, flavorful, and stunning on the plate. Thanks to the creative twist from A baJillian Recipes, this treat will make any table feel festive and unforgettable. It’s the perfect fusion of traditional Italian indulgence with a seasonal American flair.

Let this become your go-to no-bake dessert for the summer—your guests will thank you.

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