This Black Forest Tiramisu offers a luxurious spin on two beloved classics—Italy’s iconic tiramisu and Germany’s rich Black Forest cake. It’s a no-bake dessert layered with fluffy mascarpone cream, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, sweet cherries, and dark chocolate shavings. With every spoonful, you get a beautiful balance of sweetness, richness, and a slight tang from the cherries, making it an unforgettable treat for any occasion. Perfect for special celebrations or romantic evenings, this dessert doesn’t just taste divine—it looks stunning. Whether you’re making it in a large glass dish for sharing or assembling individual portions in dessert glasses, the contrasting layers create a visual feast. It’s the kind of dessert that impresses at the table and leaves guests asking for seconds. Plus, since it’s made ahead and chilled, it’s a host’s best friend.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups heavy cream
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1 cup mascarpone cheese
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⅓ cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 package ladyfinger biscuits (about 24)
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½ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
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¼ cup cherry liqueur (or cherry juice as non-alcoholic option)
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1 can cherry pie filling (or 2 cups pitted cherries, cooked with 2 tbsp sugar)
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⅓ cup dark chocolate, shaved or finely chopped
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Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
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Fresh cherries and chocolate shavings for garnish
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
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Add mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue to whip until smooth and creamy.
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In a shallow dish, combine espresso and cherry liqueur.
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Quickly dip each ladyfinger biscuit into the liquid mixture—don’t oversoak.
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Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a square or rectangular dish.
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Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the ladyfingers.
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Spoon half of the cherry filling over the cream and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings.
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Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone mixture, cherries, and chocolate.
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Dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
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Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
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Garnish with fresh cherries and chocolate before serving.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Chilling Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
The Origins of Black Forest Tiramisu
Black Forest Tiramisu is a modern dessert hybrid that brings together two beloved European classics: the German Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) and the Italian Tiramisu. The traditional Black Forest Cake is known for its layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and sour cherries, all soaked in kirsch (a cherry brandy). On the other hand, Tiramisu is a creamy, coffee-infused Italian dessert made with layers of espresso-dipped ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese. The Black Forest Tiramisu merges these elements into a no-bake, chilled dessert that captures the essence of both in every bite—moist, rich, sweet, and slightly tangy.
Why This Dessert Stands Out
What makes this Black Forest Tiramisu exceptional is its luxurious layering of textures and flavors. It’s not just a dessert—it’s an experience. Each spoonful offers a blend of creamy mascarpone filling, coffee-kissed biscuits, tart cherries, and decadent dark chocolate. Unlike a classic cake that requires baking and cooling, this tiramisu-style dessert is no-bake and fuss-free. You can prepare it in advance, which makes it perfect for entertaining or for holidays when oven space is limited.
A Make-Ahead Showstopper for Any Occasion
One of the most practical benefits of this recipe is its make-ahead nature. You can prepare it the night before your gathering, letting the flavors develop and intensify overnight. This not only enhances the taste but also makes your hosting responsibilities much easier. By the time dessert is served, all the hard work is already done. It’s ideal for dinner parties, potlucks, birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration that calls for an indulgent yet elegant dessert.
Healthier Indulgence with Balanced Ingredients
While this dessert is undoubtedly indulgent, it’s surprisingly well-balanced. Mascarpone cheese offers a creamy texture without the need for excessive sugar. Dark chocolate, rich in antioxidants, adds depth without overwhelming sweetness. The cherries bring natural fruitiness and a burst of vitamin C. And if you opt for real espresso, you’re also getting a small boost of natural caffeine and flavor without added sugars. For those avoiding alcohol, the cherry liqueur can be replaced with natural cherry juice, keeping it kid-friendly and suitable for all guests.
Easy to Customize
This recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can easily tweak the ingredients to fit dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Gluten-free ladyfingers make it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests. You can also swap out mascarpone for vegan cream cheese to make a dairy-free version. Want to go extra decadent? Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or an extra layer of whipped cream. Craving more fruitiness? Mix in some fresh berries. The base recipe is strong enough to accommodate creative variations.
The Perfect Blend of Flavor and Texture
What truly sets Black Forest Tiramisu apart is the harmony of textures: the soft, soaked ladyfingers, the velvety mascarpone layer, the syrupy cherries, and the bite of dark chocolate. This combination creates a mouthfeel that is both luxurious and comforting. It’s indulgent enough for a holiday feast but simple enough to make whenever you crave something sweet and satisfying.
Visual Appeal That Impresses
This dessert is a visual masterpiece. When served in a clear glass dish or individual cups, the layers of cream, cherries, and chocolate create a striking contrast that looks as good as it tastes. Garnishing the top with cocoa powder, fresh cherries, and a few curls of chocolate takes it from a simple dessert to a restaurant-quality showstopper. It’s a guaranteed conversation starter and an Instagram-worthy finale to any meal.
No-Bake Convenience
For those who dread the idea of turning on the oven—especially during hot months—this recipe is a lifesaver. It’s assembled in layers and chilled, not baked. This makes it perfect not only for summer but also for busy kitchens during the holidays. The most effort you’ll exert is whipping cream and layering components. The result is a high-reward, low-effort treat that delivers every time.
Perfect for Sharing or Personal Servings
Whether you choose to present it in a large trifle bowl for communal scooping or in individual dessert glasses for more formal servings, this tiramisu is easy to portion and present. The individual cup option is great for dinner parties or receptions where a beautiful single-serving dessert makes a lasting impression. Plus, they’re easier to transport and store.
Flavors That Mature with Time
One of the often-overlooked strengths of tiramisu-style desserts is how the flavor improves as it sits. The espresso and cherry liqueur gently soak into the biscuits, softening them and enriching their flavor. The mascarpone layer becomes even silkier after several hours in the fridge. This maturation transforms the dish into something deeply satisfying—making leftovers, if any, even more irresistible the next day.
Conclusion
Black Forest Tiramisu is not just a dessert—it’s a story of culinary fusion that respects tradition while embracing modern convenience. With its rich layers, elegant appearance, and customizable ingredients, it’s a go-to dessert for anyone who wants to impress without stress. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat that’s both sophisticated and soul-satisfying, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Try it once, and it will earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.