Name: Classic Cherry Tiramisu
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) fresh cherries, pitted (or 3 cups frozen, thawed); 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/4 cup cherry liqueur (or cherry juice); 2 cups mascarpone cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 package ladyfingers (approximately 24 pieces); Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting; Special Tools:; Hand or stand mixer; 8x8-inch baking dish or similar-sized dish; Sieve or sifter for cocoa powder

Classic Cherry Tiramisu

There’s something undeniably comforting about a dessert that brings everyone to the table with wide smiles and eager forks in hand. This Classic Cherry Tiramisu is one of those magical recipes in my household. It’s the perfect blend of creamy mascarpone, delicate ladyfingers, and the burst of sweet-tart cherries that take it to the next level. I first made this dessert on a whim when I found myself with an abundance of ripe cherries after a family trip to the farmer’s market.

What I love most about this recipe is how beautifully it balances elegance and simplicity. It looks stunning on the table, like you’ve spent hours crafting it, but it’s surprisingly quick to prepare—a true lifesaver for busy moms like me! The cherries add a fresh twist to the classic tiramisu, making it feel special yet approachable. My kids can’t get enough of the layers of soft ladyfingers soaked in cherry syrup and creamy mascarpone. Even my husband, who isn’t typically a dessert person, goes back for seconds.

The first time I served this, the kitchen turned into a chorus of “Wow, Mom!” and “Can I have more?” moments. It has since become a go-to for celebrations, potlucks, and even casual family dinners. Every bite feels like a little celebration. Trust me, this is the recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully if fresh cherries aren’t in season. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use.

Do I have to use mascarpone cheese?
While mascarpone is traditional, cream cheese can be used as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly tangier but still delicious.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it’s even better when made the night before, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What if I don’t have cherry liqueur?
You can use cherry juice or a mix of cherry syrup and a splash of rum or brandy for a non-alcoholic option.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free ladyfingers, and you’re good to go.

What You Need to Make Classic Cherry Tiramisu

Ingredients:

1 pound (450g) fresh cherries, pitted (or 3 cups frozen, thawed)

2 tablespoons sugar

1/4 cup cherry liqueur (or cherry juice)

2 cups mascarpone cheese

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 package ladyfingers (approximately 24 pieces)

Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Special Tools:

Hand or stand mixer

8×8-inch baking dish or similar-sized dish

Sieve or sifter for cocoa powder

How to Make Classic Cherry Tiramisu

Prepare the Cherry Mixture: Combine the cherries, sugar, and cherry liqueur in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to release the juices.

Make the Mascarpone Filling: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.

Layer the Tiramisu: Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cherry juice from the bowl. Line the bottom of your dish with a single layer of dipped ladyfingers. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, then add a layer of cherries. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with mascarpone on top.

Chill and Serve: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Just before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder and garnish with fresh cherries.

Tips for Making the Best Classic Cherry Tiramisu

Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers. A quick dip ensures they stay soft but don’t fall apart.

For extra cherry flavor, reduce the cherry juice on the stovetop for a few minutes to concentrate the flavor before using it for soaking.

Experiment with garnishes. Add dark chocolate shavings or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.

Use high-quality mascarpone and fresh cherries for the best results.

Let it rest! The longer this dessert chills, the better the flavors meld together.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This dessert was a hit at our family gathering! My sister already asked for the recipe. So easy to make, yet so impressive.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I substituted cream cheese for mascarpone, and it turned out amazing. Everyone loved it!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I loved the recipe, but next time I’ll add a bit more cherry liqueur for a stronger flavor.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect dessert for summer! My kids devoured it and even asked for seconds.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Delicious, but my ladyfingers got too soggy. I’ll dip them more quickly next time.”

Printable Recipe

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