Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. Cook the Cherries: In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Tiramisu Filling

1. Whip Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Combine with Mascarpone: In another bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu

1. Combine Coffee and Liqueur: In a shallow dish, combine the brewed coffee and coffee liqueur, if using.
2. Dip Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, making sure they are soaked but not soggy.
3. Layer Ingredients: In a rectangular or square serving dish, arrange half of the soaked ladyfingers in a single layer. Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers, followed by half of the cherry filling. Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers, mascarpone filling, and cherries.

Step 4: Chill

1. Chill the Tiramisu: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

Step 5: Serve

1. Dust and Garnish: Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
2. Slice and Enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy.