Cherries Jubilee Tiramisu is a delightful reinvention of two classic desserts—Cherries Jubilee and traditional tiramisu—brought together in a harmony of fruit, cream, and rich coffee flavor. This luscious, layered treat takes the best of both worlds: the vibrant, sweet-tart juiciness of cherries flambéed in liqueur and the soft, creamy richness of mascarpone and whipped cream traditionally found in tiramisu. The result is a showstopping dessert that’s both visually appealing and indulgently satisfying. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply craving something decadent, this recipe delivers elegance without the hassle of complicated techniques or obscure ingredients.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) dark sweet cherries in heavy syrup

• 1/4 cup cherry liqueur (or use syrup from the canned cherries if preferred)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger cookies

• 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled

• Fresh cherries and shaved chocolate, for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Drain the canned cherries and reserve the syrup.

• In a saucepan, mix the reserved syrup with granulated sugar and cornstarch.

• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.

• Add the cherries and almond extract, cook for an additional 2 minutes, then set aside to cool.

• In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

• In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone cheese and vanilla until smooth.

• Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.

• Quickly dip ladyfingers into the cooled coffee and arrange a single layer in a serving dish.

• Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.

• Spoon half of the cherry mixture over the cream.

• Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, remaining mascarpone, and cherries.

• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for best flavor and texture.

• Garnish with fresh cherries and shaved chocolate before serving, if desired.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugars: 18g

• Calcium: 6% DV

• Iron: 4% DV

• Vitamin C: 2% DV

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Cherries Jubilee Tiramisu stands out because of its innovative blend of two cherished desserts, resulting in a layered experience of both visual and flavor delight. Most people are familiar with tiramisu’s classic coffee and cocoa notes or the flambéed cherries often associated with elegant restaurants. This recipe merges them into something entirely new yet familiar. It maintains the soft, spongy texture of soaked ladyfingers while replacing the usual cocoa dusting with vibrant, glossy cherries. The result is a dessert that satisfies the desire for comfort food while adding flair that feels worthy of a celebration.

Unlike many layered desserts that demand long baking times or finicky techniques, this one can be made with simple components that come together in under an hour, with the rest of the magic happening in the refrigerator. The flavor combination is exciting without being overwhelming—there’s sweetness, tartness, creaminess, and just enough bitterness from the coffee to balance the entire profile. It’s also incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual get-together or a festive dinner, the dessert fits the occasion perfectly, thanks to its elegant look and crowd-pleasing taste.

The ease of preparation combined with the sophisticated presentation makes this recipe a gem. From the home cook who wants to impress guests with little effort to the experienced baker seeking a fun twist on tiramisu, this recipe is a sweet revelation.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

The ingredients in this dessert are not only chosen for flavor but also bring certain nutritional and sensory benefits that enhance the overall enjoyment. Dark sweet cherries are rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins, which give them their deep red color and are known to reduce inflammation and support heart health. In a dessert context, they also bring vibrant acidity and color, lifting the creamy layers and balancing the sweetness.

Mascarpone cheese, a soft Italian cheese similar to cream cheese but smoother and milder, contributes a luxurious mouthfeel. Its subtle flavor provides a creamy base that doesn’t overpower the cherries or coffee but instead enhances them. Heavy cream, when whipped and folded in, gives the dessert volume and airiness, transforming what could be a dense filling into a light, melt-in-your-mouth cream.

Coffee is another important element. Though it may seem minor, the coffee adds depth and complexity, especially when used to soak the ladyfingers. It anchors the dessert with a slight bitterness, which contrasts wonderfully with the cherry’s tart sweetness. The almond extract, though used sparingly, intensifies the fruit’s flavor and adds an aromatic note that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

The use of both granulated and powdered sugar helps control sweetness at different stages. Granulated sugar stabilizes the cherry syrup mixture, while powdered sugar dissolves easily into the whipped cream, maintaining its fluffiness. Ladyfingers, with their crisp texture and neutral flavor, are ideal for absorbing the syrupy coffee without collapsing, making them essential to this no-bake construction.

Cooking Tips

To ensure the best results, it’s important to handle a few key steps with care. First, don’t over-soak the ladyfingers. A quick dip in the coffee is all that’s needed. If left too long, they’ll become soggy and lose their structure, leading to a runny base. It’s better to err on the side of under-soaking than to risk ruining the texture of the entire dish.

When cooking the cherry syrup, watch for the moment it thickens and turns glossy. This is the sign that the cornstarch has activated. Stir constantly to avoid lumps and prevent the sugar from burning. After cooking, allow the cherry mixture to cool before layering. Adding it too hot will melt the cream and cause it to break down.

Using high-quality mascarpone and freshly whipped cream can make a noticeable difference. The better your base ingredients, the more refined your final dessert will taste. And while this recipe is straightforward, don’t rush the layering process. Each layer contributes to the final presentation, especially if you plan to serve it in a clear dish to show off the vibrant tiers.

If you want to turn this into a more festive version, a splash of cherry liqueur or amaretto in the cherry layer will elevate it even more. Just remember that a little goes a long way. If alcohol isn’t an option, a touch of cherry juice or additional almond extract can provide similar richness.

Finally, patience is key. Letting the tiramisu chill for at least four hours—preferably overnight—allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the layers set properly for neat slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Cherries Jubilee Tiramisu is best served chilled and makes a fantastic finale to any meal. Its bright cherry topping and creamy layers provide a refreshing contrast to heavier entrees, making it ideal for dinner parties or summer gatherings. Because it’s a make-ahead dessert, you can prepare it the night before and focus on other aspects of entertaining the next day.

Presentation matters for this dish. Serve it in a clear glass trifle bowl or layered in individual dessert glasses to highlight its beautiful colors. You can garnish with fresh cherries, a few mint leaves, or a generous sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate to add elegance. If you want to get even more creative, consider a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cherry syrup on each serving plate.

This dessert pairs beautifully with a range of drinks. Espresso or dark-roast coffee will amplify the coffee notes, while a glass of dessert wine or a cherry-infused cocktail will echo the flavors in the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, consider sparkling water with a splash of cherry juice and a lemon twist for balance.

It’s also versatile enough to be served at different times of year. In summer, it’s a cool, refreshing treat when cherries are in season. In winter, its rich layers offer comfort and warmth, especially when paired with a warm beverage or a crackling fire.

Conclusion

Cherries Jubilee Tiramisu isn’t just a dessert—it’s a culinary experience that blends nostalgia with innovation. Its layers of flavor and texture make every bite an exploration of sweet, tart, creamy, and bold. It’s accessible enough for weeknight indulgence yet fancy enough for special events, and its make-ahead nature ensures low-stress preparation. The bright cherry topping not only delivers stunning visual contrast but also balances the richness of the mascarpone cream.

By using simple, easy-to-find ingredients and a streamlined process, this dessert becomes approachable for all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone exploring new recipes, Cherries Jubilee Tiramisu is sure to become a go-to favorite. Its elegant appearance and crowd-pleasing taste ensure it will be remembered long after the last spoonful. With one dish, you can bring a taste of tradition and creativity to the table, delighting family and friends alike.