A delightful cherry version of the classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu.

Cherry-Misu

2 (10-ounce) jars maraschino cherries

2 (8-ounce) cartons mascarpone cheese

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons amaretto or brandy

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup water

42 crisp ladyfinger cookies

2 (1.55-ounce) milk chocolate candy bars, grated

Chocolate curls

1. Drain cherries, reserving juice and 9 cherries; set aside. Chop remaining cherries.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cheese, sugar amaretto, vanilla and 1 tablespoon cherry juice. In another bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form; gently fold into cheese mixture.
3. Combine water and remaining cherry juice.
4. Arrange 14 ladyfingers in an ungreased 9-inch square pan. Brush with 3/4 cup cherry juice mixture. Spread 1 1/3 cups cheese mixture over ladyfingers. Sprinkle with half of the chopped cherries and grated chocolate. Repeat layers.
5. Top with remaining ladyfingers and cheese mixture. Garnish with chocolate curls and reserved cherries.
6. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Makes 9 servings.

Editor's Note: This recipe was prepared with Alessi brand crisp ladyfinger cookies.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Nationalcherries.com; through ECES, Inc., Electronic Color Editorial Services.