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amaretti cookie trifle dessert recipe

Amaretti Biscuit Trifle

This no-bake Italian-inspired dessert layers crunchy, almond-flavored Amaretti biscuits with rich, creamy mascarpone or whipped cream, and optional chocolate or fruit fillings. Quick to assemble, it offers a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian-inspired, Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g Amaretti biscuits store-bought Amaretti di Saronno recommended
  • 1 cup heavy cream cold
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar optional, for stabilizing whipped cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp Amaretto liqueur or brandy
  • 100 g bittersweet chocolate optional, for chocolate filling
  • 1 cup whole milk optional, for chocolate filling
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese optional, for fruit variation
  • 1-2 peaches optional, for fruit filling
  • 1 tbsp almond extract optional, for non-alcoholic version

Method
 

Prepare the Biscuits:
  1. Crush the Amaretti biscuits into coarse crumbs.
  2. Drizzle Amaretto or brandy over the crumbs, then gently press them into the base of your bowl using the back of a spoon to create a firm layer. Let the crumbs set in the fridge for about 5-10 minutes.
Make the Chocolate Center (optional):
  1. Heat milk in a saucepan and whisk in the chopped bittersweet chocolate, espresso, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.
  2. Let it cool until it thickens to a spoonable consistency, then spread it over the biscuit layer.
Prepare the Cream Layer:
  1. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar (if using) and vanilla extract to soft peaks.
  2. Fold in mascarpone cheese (if using) for a thicker, richer cream.
  3. Spread the cream mixture over the middle layer (chocolate or fruit).
Build the Trifle:
  1. If you're adding fruit, such as Amaretto-poached peaches, layer them between the cream layers.
  2. Chill each layer briefly to set, keeping the strata defined.
Top the Trifle:
  1. Finish with a final layer of whipped cream, smoothing or swooping the cream for an elegant finish.
  2. Garnish with crumbled biscuits, chocolate shards, or toasted almonds for contrast.
Chill and Serve:
  1. Refrigerate the trifle for at least an hour before serving to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
  2. Serve in individual glasses for elegant portions, or use a deep bowl for a family-style presentation.

Notes

  • For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Amaretto liqueur with almond extract and water, or brewed coffee for depth.
  • For the fruit version, poach peaches in a syrup with Amaretto for a beautiful contrast of flavors.
  • You can make the base and middle layers up to a day ahead; add the whipped cream topping just before serving for the best texture and freshness.
  • The biscuit layers will soften over time, making the trifle even creamier.