Tiramisu Variant (Simona Nass)
This elegant variation swaps traditional coffee for the deep, tart sweetness of dark cherries and the warmth of dark rum. Fresh mascarpone cheese is whipped with sugar and rum to create a luxuriously smooth, creamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of rum-soaked ladyfingers. Layers of cherry syrup and whole pitted cherries add bursts of fruity flavor and a beautiful burgundy hue throughout the dessert. It’s a sophisticated yet approachable treat perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or a special weekend indulgence. The flavors meld beautifully when chilled, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert that tastes even better the next day.
Description
This elegant variation swaps traditional coffee for the deep, tart sweetness of dark cherries and the warmth of dark rum. Fresh mascarpone cheese is whipped with sugar and rum to create a luxuriously smooth, creamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of rum-soaked ladyfingers. Layers of cherry syrup and whole pitted cherries add bursts of fruity flavor and a beautiful burgundy hue throughout the dessert. It’s a sophisticated yet approachable treat perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or a special weekend indulgence. The flavors meld beautifully when chilled, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert that tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. mascarpone cheese, really fresh
- 1 large can dark cherries (pitted) in syrup (at least 1 cup liquid)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 T rum, plus
- 1/3 cup rum mixed with water and a little extra granulated sugar
- 24 ladies' fingers or biscotti all'uovo cookies (avail. at Italian specialty shops--sizes vary, but this assumes the fairly large ones)
- 3 equal parts.
- layer of biscuits with the remaining 2/3 cup of canned dark cherry syrup. Layer the final third of the cheese mixture over the biscuits.
Directions
- 1 Blend the mascarpone cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of rum together until smooth and creamy. Divide the mixture into three equal portions.
- 2
Arrange 8 ladyfingers side by side in a loaf pan or serving dish large enough to accommodate them. Pour 1/3 of the canned dark cherry juice over the biscuits, ensuring they are evenly soaked. Spread one-third of the cheese mixture over the biscuits.- 3
Place another 8 ladyfingers side by side over the cheese layer. Soak this layer with the rum-water-sugar mixture. Spread the second third of the cheese mixture over these biscuits.- 4
Place the final 8 ladyfingers side by side over the cheese layer. Soak this layer with the remaining 2/3 cup of canned dark cherry syrup. Spread the final third of the cheese mixture over the biscuits.- 5
Garnish the top with the extra drained cherries. Chill in the refrigerator for several hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.NoteFor best results, use fresh, high-quality mascarpone cheese. Avoid refrigerated mascarpone that has been sitting for a long time, as it may be grainy.
If you prefer a stronger rum flavor, increase the amount of rum in the soaking liquid. You can also substitute dark rum with amaretto or brandy for a different flavor profile.
Ladyfingers vary in size. If your cookies are smaller, you may need more than 24 to create three complete layers. Adjust the quantity as needed to fit your dish.
This dessert is best served chilled. It can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
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