Sweet Cherries & Mascarpone are what make up this dessert. If you love classic Italian tiramisu and fresh summer cherries, this Cherry Tiramisu is the perfect dessert to make. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers are paired with a rich mascarpone cream, juicy cherry filling, and finished with a generous dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant no-bake dessert.

You may also like to try my Classic Tiramisu recipe

This easy twist on traditional tiramisu combines the bold flavor of espresso with sweet-tart cherries to create a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer entertaining, holidays, dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving something a little extra special.

Made completely ahead of time, Cherry Tiramisu tastes even better after chilling overnight, allowing the layers to soften into a creamy, bakery-style dessert that’s guaranteed to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Cherry Tiramisu

• No baking required.
• Rich mascarpone filling.
• Fresh homemade cherry layer.
• Classic Italian-inspired dessert.
• Perfect make-ahead recipe.
• Beautiful layers.
• Elegant enough for holidays.
• Easy to prepare.
• Great for summer cherry season.

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What Makes This Cherry Tiramisu Different?

Unlike traditional tiramisu, this version features a homemade cherry filling layered between the mascarpone cream and coffee-soaked ladyfingers. The cherries add a burst of freshness and a beautiful ruby-red layer that pairs perfectly with the rich espresso and creamy mascarpone.

Every bite offers the perfect balance of sweet cherries, velvety cream, bold coffee, and light cocoa.

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Ingredients

Cherry Filling

• 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mascarpone Cream

• 16 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup icing sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Coffee Layer

• 2 cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)

Assembly

• 1 package ladyfingers (Savoiardi)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Dark chocolate curls (optional)
• Fresh cherries for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cherry filling by cooking the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice until softened. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Cool completely.
2. Beat the mascarpone with the icing sugar and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the cream to stiff peaks and gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture.
3. Combine the cooled espresso with the coffee liqueur, if using.
4. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture and arrange a single layer in the bottom of a 9 × 13-inch clear glass dish.
5. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, followed by half of the cooled cherry filling.
6. Repeat the layers with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, the remaining mascarpone cream, and the remaining cherry filling.
7. Finish with a final layer of mascarpone cream, then dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
8. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cherry Tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, Cherry Tiramisu tastes even better after chilling overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for holidays and entertaining.

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Can I use frozen cherries?

Absolutely. Frozen cherries work wonderfully. Simply thaw and drain any excess liquid before making the filling.

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Do I have to use espresso?

No. Strong brewed coffee works just as well if you don’t have an espresso machine.

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Can I make Cherry Tiramisu without alcohol?

Yes. The coffee liqueur is completely optional and can be omitted without affecting the texture of the dessert.

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How long will Cherry Tiramisu keep?

Stored covered in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

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Can I freeze Cherry Tiramisu?

Yes. Freeze tightly wrapped for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.