Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spice as the weather cools down, but when you combine them with the beloved Italian classic, you get a showstopping dessert everyone will rave about: Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu. This dreamy, layered dessert balances the warmth of spiced pumpkin mascarpone with coffee-soaked ladyfingers for a bite that feels both luxurious and comforting. Whether you’re planning a big family gathering or simply want a decadent treat to savor with your afternoon coffee, Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu will quickly become your new favorite way to celebrate the season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu is in its simple, carefully selected ingredients: each one brings the perfect flavor, texture, or color that makes this dessert unforgettable. Let’s break them down so you start out set up for absolute success!

• Mascarpone cheese: This rich, Italian cheese creates a silky, creamy base and brings that signature tiramisu decadence.
• Pumpkin puree: Adds a touch of earthy sweetness and gives the tiramisu its unmistakable autumn hue.
• Heavy cream: Whipped in to lighten the filling, it gives every bite an airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated sugar: Balances the pumpkin and spice, keeping the filling sweet but not cloying.
• Brown sugar: Brings caramel notes that round out the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
• Pumpkin pie spice: It’s not pumpkin season without this cozy blend—it’s the secret to that classic “fall” taste.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the filling.
• Kosher salt: Just a pinch brightens all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
• Ladyfingers: These sponge biscuits soak up the coffee and provide hidden layers of soft, cake-like goodness.
• Coffee (espresso or strong coffee): That unmistakable tiramisu flavor comes from deeply-flavored coffee—let it cool before using.
• Cocoa powder: Dusting the top makes the finished dessert look as irresistible as it tastes.

How to Make 

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee

Start by brewing a big batch of strong espresso or robust coffee. Using good coffee really does make a difference here, since it’s the backbone for those soaked ladyfingers. Let the coffee cool for a few minutes—you want it room temperature, so it seeps in without making the biscuits mushy.

Step 2: Mix the Mascarpone Cream

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, kosher salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Use an electric hand mixer to get everything silky smooth and evenly combined—you’re creating the luxuriously creamy core of your Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu.

Step 3: Add the Pumpkin Puree

Now, scoop in the pumpkin puree. Gently stir or beat it until it’s fully blended into your mascarpone mixture. The goal here is a filling that’s creamy, dreamy, and glowing with pumpkin color.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

Pour the cold heavy cream into your pumpkin-mascarpone base and mix for 3-4 minutes. The texture should get thick and billowy—think soft peaks, not stiff. This step gives your dessert its unforgettable, cloud-like mouthfeel.

Step 5: Assemble the Tiramisu

Take each ladyfinger and give it a very quick dip (just 1-2 seconds, no more!) in your cooled coffee. Arrange them in a single snug layer in the bottom of a 13 by 9 inch baking dish. You want them saturated but still structurally sound—this is what holds your Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu together.

Step 6: Add the Mascarpone Filling

Spread half of the pumpkin mascarpone mixture gently over your coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Smooth it out to cover every bit. Add another layer of dunked ladyfingers, then pile on the rest of your filling. For an especially elegant look, use a piping bag for that final layer of cream.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better). This time is crucial—the ladyfingers soften, and all the wonderful flavors marry together into a dessert that’s pure bliss.

Step 8: Top and Serve

Just before you’re ready to serve, give your Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu a generous dusting of cocoa powder right over the top. This finishes it off with a classic tiramisu look and adds a slightly bitter note that ties everything together.

How to Serve 

Garnishes

Dress up your Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu by sprinkling extra pumpkin pie spice across the top or adding a swirl of whipped cream and a few toasted pepitas for crunch. A drizzle of caramel sauce or even some dark chocolate shavings will give this dessert an extra wow factor, especially for special occasions.

Side Dishes

Since Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu is decadent and packed with flavor, it shines next to a fresh fruit salad—think sliced pears, crisp apples, or a handful of tart berries for a refreshing contrast. For coffee lovers, serve it with hot espresso or chai tea to keep those autumnal flavors going strong.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to have fun with the presentation! You can assemble individual portions in clear glasses for a beautiful, layered look, or use a trifle dish to make a dramatic centerpiece. For a rustic gathering, try small mason jars, or cut the chilled tiramisu into neat slices and top each with a decorative touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu keeps surprisingly well—just cover your pan tightly with plastic wrap or slide individual slices into airtight containers. The dessert will stay luscious and fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, with the flavors deepening over time.

Freezing

If you want to savor Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu later, freezing is an option. Wrap it securely in plastic and another layer of foil, then freeze for up to a month. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before serving so it keeps its creamy texture.

Reheating

You won’t need to reheat this dessert, as Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu is best served chilled! But if your tiramisu has been stored at a very cold temperature (like from the freezer), just let it rest in the fridge until it softens back to the perfect, creamy state.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this dessert is even better made in advance. Assemble everything the day before your event and chill overnight to allow the flavors to develop fully before serving.

What can I use if I don’t have ladyfingers?

If you can’t find ladyfingers, don’t worry. Thin slices of plain sponge cake or even graham crackers can stand in—the key is to use something that will soak up the coffee without falling apart.

How do I prevent the tiramisu from getting soggy?

The trick is to dip the ladyfingers in coffee very quickly—just a second or two on each side. If they’re left in the coffee for too long, they’ll become too soft and make the dessert runny.

Can I make Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu with gluten-free ingredients?

Yes! You can use gluten-free ladyfingers or even gluten-free sponge cake to keep this dessert gluten-free. All the other filling ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Is it possible to make a lighter version?

Of course. Use low-fat mascarpone and lighten up on the sugar if desired. While the texture may be slightly less rich, you’ll still have plenty of that tasty fall flavor in every bite.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that brings both comfort and a little celebration to your table, Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu is your answer. The combination of autumn spices, creamy layers, and coffee-soaked biscuits is a true crowd-pleaser. I hope you’ll give it a try—and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new seasonal tradition!

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