If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly captures the cozy spirit of fall while delivering that classic creamy indulgence, this Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes the beloved Italian tiramisu to a whole new level by infusing it with luscious pumpkin flavor and warm spices that instantly transport you to crisp autumn days. Creamy mascarpone, fluffy whipped cream, aromatic coffee-dipped ladyfingers, and a velvety pumpkin-spice blend come together in a dreamy harmony that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself, this Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe is guaranteed to become your seasonal favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a unique role in creating its memorable taste, sumptuous texture, and inviting color. From the smooth pumpkin purée that brings autumn magic, to the mascarpone cheese that adds that signature creamy richness, every component is a star.
- Pumpkin purée: Use canned pumpkin for ease, and make sure it’s pure pumpkin without added pie spice for full control over flavor.
- Light brown sugar: Adds depth and a touch of molasses warmth that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- Ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg: These warm spices enhance the pumpkin’s natural flavor, creating that irresistible fall spice blend.
- Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Granulated sugar: For sweetness and to help the mascarpone reach a luscious, fluffy texture.
- Mascarpone cheese: The heart of any tiramisu, providing rich, creamy texture and a mildly tangy taste.
- Heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it lightens the mascarpone mixture for a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Brewed coffee: Cooled to room temperature, it gives the classic tiramisu flavor depth and a pleasantly bitter balance.
- Dry ladyfingers: The delicate, sponge-like base that soaks up coffee and melds beautifully with the cream layers.
- Chocolate shavings and candied ginger: For a final touch of texture, flavor, and visual appeal.
How to Make Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Mix
Start by whisking together pumpkin purée, light brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, kosher salt, and freshly grated nutmeg in a large bowl. This combination creates the fragrant pumpkin-spiced base that makes this tiramisu uniquely special. The smoothness of the pumpkin purée is essential, so mix until you have a uniform blend with no lumps.
Step 2: Whip the Mascarpone and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the granulated sugar together with the mascarpone cheese until the mixture becomes fluffy and light. This step is crucial for balancing the richness of mascarpone with sweetness, resulting in a luscious cream that is not too dense or overly sweet.
Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream
Now, whip the heavy cream separately until you get stiff peaks. The whipped cream introduces airiness, giving the tiramisu a light, dreamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense pumpkin cream and soaked ladyfingers.
Step 4: Combine the Creams
Gently fold the pumpkin spice mixture into the mascarpone, then carefully fold in the whipped cream. This folding technique keeps the mixture light and airy while evenly incorporating the pumpkin flavor. Be gentle to maintain the fluffy texture.
Step 5: Layer the Ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled brewed coffee—just long enough to soak without becoming soggy. Create your first layer of these coffee-soaked ladyfingers in a 9×13 dish or large trifle bowl. This coffee layer adds that classic tiramisu bitterness and moisture needed for balance.
Step 6: Add the Pumpkin Mascarpone Layers
Spread a generous portion of the pumpkin mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out evenly. Repeat layering ladyfingers and cream, finishing off with a thick layer of cream on top. This multi-layered approach builds a dessert that’s rich in flavor and texture.
Step 7: Chill to Perfection
Cover and chill the tiramisu for at least six hours or, ideally, overnight. This resting time helps the flavors mingle and the ladyfingers soften, ensuring a seamless, creamy bite every time.
Step 8: Garnish Before Serving
Just before serving, sprinkle the tiramisu with chocolate shavings and chopped candied ginger. These garnishes add delightful texture, sweet heat, and a visually stunning finish, elevating this Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe into a show-stopping dessert.
How to Serve Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Chocolate shavings bring a rich, slightly bitter contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweet pumpkin cream. Meanwhile, candied ginger adds a lively, spicy crunch that surprises the palate. Consider adding a dusting of cinnamon or a few whole spices for extra autumnal flair, especially if you’re serving this at a festive gathering.
Side Dishes
While this tiramisu stands strong on its own, pairing it with light accompaniments like a simple espresso or chai tea can enhance its flavor profile. For a more substantial fall dessert spread, serve alongside spiced nuts or a crisp apple salad to bring fresh crunch and balance creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try making individual servings in clear glasses or jars, layering the ladyfingers and pumpkin mascarpone in alternating stripes. This not only looks gorgeous but lets each guest enjoy their own perfectly portioned treat. You could also use mini decorative pumpkins or cinnamon sticks as a garnish for a festive touch that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to preserve the moisture of the ladyfingers and prevent the cream from absorbing other odors.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, cover the tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Since tiramisu is a chilled dessert, it’s best enjoyed cold. Avoid reheating as it can cause the creamy layers to separate and the delicate ladyfingers to become mushy. Instead, serve straight from the refrigerator for optimal taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture so your tiramisu isn’t too watery.
Is mascarpone cheese necessary for this recipe?
Mascarpone is traditional and gives tiramisu its signature creamy texture, but you can substitute with a combination of cream cheese and heavy cream if needed. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long should I soak the ladyfingers in coffee?
Dip each ladyfinger briefly, about 1 to 2 seconds, just enough to absorb coffee without becoming soggy. Quick dips ensure they hold their structure while packing flavor.
Can I make this Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute mascarpone and heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative, and use vegan ladyfingers or sponge cake. Note that the texture and taste will vary from the traditional version.
Why do I need to chill the tiramisu for several hours?
Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften just right, creating that perfect creamy, custardy texture that everyone loves in tiramisu.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves autumn flavors paired with classic Italian dessert charm. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, sweet, creamy, and coffee-soaked goodness that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Once you try making this at home, it’s sure to become one of your favorite seasonal treats to share over and over again.
Print
Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Tiramisu is a delicious autumn-inspired twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a rich pumpkin mascarpone cream. Infused with warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this no-bake tiramisu is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy fall evenings.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Mixture
- 2 1/2 cups pumpkin purée (two 15-oz cans)
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
Mascarpone Mixture
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese
- 4 1/4 cups heavy cream
Assembly
- 3 1/3 cups brewed coffee, cooled
- 3 (7-oz) packages dry ladyfingers
- Chocolate shavings and candied ginger, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Pumpkin Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, light brown sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and freshly grated nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix Mascarpone and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the granulated sugar with mascarpone cheese until the mixture becomes fluffy and creamy.
- Whip the Cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks ensuring it holds its shape when the beaters are lifted.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the pumpkin mixture into the mascarpone mixture until incorporated, then carefully fold in the whipped cream to maintain the airy texture.
- Dip Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled brewed coffee, ensuring they absorb some coffee but do not become soggy.
- Assemble Layers: Arrange a layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers in a 9×13 inch dish or a large trifle bowl, then spread a generous layer of the pumpkin mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of the cream on top.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate the assembled tiramisu for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to set and allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the tiramisu with chocolate shavings and chopped candied ginger for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure ladyfingers are dipped quickly in coffee to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
- Use mascarpone cheese at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Chilling overnight enhances the flavors and texture.
- Candied ginger adds a lovely spicy contrast but can be omitted if preferred.
- Can be assembled in individual cups for serving portions.
