Creamy Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu
Creamy Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert that brings together smooth mascarpone, pumpkin puree, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It's a layered…
Tip: save now, cook later.Creamy Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert that brings together smooth mascarpone, pumpkin puree, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s a layered treat with soft ladyfingers soaked in espresso and a hint of pumpkin spice, creating a perfect balance of creamy and cozy flavors.
I love making this dessert in the fall when pumpkin everything is in full swing. What makes it special to me is how the pumpkin spice adds a comforting, seasonal touch without overpowering the traditional tiramisu richness. It’s like getting a hug in dessert form, and it always feels like a little celebration when I serve it to family or friends.
One of my favorite things about this tiramisu is how easy it is to prepare ahead of time. I usually make it the day before I want to serve it, which allows the flavors to blend and the layers to set beautifully. It’s a hassle-free dessert that steals the show on any autumn gathering or cozy night in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin works great and saves time, but fresh homemade puree adds a fresher taste. Either way, smooth texture helps keep your tiramisu creamy.
Mascarpone Cheese: This is essential for tiramisu’s creamy texture. If you can’t find it, try mixing cream cheese with a little heavy cream to get close.
Ladyfingers: These light, crisp cookies soak up coffee perfectly. If unavailable, sponge cake slices can be a decent substitute but handle gently.
Pumpkin Spice Liqueur: It’s optional and adds extra warmth. When skipping, vanilla extract is a simple alternative that still complements the flavors.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipping cream adds lightness when folded into the mascarpone mixture. Make sure it’s very cold for the best whipping results.
How Do You Avoid Soggy Ladyfingers in Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu?
The key is a quick dip in the coffee mixture—about 1-2 seconds per ladyfinger so they absorb flavor but don’t fall apart.
- Pour coffee (mixed with liqueur or vanilla) into a shallow dish.
- Dip each ladyfinger briefly—watch for softening but no sogginess.
- Lay them down immediately in the dish to start building your layers.
- Work quickly so the ladyfingers don’t soak too long, keeping their shape.
This method creates tender yet firm layers that hold up well after chilling, giving you that classic tiramisu texture with a pumpkin twist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – A couple of different sizes help separate the mascarpone mix and whipped cream easily.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – Makes whipping cream quick and gives you stiff peaks every time.
- Shallow dish – Perfect for dipping ladyfingers quickly without soaking them too long.
- Spatula – Great for folding the whipped cream gently into the pumpkin mixture without losing air.
- Serving dish or individual ramekins – Choose a clear glass dish to show off the pretty layers.
- Sieve or fine mesh strainer – Ideal for dusting the top evenly with cocoa powder for a professional finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of dark rum or bourbon in place of pumpkin spice liqueur for a boozy kick that works well with pumpkin flavors.
- Mix in a handful of crushed gingersnaps or cinnamon graham crackers into the layers for extra spice and crunch.
- Swap pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a milder, earthier flavor that still fits the fall vibe.
- Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy layers.
Creamy Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
- 1/4 cup pumpkin spice liqueur (optional, can substitute with vanilla extract)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 24 ladyfinger biscuits
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours chilling time in the fridge to let the flavors blend and the tiramisu set. For best results, refrigerate overnight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Coffee Mixture:
In a shallow dish, mix the cooled coffee or espresso with pumpkin spice liqueur (or vanilla extract if using). This mixture will be for dipping the ladyfingers.
2. Make the Pumpkin Cream:
In a large bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture until fully combined and smooth.
3. Assemble the Tiramisu:
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, about 1-2 seconds, making sure they soak but don’t become soggy.
Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of your serving dish or individual ramekins.
Spread half of the pumpkin cream evenly over the ladyfingers.
Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers on top, then spread the remaining pumpkin cream over that.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set.
Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Serve chilled and enjoy your creamy, festive pumpkin spice tiramisu!
Can I Use Frozen Pumpkin Puree for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing to keep your tiramisu creamy and not watery.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes best fresh but will maintain good texture and flavor within that timeframe.
What Can I Substitute for Pumpkin Spice Liqueur?
If you don’t have pumpkin spice liqueur, vanilla extract works perfectly and adds a nice complementary flavor without the alcohol.
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Making it a day ahead actually improves the flavor as it lets the layers meld together beautifully. Just be sure to cover it tightly and keep it refrigerated.