A light and airy no-bake dessert featuring layers of Amaretto-spiked ladyfingers and fluffy cherry-infused mascarpone cream. This tiramisu offers a vibrant twist on the classic Italian dessert by highlighting fresh cherries and almond-flavoured liqueur for a sophisticated yet crowd-pleasing finale to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cherry Season Celebration: Showcases ripe, juicy cherries in a bright syrup that perfectly complements the richness of mascarpone.
Effortless No-Bake Preparation: Simple steps come together quickly, with most of the work happening in the refrigerator.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Best when chilled for at least six hours or overnight, freeing up your time on the day of your event.
Customizable Alcohol Level: Adjust the amount of Amaretto or omit it entirely for a family-friendly version without sacrificing flavour.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cherry Syrup

4 cups pitted and halved fresh red cherries (about 22 ounces)
⅓ cup water
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons lemon juice
2–4 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur

Mascarpone Filling

1½ cups heavy cream
16 ounces mascarpone cheese
¾ cup granulated sugar
⅔ cup reserved cherry syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract

For Assembly

1 (7 oz) package Savoiardi ladyfingers (about 24)

Directions

Make the Cherry Syrup
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine cherries and water. Using a potato masher or fork, crush the cherries to release their juices. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a glass measuring cup, pressing solids to extract as much juice as possible; discard the solids. Return the juice to the pan, add sugar and lemon juice, bring to a boil, then simmer 2 minutes. Remove from heat and chill until completely cool.
Prepare the Mascarpone Filling
In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks; transfer to a separate bowl. Replace with the paddle attachment and add mascarpone, sugar, cooled cherry syrup, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat on medium-high until smooth. Fold in one-third of the whipped cream by hand, then gently incorporate the remaining whipped cream until light and fluffy.
Assemble the Tiramisu
Add 2 tablespoons of Amaretto to the reserved cherry syrup, taste, and adjust up to 4 tablespoons. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the syrup (1–2 seconds per side) without letting them become soggy. Arrange a single layer in an 8-inch square dish. Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers. Top with a second layer of soaked ladyfingers, then spread half of the remaining filling. Transfer the final filling to a pastry bag fitted with a round tip (or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped) and pipe it evenly over the top for an elegant finish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 9
Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours (minimum)
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Alcohol-Free Version: Omit the Amaretto; the cherry syrup alone provides ample flavour.
Chocolate Cherry Twist: Drizzle melted dark chocolate between layers or sprinkle shaved chocolate on top.
Mixed Berry Amaretto: Replace half of the cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a seasonal berry medley.
Coffee-Amaretto Fusion: Dip ladyfingers briefly in espresso spiked with Amaretto before layering.
Mini Trifles: Assemble in individual glasses or jars for single-serve presentations.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store tightly covered for up to 4 days; flavours deepen over time.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month in an airtight container; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: Best enjoyed cold; reheating is not recommended as it will compromise texture and creaminess.

FAQs

How do I choose the best cherries for this recipe?

Use ripe, sweet red cherries such as Bing, Lambert, Chelan, or Lapin for optimal colour and flavour. Avoid Rainier cherries as they are too pale and won’t yield a vibrant syrup.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes. It benefits from chilling for at least 6 hours or overnight, making it ideal for preparing a day in advance.

What can I use if mascarpone cheese is unavailable?

Substitute with an equal mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream (3 parts cream cheese to 1 part heavy cream), though the flavour will be slightly tangier.

Is it necessary to strain the cherry solids?

Yes. Straining ensures a smooth syrup that won’t add unwanted texture to the dessert.

How do I prevent ladyfingers from becoming too soggy?

Dip them quickly—about 1 to 2 seconds per side—to absorb flavour without collapsing.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Thaw and drain excess liquid before proceeding; the flavour may be slightly less vibrant, so consider adding a teaspoon of cherry liqueur.

What liqueurs pair well besides Amaretto?

Kirsch, Frangelico, or a mild brandy can complement the cherry flavour nicely.

How should I serve this tiramisu?

Serve well-chilled straight from the refrigerator; allow 5 minutes at room temperature for easier slicing.

Can I halve or double the recipe?

Yes. Maintain the same ratios and layer proportions, adjusting the dish size accordingly.

How do I add a decorative finish?

Dust with unsweetened cocoa powder, garnish with fresh cherries, or shave dark chocolate over the top for a polished look.

Conclusion

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu transforms a beloved classic into a summer-friendly dessert, marrying the bright sweetness of cherries with the almond notes of Amaretto in a delightfully creamy, no-bake format. Its make-ahead nature and customizable elements make it a versatile choice for both casual gatherings and celebratory feasts. Enjoy this elegant creation and delight your guests with every luscious, cherry-infused bite.

Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu