Description
There’s something undeniably special about tiramisu. It’s a dessert that feels elegant yet comforting, sophisticated yet simple to make at home. While the classic version, with its layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, is already a masterpiece, adding cherries takes it to a whole new level.
This Cherry Tiramisu combines the rich, creamy layers of traditional tiramisu with the bright, fruity notes of cherries, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re making this for a special occasion, a holiday gathering, or just because you deserve a treat, this version of tiramisu is sure to impress.
The best part? It’s a no-bake dessert, which means you can whip it up without turning on the oven. Perfect for summer when cherries are in season, but just as delicious year-round with frozen or jarred cherries.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherries, pitted and halved (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry juice
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package ladyfingers
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, cherry juice, and sugar. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries soften and the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in the almond extract. Let the mixture cool completely before using.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream
In a large mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined. This creates the light, airy texture that makes tiramisu so irresistible.
Step 3: Soak the Ladyfingers
One by one, dip each ladyfinger into the cooled cherry mixture, ensuring they are coated but not overly soggy. Lay them in a single layer at the bottom of a serving dish or baking pan.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the soaked ladyfingers. Then, add a layer of the cooked cherries, distributing them evenly. Repeat the process with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften into a cake-like texture. Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings for a beautiful finishing touch.
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger cherry flavor, you can reduce the cherry juice slightly to concentrate the taste.
- This tiramisu keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.