If you’re searching for that perfect cozy dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall, look no further than this delightful Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe. Combining the creamy richness of classic tiramisu with the warm, aromatic spices of pumpkin purée, this dessert will instantly become your new seasonal favorite. The layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers paired with a luscious pumpkin mascarpone cream create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that are utterly irresistible. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply craving an indulgent treat, this recipe brings a festive twist to a beloved Italian classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are surprisingly straightforward but essential, each playing a vital role in balancing flavor, creaminess, and that signature spice blend that makes this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe shine. The simplicity also makes it wonderfully approachable, even if you’re new to tiramisu or pumpkin desserts.
- 1 cup pumpkin purée: Provides the creamy pumpkin base and natural sweetness without added sugars from canned pie filling.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds subtle molasses flavor enhancing the warm spices.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: The heart of fall flavor, blending cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Boosts the spice profile and gives a fragrant warmth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a sweet floral note helping merge all flavors.
- 1 1/4 cups cold heavy cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, it lightens the mascarpone and pumpkin mix.
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened): Creates the rich, smooth texture tiramisu is known for.
- 24–30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi): The classic sponge element that soaks up the coffee beautifully.
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled): Provides the bold contrast that balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional): Adds depth and a boozy kick if desired.
- Cocoa powder and crushed gingersnap cookies: For that perfect finishing touch—adds complexity and crunch on top.
How to Make Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together your pumpkin purée, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. This fragrant blend forms the flavorful foundation of your creamy layers, setting the tone for the entire dessert.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate chilled bowl, beat the cold heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Whipping the cream just right is key because it adds lightness and volume to the dense mascarpone mixture that comes next.
Step 3: Combine Mascarpone and Pumpkin
Beat the mascarpone cheese in a third bowl until creamy and smooth. Gently fold in the pumpkin mixture, ensuring all ingredients meld without deflating the cheese. This creates the luxuriously smooth, flavorful base for your tiramisu layers.
Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Cream
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin-mascarpone blend until fully combined and silky smooth. This step creates the airy texture that makes this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe such a delight to eat.
Step 5: Dip Ladyfingers
Mix your cooled espresso with coffee liqueur if you’re using it. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture but don’t soak them—they should be moist but still hold their structure. The coffee flavor is essential for the signature tiramisu experience.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers on the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish or similar-sized pan. Spread half of the pumpkin mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers evenly. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and spread the remaining pumpkin mixture on top. Smooth the surface generously—this is where all your flavors come together beautifully.
Step 7: Chill
Refrigerate your tiramisu for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften perfectly, creating that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture you crave.
How to Serve Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle crushed gingersnap cookies for a delightful crunch. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add layers of texture and a complementary spicy kick that elevates every forkful.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of black coffee or spiced chai to echo the warm notes in the tiramisu. If you’re serving it at a dinner party, a light fruit salad with pear and pomegranate can offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe in individual glass jars or pretty parfait cups. This presentation not only looks gorgeous but also makes serving hassle-free, especially for gatherings or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tiramisu should be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for up to three days. As it sits, the flavors deepen, often tasting even better than the first day.
Freezing
This tiramisu can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly softer once frozen and thawed, but still delicious.
Reheating
Because tiramisu is best served chilled, reheating is generally not recommended. Instead, allow it to come to a slight room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors and soften the texture just enough for ultimate enjoyment.
FAQs
Can I substitute mascarpone in the Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe?
Absolutely! Cream cheese can be used as a substitute for mascarpone if you prefer a tangier flavor or have it on hand. Just make sure it’s softened for easier blending with the pumpkin mixture.
Is it necessary to use espresso or can I use regular coffee?
You can use strong brewed coffee if espresso is unavailable. Just make sure the coffee is cooled before dipping the ladyfingers to achieve that characteristic rich flavor without bitterness.
How far in advance can I make this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe?
Making this dessert the day before serving is perfect since the flavors need time to meld and the ladyfingers to soften. You can also prepare it up to two days in advance for even better results.
Can I adjust the spices in this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to tweak the pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon to your liking. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can also enhance the warmth and complexity of the dessert.
Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe is entirely vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for gatherings where guests may have dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe is a cozy, elegant dessert that brings together the best of fall flavors and classic Italian charm. It’s an absolute joy to make and even more delightful to share with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to try it yourself—you might just find it becomes your go-to dessert throughout the season!
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Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus at least 4 hours chilling time)
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining rich pumpkin purée and warm spices with creamy mascarpone and layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Perfect for fall, this no-bake treat is smooth, flavorful, and easy to prepare ahead of time for a crowd-pleasing autumn dessert.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Mixture
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Mixture
- 1 1/4 cups cold heavy cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened)
Assembly
- 24–30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- Cocoa powder (for topping)
- Crushed gingersnap cookies (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until smooth and evenly blended.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form to ensure a light and airy texture.
- Blend Mascarpone and Pumpkin: Beat the softened mascarpone cheese until creamy and smooth in a third bowl. Gently fold the prepared pumpkin mixture into the mascarpone.
- Combine with Whipped Cream: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone and pumpkin mixture until fully combined and smooth, creating a fluffy pumpkin mascarpone filling.
- Mix Coffee and Liqueur: In a shallow dish, mix the cooled espresso or strong coffee with coffee liqueur if using. This will be used to soak the ladyfingers briefly.
- Assemble the First Layer: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them. Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish or similar sized pan.
- Add Pumpkin Mascarpone Layer: Spread half of the pumpkin mascarpone mixture evenly over the first ladyfinger layer.
- Repeat Layers: Dip the remaining ladyfingers in the coffee mixture and place them as a second layer over the pumpkin mascarpone. Top with the remaining pumpkin mascarpone mixture and smooth the surface.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder and sprinkle crushed gingersnap cookies for added texture and a complementary spice note.
Notes
- You can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese for a slightly tangier flavor.
- Adjust the spice level to taste by adding extra cinnamon or nutmeg.
- This dessert gets better as it chills, so make it ahead if possible.
