1. Combine cherries, water, granulated sugar and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, and cook, occaisionally stirring, for 20 minutes. Let cool.

2. Meanwhile, blend cream cheese, ricotta, vanilla,confectioner's 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 amaretti cookies and serve immediately.

The ricotta filling can be mixed by hand, but the food processor makes smoother  results.