BLACK FOREST TIRAMISU

BLACK FOREST TIRAMISU 🍫🍒

The ultimate fusion dessert! Combining the rich cocoa and dark cherry flavours of a classic German Black Forest cake with the light, creamy, coffee-soaked layers of an Italian Tiramisu.

INGREDIENTS

For the Cherry Layer:

 * 2 cups (approx. 400g) dark sweet cherries (fresh or pitted/canned in juice, drained)

 * 2 tbsp cherry liqueur (such as Kirsch) or cherry juice

For the Espresso Soak:

 * 1 ½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled

 * 1 tbsp sugar

 * 1 tbsp Kirsch, rum, or amaretto (optional)

For the Cream & Chocolate Layers:

 * 16 oz (450g) Mascarpone cheese, softened

 * 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream, cold

 * ½ cup powdered sugar

 * 1 tsp vanilla extract

 * ½ cup dark chocolate ganache or chocolate fudge sauce

For Assembly:

 * 1 pack (approx. 24–30) Italian Savoiardi (Ladyfingers)

 * Dark chocolate curls or shavings for topping

 * Fresh cherries with stems for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

 * Prep the Cherries & Soak:

   In a small bowl, toss the cherries with 2 tbsp of Kirsch or cherry juice and set aside. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the cooled espresso, 1 tbsp sugar, and optional splash of liquor.

 * Make the Cream:

   In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until silky and light.

 * First Layer:

   Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso soak (1-2 seconds per side so they don't get soggy) and arrange in a single layer at the bottom of an 8x8 or 9x13-inch baking dish.

 * Add Fillings:

   Drizzle a layer of dark chocolate sauce over the soaked ladyfingers. Spread half of the cream mixture over top, then scatter half of the cherries evenly.

 * Second Layer:

   Repeat with a second layer of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, another drizzle of chocolate sauce, cherries, and finish with the remaining mascarpone cream smoothed evenly over top.

 * Garnish & Chill:

   Top generously with dark chocolate shavings or curls and fresh whole cherries. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 to 6 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the layers to set.

Slice, serve cold, and enjoy! 😋✨

Save this post for your next weekend treat or holiday gathering!