Cherry Almond Tiramisu Recipe

If you adore classic tiramisu but want something with a bold, fruity twist, Cherry Almond Tiramisu is about to win your heart. Sweet-tart cherry compote mingles with luscious mascarpone, pillowy lady fingers, and the unmistakable aroma of almond liqueur in every dreamy bite—this make-ahead dessert is pure romance in a pan!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These essential ingredients are the secret to Cherry Almond Tiramisu’s dazzling flavor and gorgeous layers. Each one plays a role in building the color, luscious texture, and memorable taste—so don’t skip a thing!

• Sweet cherries: Fresh or frozen pitted cherries bring bursts of juicy tartness and a stunning pink hue to every bite.
• Granulated sugar: Used in both the cherry compote and to sweeten the lady finger soak and mascarpone cream, it balances out the tang and keeps things just sweet enough.
• Cornstarch: Just a little thickens the cherry juice, turning it into a luscious compote that won’t sog up the layers.
• Amaretto: This almond liqueur adds depth and irresistible aroma—feel free to adjust the amount if you want it boozier or more gentle.
• Lady fingers: The backbone of any tiramisu, they turn soft and cake-like as they soak up the almond syrup and cherry juices.
• Mascarpone cheese: This creamy Italian cheese gives that signature rich, silky filling—be sure it’s cold for the fluffiest results.
• Egg yolks: Essential for richness and structure, adding that classic tiramisu decadence.
• Heavy whipping cream: Used in both the mascarpone mixture and the optional whipped cream topping, it makes every layer extra dreamy and light.
• Vanilla paste or extract: Just a teaspoon rounds out all the other flavors—you’ll taste the difference!
• Powdered sugar: Essential if you opt for that swoon-worthy whipped cream swirl on top.
• Freeze-dried cherries or cocoa powder (optional): For a dramatic, bakery-worthy finishing touch—totally optional but totally fun.

Variations

The beauty of Cherry Almond Tiramisu is how inviting it is to make your own. Whether you’re working around allergies, using what’s in your pantry, or just aiming to put your stamp on dessert, here’s how to effortlessly riff on the original.

• Berry Swap: Use raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of berries in place of cherries for a different seasonal flavor profile.
• Alcohol-Free Option: Skip the Amaretto and try almond extract with extra water or cherry juice for a totally family-friendly tiramisu.
• Chocolate Twist: Add a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings between layers or dust cocoa powder over the top for extra decadence.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free lady fingers to make Cherry Almond Tiramisu completely gluten-free without sacrificing any charm.

How to Make Cherry Almond Tiramisu

Step 1: Simmer the Cherry Compote

Start by pitting and roughly chopping those gorgeous sweet cherries. Toss them in a saucepan with sugar and let them bubble gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened but still bursting with texture. Don’t rush—this is where the flavor magic happens! Mix together cornstarch and water, stir it into the cherries, and watch your compote thicken to glossy perfection. Then pop the whole mixture in the fridge to cool while you prep the other layers.

Step 2: Create the Amaretto Syrup

While cherries are cooling, it’s time for that unmistakable almond aroma. Dissolve sugar in water over gentle heat and let it cool, then stir in the Amaretto. This is the secret soak that transforms lady fingers from crunchy to unbelievably soft and flavorful—it’s quick, easy, and absolutely essential.

Step 3: Whip Up the Mascarpone Cream

Grab your stand mixer or hand mixer and combine cold mascarpone, sugar, egg yolks, heavy cream, and vanilla. Beat it all up until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and cloudlike—about 2-3 minutes. This creamy component will create those velvety layers you crave in any tiramisu, but with a cherry-almond twist.

Step 4: Layer and Assemble

Dip and quickly roll lady fingers in the Amaretto syrup and line them along the bottom of your loaf pan. Add half of your glossy cherry mixture and spread evenly. Next goes half the fluffy mascarpone, smoothed all the way to the edges. Repeat these layers—lady fingers, cherries, mascarpone—then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. This patience pays off; the flavors meld, and every layer becomes pillowy and luscious.

Step 5: Whipped Cream & Final Flourish

For an extra layer of luxury, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until it’s light and swoopy. Spread or pipe it gently over your chilled Cherry Almond Tiramisu just before serving. Top with a dusting of freeze-dried cherry powder or a dramatic swoosh of cocoa powder if you want bakery vibes at home!

How to Serve Cherry Almond Tiramisu

Garnishes

For a dessert this stunning, you’ll want to play up its charms! Swirl on whipped cream, dust with vivid cherry powder or cocoa, and scatter a few whole cherries or toasted sliced almonds for extra flair. Each garnish adds another layer of texture and makes the Cherry Almond Tiramisu worthy of any celebration.

Side Dishes

Serve Cherry Almond Tiramisu solo for a showstopping finish, or pair with espresso, after-dinner drinks, or even a glass of Prosecco for a truly Italian touch. For brunch, a tart lemony fruit salad alongside is bright and balancing.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer individual servings in pretty glass jars or wine glasses for a personal touch at parties. Or, make a big splash by building the tiramisu in a clear trifle bowl—those colorful stripes are totally irresistible! Cutting into neat slices from a loaf pan also gives you gorgeous, café-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cherry Almond Tiramisu keeps beautifully in the fridge, covered tightly, for up to 3 days. The flavors mellow and deepen—even the second-day slices are a revelation!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the assembled tiramisu (without whipped cream topping) tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh whipped cream and garnishes before serving for best results.

Reheating

This dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold! Simply thaw in the fridge if frozen—there’s no need (and no benefit) to reheating. Cherry Almond Tiramisu will be creamy and delicious straight from the chill.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a swoon-worthy, colorful spin on the classic Italian favorite, this Cherry Almond Tiramisu is it. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy, one memorable (and very pink!) slice at a time.

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