Black Forest Tiramisu

The Story Behind the Recipe🍒

Tiramisu has always been a symbol of celebration in my family. The creamy layers of mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and cocoa powder make it a showstopper for any occasion. But one winter, I wanted to mix two of my favorite desserts — Tiramisu and Black Forest Cake.

I combined the classic tiramisu technique with the rich flavors of chocolate and cherries. The result? Black Forest Tiramisu — a layered dessert with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, juicy cherries, and a chocolatey finish. The first time I served it, my family’s eyes lit up at the cherry-chocolate combination paired with the coffee-soaked layers.

Now, it’s my go-to dessert for holidays, dinner parties, or any day that calls for something special. Every spoonful brings that creamy, chocolatey, cherry-filled joy that’s impossible to resist.

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What Makes This Recipe Special

• 🍒 Cherry & Chocolate Twist: Classic Black Forest flavors integrated into tiramisu.
• 🥄 Creamy Mascarpone Layers: Smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced.
• ☕ Coffee-Soaked Ladyfingers: Adds depth and richness to every bite.
• 🕰️ No-Bake Elegance: Easy to assemble but impressive enough for guests.
• 🌿 Customizable: Add chocolate shavings, cherry liqueur, or whipped cream as desired.

It’s a dessert that feels festive, indulgent, and cozy — perfect for special moments or just treating yourself.

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor

🥄 For the Tiramisu Layers:

• 24–30 ladyfinger cookies
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 3 tablespoons cherry liqueur (Kirsch) or cherry juice for non-alcoholic version
• ½ cup granulated sugar

🥣 For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 16 oz (2 cups) mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

🍒 For the Black Forest Twist:

• 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or canned, drained)
• ½ cup chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips
• Optional: 2 tablespoons cherry preserves

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Coffee Mixture

In a shallow dish, combine brewed coffee and cherry liqueur (or cherry juice). Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream

In a large mixing bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in mascarpone cheese and vanilla until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Cherries

If using canned cherries, drain well. Fresh cherries can be halved or pitted. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the First Layer

Quickly dip half of the ladyfingers into the coffee-cherry mixture (1–2 seconds each side; do not soak). Arrange in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×9-inch or similar dish.

Step 5: Layer Mascarpone Cream & Cherries

Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Sprinkle with half of the cherries and chocolate shavings.

Step 6: Repeat Layers

Dip the remaining ladyfingers in coffee mixture and arrange over the cream layer. Top with remaining mascarpone cream, cherries, and chocolate. Optionally, swirl in cherry preserves for extra sweetness.

Step 7: Chill

Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set.

Step 8: Serve

Cut into squares or scoop with a large spoon. Optionally, garnish with additional chocolate shavings or a few whole cherries on top. Serve chilled.

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With

• ☕ Espresso or Cappuccino: Classic pairing for tiramisu.
• 🍓 Fresh Berries: Adds tartness and a fresh contrast to the sweet layers.
• 🍫 Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle lightly for extra indulgence.
• 🥂 Dessert Wine or Sparkling Wine: Pairs beautifully with creamy mascarpone and cherries.
• 🍰 Holiday Tables: Stunning as a centerpiece for Christmas or Valentine’s Day desserts.

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Customization & Variations

• 🍒 Alcohol-Free Version: Substitute cherry juice for liqueur.
• 🍫 Extra Chocolate: Add more chocolate shavings or a thin chocolate ganache layer.
• 🥄 Mini Tiramisu Cups: Assemble in small glasses or jars for individual servings.
• 🌿 Nutty Twist: Sprinkle crushed toasted almonds or hazelnuts between layers.
• 🍓 Berry Swap: Use raspberries or mixed berries instead of cherries for a twist.
• 🧁 Citrus Notes: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the mascarpone cream for freshness.

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Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Can be frozen (without chocolate shavings on top) for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Serving Tip: Keep chilled for best texture.

(Pro Tip: Garnish right before serving to maintain fresh appearance and prevent sogginess.)

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 360
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 90mg

Indulgent, creamy, fruity, and chocolatey — a dessert to impress while still comforting and familiar.

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Overnight is ideal.

2. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, thaw and drain them well before using.

3. Can I use different cookies instead of ladyfingers?
Sponge cake or pound cake slices work as well.

4. How do I prevent soggy tiramisu?
Dip ladyfingers quickly in coffee mixture; do not soak.

5. Can I make mini tiramisu cups?
Absolutely — layer in small glasses or jars for individual servings.

6. Can I omit alcohol?
Yes, use cherry juice or strong coffee instead.

7. Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes, but mascarpone gives the classic creamy texture. Mix with a little heavy cream for smoothness.

8. Can I add chocolate liqueur?
Yes, a splash of chocolate or cherry liqueur adds richness.

9. How long should it chill?
At least 4 hours; overnight is ideal for full flavor development.

10. Can I freeze assembled tiramisu?
Yes — wrap tightly, freeze, and thaw overnight before serving.

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Final Thoughts 🍽️

This Black Forest Tiramisu is a show-stopping dessert that blends the best of two worlds: the classic Italian tiramisu and the rich, cherry-chocolate flavors of Black Forest cake.

Creamy mascarpone layers, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, chocolate shavings, and juicy cherries make every bite indulgent yet elegant. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or romantic nights, this dessert is both comforting and luxurious. Every spoonful is a little celebration of flavor, texture, and nostalgia. 💛

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Tried This Recipe? 💕

Did you make my Black Forest Tiramisu?

📸 Snap a photo and share it on Pinterest, tagging @Granny’s Lil Kitchen! Whether you added extra cherries, chocolate, or whipped cream, I’d love to see your version.

Leave a comment, rate the recipe, and follow for more comforting, decadent desserts that turn every meal into a celebration. 🍒🍫