If you love the cozy flavors of autumn and the creamy indulgence of Italian desserts, then this Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. It beautifully marries the warming spices of pumpkin pie with the luscious layers and coffee-soaked ladyfingers classic to tiramisu. Each bite delivers a dreamy blend of silky mascarpone, rich pumpkin puree, and just the right hint of espresso and liqueur, making it a spectacular dessert to celebrate any occasion, especially in the cooler months.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe is surprisingly simple because the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a key role in crafting those irresistible layers of flavor and texture.
- Pumpkin puree: The heart of the dish, providing the smooth, spiced pumpkin flavor that sets the autumnal tone.
- Light brown sugar: Adds natural sweetness with a subtle molasses depth that enhances the pumpkin’s warmth.
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic pumpkin pie spice kick, it adds warmth and aroma.
- Ground ginger: Brings a gentle spicy note that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch to add complexity and a hint of nuttiness, rounding out the spice mix.
- Mascarpone cheese: The signature creamy richness that makes tiramisu so luxurious.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks for that airy, silky texture that lightens the pumpkin mixture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash to brighten flavors and add sweetness depth.
- Strong brewed coffee: Cooled, it’s the essential soaking liquid for the ladyfingers, lending tiramisu its iconic bittersweet foundation.
- Kahlua or Amaretto (optional): Adds a layer of boozy warmth and complexity, perfect for adult palates.
- Ladyfingers: The classic sponge biscuits that soak up the coffee and brandy mixture.
- Cocoa powder: For dusting — a final touch that introduces a hint of bitterness and makes the dessert visually stunning.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Mascarpone Mixture
Start by whisking the pumpkin puree with brown sugar and the trio of spices: cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. This blend is where the magic of pumpkin pie flavor comes alive. Then beat in the softened mascarpone until the mixture is luxuriously smooth.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This creates an airy contrast to the rich mascarpone, making the dessert light yet creamy.
Step 3: Combine Cream and Pumpkin Mixture
Gently fold in the whipped cream and vanilla extract into the pumpkin-mascarpone base. This step is crucial to keep the mixture fluffy and delicate.
Step 4: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
Pour your cooled strong brewed coffee into a shallow dish and mix in the Kahlua or Amaretto if you choose to use it. This infusion will provide the tiramisu’s signature kick.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture; a brief dunk ensures they absorb enough liquid without becoming soggy. Start with a layer of these soaked biscuits at the bottom of your serving dish or trifle bowl.
Step 6: Add Pumpkin Mascarpone Layers
Spread a generous layer of the pumpkin mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat the process, layering ladyfingers and pumpkin cream, finishing with a final thick layer of the mascarpone mixture on top.
Step 7: Dust and Chill
Sprinkle a generous dusting of cocoa powder over the top layer. Cover the tiramisu tightly and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the dessert set into creamy perfection.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting presentation, consider dusting extra cocoa powder just before serving or adding a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch and visual interest. A cinnamon stick or a dollop of whipped cream with a light sprinkle of nutmeg also ties the whole fall theme together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai or a glass of dessert wine like Vin Santo. Freshly brewed espresso works perfectly too, complementing the coffee notes in the tiramisu.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this tiramisu in individual mason jars or clear cups to show off the beautiful layers. Alternatively, use a trifle bowl to create a stunning centerpiece that invites guests to help themselves. For a festive touch, garnish with a small sprig of fresh rosemary or a light dusting of edible gold shimmer before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled and chilled, Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing any other fridge odors and to maintain that luscious moisture in the ladyfingers.
Freezing
Freezing this tiramisu is possible but not ideal as the texture can change. If you must freeze, cover it tightly and consume within a month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, although some separation might occur.
Reheating
Since tiramisu is best enjoyed cold, reheating is not recommended. However, if you prefer it closer to room temperature, remove it from the fridge about 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors bloom.
FAQs
Can I make Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe without alcohol?
Absolutely! The liqueur adds lovely warmth and depth, but you can leave it out and still enjoy a fantastic dessert with full pumpkin and coffee flavors.
What can I use instead of ladyfingers?
If you can’t find ladyfingers, sponge cake or pound cake slices make a great substitute for absorbing the coffee mixture and holding the layers together.
How long should I let the tiramisu chill?
For the best texture and flavor melding, refrigerate your Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal.
Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead?
Yes, this dessert benefits from resting overnight. The flavors deepen, and the ladyfingers become perfectly soaked, making it even better the next day.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Definitely! This version makes about 10 servings and scales up nicely if you need to serve more guests at your holiday parties or family dinners.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe captures the best of fall and comfort dessert traditions in one luscious creation. It’s a wonderful way to impress guests or treat yourself to something truly special without a fuss. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful dessert as much as I do!
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Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This Pumpkin Pie Tiramisu is a delightful seasonal twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining creamy mascarpone and spiced pumpkin puree layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Perfect for fall celebrations, this no-bake dessert features warm flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, balanced by a dusting of cocoa powder and optional notes of Kahlua or Amaretto.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Mascarpone Mixture
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coffee Mixture
- 2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2–3 tablespoons Kahlua or Amaretto (optional)
Assembly
- 24 ladyfingers
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Pumpkin Mascarpone Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg until smooth to create the flavorful base.
- Incorporate Mascarpone Cheese: Beat in the softened mascarpone cheese until fully incorporated and creamy, ensuring a rich texture.
- Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form to add lightness to the mixture.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream and vanilla extract into the pumpkin-mascarpone mixture to maintain its airy consistency.
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture: In a shallow dish, mix the cooled brewed coffee with Kahlua or Amaretto, if using, to add an adult twist and depth of flavor.
- Dip Ladyfingers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger in the coffee mixture, making sure they are moistened but not soggy, to prevent sogginess in the final dessert.
- Layer Ladyfingers: Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a glass serving dish or trifle bowl as the first component of your tiramisu.
- Add Pumpkin Mixture Layer: Spread a layer of the pumpkin mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers for creamy contrast.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the process, layering coffee-soaked ladyfingers and pumpkin mascarpone mixture, finishing with a final pumpkin layer on top.
- Dust and Chill: Generously dust the top with cocoa powder, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the Kahlua or Amaretto and replace with additional coffee or coffee-flavored syrup.
- Ensure ladyfingers are dipped briefly to avoid a soggy dessert.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead for convenience and enhanced flavor.
- Use high-quality mascarpone and freshly brewed coffee for best results.
- Keep refrigerated until serving to maintain texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
