Food & Cooking Recipes Dessert & Treats Recipes Cherry and Amaretti Parfaits Be the first to rate & review! By Martha Stewart Test Kitchen Martha Stewart Test Kitchen The recipes developed by our test kitchen team have undergone a rigorous process of development and testing, ensuring that every element is optimal, from ingredient amounts to method and cooking time. This process includes triple-testing recipes to ensure they meet our high standards. The many stellar cooks and food editors who have been part of our team include Sarah Carey, Lucinda Scala Quinn, Jennifer Aaronson, Shira Bocar, Anna Kovel, Greg Lofts, Riley Wofford, Lauren Tyrell, and Lindsay Leopold. Editorial Guidelines Updated on January 9, 2019 Print Rate It Share Share Tweet Pin Email Servings: 4 The familiarity of cherry cheesecake is reimagined in this surprisingly simple dessert. In each parfait, a quick, creamy ricotta filling is layered over sweetened poached cherries and topped with crumbled almond cookies from the market. Ingredients 6 ounces (1 cup) dried cherries 1 cup water ½ cup granulated sugar ¼ teaspoon coarse salt 6 ounces cream cheese, softened ¾ cup part-skim ricotta ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract ¼ cup confectioners' sugar 8 amaretti cookies, coarsely crumbled Directions Combine cherries, water, granulated sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes. Let cool. Meanwhile, blend cream cheese, ricotta, vanilla, confectioners' sugar, and remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt in a food processor until smooth. Divide cherries among 4 glasses, then top each with ricotta mixture. Sprinkle tops with crumbled amaretti cookies, and serve immediately. Cook's Notes The ricotta filling can be mixed by hand, but for the smoothest results, use a food processor. Rate it Print