There’s something downright magical about the Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe, a no-bake masterpiece that elegantly marries the cozy warmth of pumpkin spices with the classic Italian tiramisu charm. Imagine layers of maple-coffee-soaked ladyfingers paired with a luscious spiced pumpkin cream and finished with a cloud-like mascarpone topping. This dessert is not just easy to prepare; it’s a showstopper for any fall gathering, bringing together the comforting flavors of autumn in every indulgent bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe starts with simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and seasonal spirit. From the aromatic spices to the creamy mascarpone, every component is essential in creating that dreamy tiramisu experience with a pumpkin twist.
- Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient providing that rich autumn flavor and moist texture to the filling.
- Ground cinnamon and ginger: Classic fall spices that add warmth and depth.
- Fine grain sea salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Heavy cream: Whipped into soft peaks to add a light, airy texture to the pumpkin filling and mascarpone topping.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream and pumpkin mixture, creating a delicate balance.
- Ladyfingers: Crisp and sturdy, ideal for soaking up the maple-coffee syrup without falling apart.
- Pure maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of caramel complexity to the coffee soak.
- Espresso or strong brewed coffee: Infuses a bold, slightly bitter edge that cuts through the sweetness elegantly.
- Mascarpone cheese: The creamy, tangy heart of the tiramisu topping, whipped to fluffy perfection.
- Vanilla bean paste or extract: A subtle aromatic boost that rounds out the dessert beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon and freshly grated nutmeg: Garnishes that bring a fragrant finishing touch and seasonal flair.
How to Make Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
In a small bowl, combine the pumpkin puree with cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream and sugar until soft peaks form before gently folding this into your spiced pumpkin mixture. This step ensures your filling is light, flavorful, and perfectly spiced for fall.
Step 2: Make the Coffee Maple Soak and Line Ladyfingers
Stir together pure maple syrup and espresso or strong coffee in a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into this mixture – just long enough to soak without sogginess – and line the bottom of your prepared loaf pan. Drizzle an extra spoonful of maple-coffee syrup over the first layer of ladyfingers to keep each bite moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Layer the Pumpkin Filling and Ladyfingers
Spread half of the luscious pumpkin filling over the syrup-drizzled ladyfingers. Then place your second layer of soaked ladyfingers over the pumpkin. Drizzle the remaining syrup over this next layer, and finally, top with the rest of the pumpkin filling. This layering creates the classic tiramisu effect infused with pumpkin goodness.
Step 4: Whip and Spread the Mascarpone Topping
Beat mascarpone cheese with sugar until smooth, then gradually add heavy cream and vanilla until light and fluffy. Spoon the mascarpone cream over your layered dessert, swirling it prettily with a spatula for that homemade, elegant look. This airy topping balances the spices and syrup-soaked ladyfingers perfectly.
Step 5: Chill and Finish
Cover your assembled tiramisu loosely and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set fully. Once firm, carefully lift it from the loaf pan using the overhanging plastic wrap, place it on a serving platter, and garnish with a sprinkling of ground cinnamon and freshly grated nutmeg for a beautiful finishing touch.
How to Serve Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe presentation to the next level, finishing with a dusting of warm cinnamon and nutmeg is a must. These spices not only add visual appeal but also enhance the cozy autumn aroma, inviting everyone to dig in eagerly. Fresh grated nutmeg offers a subtle, spicy kick that complements the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dessert is a star on its own, but pairing it with a simple fall salad or a glass of spiced mulled wine can elevate your meal. Think crisp apple slices or walnuts on the side to contrast with the dessert’s creamy texture. A warm cup of chai or a robust coffee complements the layered flavors beautifully for a complete fall-themed experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests visually, serve your Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe in individual glass cups or clear mason jars. It allows everyone to see the gorgeous layered filling and mascarpone topping. Alternatively, cutting perfect slices from the loaf pan and serving with a cinnamon-dusted plate adds a rustic, homey charm that’s perfect for a Thanksgiving table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Pumpkin Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, making the dessert even more indulgent the next day. Make sure to store it tightly wrapped to avoid any absorption of other fridge odors, preserving that fresh pumpkin and coffee essence.
Freezing
You can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. This is perfect if you want to prepare ahead of a big event or enjoy your tiramisu in smaller portions later. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the creamy texture and full flavor without any sogginess.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Thaw the frozen tiramisu slices slowly in the refrigerator, then serve chilled for the best texture and taste. The creaminess and spiced layers are meant to be enjoyed cold, making every bite refreshingly delightful.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can, but fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked and pureed until smooth before using. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and has a consistent texture that works best for this recipe’s creamy filling.
Is espresso required, or can I use regular coffee?
While espresso provides a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the syrup, strong brewed coffee is an excellent substitute that still adds the necessary bitterness to cut through the sweet layers.
Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
It would require several substitutions, such as using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a vegan cream cheese alternative for mascarpone. Additionally, ensure your ladyfingers and coffee syrup ingredients fit your dietary preferences.
How far in advance can I prepare Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe?
This dessert can be made up to 24 hours ahead to allow flavors to meld perfectly. Just cover it loosely and refrigerate until serving, adding the cinnamon and nutmeg garnish right before presenting.
What if I don’t have a loaf pan; can I use a different dish?
Absolutely! A square or rectangular baking dish will work just as well. Adjust the layering accordingly and trim ladyfingers to fit your chosen container. The shape doesn’t affect the deliciousness at all.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive, you simply must try this Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe. It’s effortless to assemble, doesn’t require baking, and fills your kitchen with the most inviting autumn aromas. Once you taste the creamy pumpkin layers blended with maple and espresso notes, you’ll understand why this has become a beloved seasonal favorite. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for this recipe year after year!
PrintPumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
This easy Pumpkin Tiramisu is a creamy, no-bake fall dessert featuring layers of maple-coffee-dipped ladyfingers, spiced pumpkin filling, and whipped mascarpone topping. Assembled in a loaf pan and chilled overnight, it offers light, elegant slices perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or any festive autumn gathering.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pumpkin Filling:
- 3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon fine grain sea salt or other fine salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Ladyfingers:
- 12 crisp ladyfingers (3.5 oz. or half of a 7 oz. package)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons espresso or strongly brewed coffee
Mascarpone Topping:
- 8 oz. mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for sprinkling garnish)
- Freshly grated nutmeg (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, allowing it to overhang two sides for easy dessert removal later. Set aside.
- Make Pumpkin Filling: In a small bowl, combine pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. In a separate medium bowl, whip heavy cream and sugar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture until well blended. Set aside.
- Prepare Coffee Syrup and Ladyfingers: In a shallow dish, stir together maple syrup and espresso or strong coffee. Quickly dip 6 ladyfingers one at a time into the syrup, then layer them at the bottom of the prepared pan, trimming to fit if necessary. Drizzle an extra spoonful of syrup over these ladyfingers.
- Assemble First Pumpkin Layer: Pour half of the pumpkin filling evenly over the soaked ladyfingers in the pan.
- Second Ladyfinger Layer: Dip the remaining 6 ladyfingers in the syrup and layer them over the pumpkin filling. Drizzle the remaining syrup over these ladyfingers.
- Top with Pumpkin Filling: Spread the remaining pumpkin filling evenly over the second ladyfinger layer.
- Prepare Mascarpone Topping: In a large bowl, beat mascarpone cheese and sugar with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream and continue beating until the mixture thickens and becomes light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla bean paste or extract.
- Top the Tiramisu: Spoon the mascarpone topping over the layered dessert and spread with a spatula in decorative swirls.
- Chill: Cover the dessert loosely and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Use the overhanging plastic wrap to lift the tiramisu out of the pan onto a serving platter. Neaten edges with an offset spatula. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon and, if desired, freshly grated nutmeg just before serving.
Notes
- Prepare the tiramisu up to 24 hours in advance; cover loosely and refrigerate to allow flavors to develop fully and texture to improve.
- Add cinnamon and nutmeg toppings just before serving if storing longer than a day for the freshest aroma and look.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze individual slices for up to one month.
- Thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
