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Black Forest Tiramisu Cake

Black Forest Tiramisu Cake - featured image

A show-stopping no-bake dessert that combines the rich flavors of classic tiramisu with the cherry-chocolate magic of Black Forest cake. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, luscious mascarpone cream, sweet-tart cherry compote, and dark chocolate make every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2430 ladyfingers (about 7 oz or 200g)
  • 1 1/2 cups (12 fl oz) espresso or strong coffee, cooled
  • 1/4 cup (2 fl oz) cherry liqueur (kirsch), optional (or cherry juice for non-alcoholic)
  • 2 cups (about 10 oz or 300g) cherries, pitted and halved (fresh or frozen)
  • 3 tablespoons (38g) sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons (1 fl oz) cold water
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) lemon juice
  • 16 oz (450g) mascarpone cheese, cold
  • 1 cup (8 fl oz) heavy cream, cold
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
  • 2 oz (60g) dark chocolate, grated or shaved
  • Extra cherries for topping (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cherry compote: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until cherries release juices and begin to simmer (about 5 minutes).
  2. Stir in dissolved cornstarch and lemon juice. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  3. Mix the coffee soak: In a shallow dish, combine cooled espresso or coffee with cherry liqueur (or cherry juice). Let cool fully.
  4. Whip the mascarpone cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat mascarpone cheese until smooth. Add heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip on medium-high until thick and soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes). Do not overwhip.
  5. Layer the dessert: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1-2 seconds per side. Line the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan or deep dish with a single layer of dipped ladyfingers.
  6. Spread half the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Spoon half the cherry compote over the cream layer.
  7. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, remaining cream, and remaining cherry compote.
  8. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
  9. Just before serving, top with grated or shaved dark chocolate, extra cherries, and a dusting of cocoa powder if desired.
  10. Run a thin knife around the edge before unmolding if using a springform pan. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts.

Notes

Dip ladyfingers quickly to avoid sogginess. Chill at least 4 hours for best texture and flavor. For gluten-free, use GF ladyfingers; for dairy-free, substitute coconut cream and vegan cream cheese. Can be assembled in a trifle bowl or baking dish. Freeze ungarnished for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Keywords: black forest tiramisu, cherry dessert, no bake cake, mascarpone, ladyfingers, chocolate, easy dessert, make ahead, holiday dessert, birthday cake