Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe

Fall’s Finest: A Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe to Delight

Crafting a delightful pumpkin tiramisu brings a whimsical twist to the classic Italian dessert that will surprise your taste buds.

Layers of creamy mascarpone and spiced pumpkin blend seamlessly into a dreamy confection.

Autumn’s favorite gourd takes center stage in this elegant reimagining of a beloved treat.

Coffee-soaked ladyfingers provide a rich, complex foundation for the silky pumpkin cream.

Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg dance through each luxurious bite, creating a sensory experience that feels both comforting and indulgent.

Sweet and sophisticated, this dessert promises to become a cherished addition to your seasonal repertoire.

You won’t be able to resist another slice of this irresistible pumpkin-infused masterpiece.

Pumpkin Tiramisu: Autumn Italian Escape

  • Spice Up Your Dessert: Elevate your traditional tiramisu with a delightful pumpkin twist that brings warm, cozy autumn flavors to a classic Italian treat.
  • Quick and Simple Preparation: Craft this sophisticated dessert with minimal cooking skills, requiring just a few basic steps of mixing, layering, and chilling.
  • Perfect Party Pleaser: Impress guests with a unique dessert that combines the richness of mascarpone, the smoothness of pumpkin, and the depth of coffee in one decadent dish.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this dessert in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together and making it an ideal option for stress-free entertaining and holiday gatherings.

Tiramisu Ingredient Gathering Guide

Main Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: A smooth, sweet base that adds rich autumn flavor and creamy texture to the dessert.
  • Ladyfingers: Light and delicate sponge cookies that provide structure and absorb the coffee mixture.
  • Mascarpone Cheese: A rich, smooth Italian cream cheese that creates a luxurious and velvety dessert base.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger: Warm spices that bring depth and classic fall flavors to the tiramisu.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle sweet and aromatic note to the creamy mixture.
Liquid Components:
  • Espresso, Coffee Liqueur: A rich coffee mixture that adds depth and moisture to the ladyfingers.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides additional richness and helps create a light, fluffy texture.
Finishing Touch:
  • Cocoa Powder: A traditional dusting that adds a subtle chocolate flavor and elegant presentation.

Layer Up Pumpkin Tiramisu

Step 1: Whip Up Pumpkin Spice Base

Grab a mixing bowl and combine pumpkin puree with warm brown sugar, aromatic cinnamon, rich nutmeg, and zesty ginger.

Stir these ingredients until they create a smooth, fragrant mixture that hints at cozy autumn flavors.

Step 2: Create Creamy Mascarpone Blend

In a separate bowl, whip mascarpone cheese with velvety heavy cream and pure vanilla extract.

Beat the ingredients until they transform into a light, airy mixture with a luxurious texture that’s silky smooth.

Step 3: Merge Pumpkin And Cheese Mixtures

Carefully fold the spiced pumpkin blend into the creamy mascarpone mixture.

Use gentle, sweeping motions to maintain the airiness while creating a marbled, golden-hued filling that promises delicious complexity.

Step 4: Prepare Coffee Dipping Liquid

In a wide, shallow dish, combine cooled espresso with a splash of coffee liqueur.

This rich liquid will infuse the ladyfingers with deep, robust coffee undertones.

Step 5: Soak Ladyfingers

Quickly dunk each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they’re moistened but not soggy.

Arrange these delicate cookies in a neat, single layer across your serving dish.

Step 6: First Creamy Layer

Spread half of the pumpkin-mascarpone mixture evenly over the coffee-soaked ladyfingers.

Use a spatula to create a smooth, consistent layer that covers the entire surface.

Step 7: Create Second Cookie Layer

Add another set of coffee-dipped ladyfingers on top of the first creamy layer.

Then generously cover with the remaining pumpkin mixture, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 8: Chill And Set

Cover the tiramisu and place in the refrigerator.

Allow it to rest and set for a minimum of 4 hours, though overnight is ideal for maximum flavor development.

Step 9: Final Elegant Touch

Just before serving, dust the top with a delicate layer of cocoa powder.

This final flourish adds a beautiful contrast and a hint of bitter complexity to the sweet dessert.

Tips for Tiramisu with Pumpkin Style

  • Taste the pumpkin mixture and add more brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter dessert, especially if using unsweetened pumpkin puree.
  • Dip ladyfingers quickly in the coffee mixture to prevent them from becoming too soft or falling apart.
  • Add a pinch of salt to the mascarpone mixture to enhance the overall flavor and balance the sweetness.
  • This dessert tastes even better when prepared a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld together perfectly.
  • Use gluten-free ladyfingers or substitute with almond flour-based cookies for a celiac-friendly version.

Pumpkin Tiramisu Twists to Try

  • Gluten-Free Delight: Replace traditional ladyfingers with gluten-free ladyfingers or almond flour-based sponge cake to make the dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Dream: Swap mascarpone and heavy cream with cashew cream, use coconut whipped cream, and replace ladyfingers with dairy-free alternatives for a plant-based version.
  • Spice Lover's Version: Enhance the spice profile by adding extra cardamom, increasing cinnamon, or incorporating a pinch of cloves for a more intense autumn flavor.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and replace regular brown sugar with a reduced-sugar alternative to create a lighter dessert.

Serve Tiramisu with Festive Flair

  • Autumn Gathering Centerpiece: Create a stunning seasonal display by serving the pumpkin tiramisu on a rustic wooden board surrounded by mini pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and fall leaves for a festive thanksgiving or harvest party vibe.
  • Coffee Shop Chic: Serve each slice in a clear glass to showcase beautiful layers, topped with a light sprinkle of crushed gingersnap cookies and a delicate espresso bean for elegant presentation.
  • Holiday Dessert Bar: Pair the tiramisu with warm spiced apple cider or a shot of bourbon to complement the rich pumpkin and coffee flavors, creating a delightful after-dinner experience for guests.
  • Brunch Showstopper: Offer small individual portions in decorative espresso cups or mini mason jars, perfect for weekend brunches or casual weekend gatherings with friends and family.

Storage for Pumpkin Tiramisu Goodness

  • Place leftover tiramisu in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture absorption and flavor transfer.
  • Wrap individual portions or the entire dessert securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Avoid reheating tiramisu, as it's best enjoyed chilled. Let frozen or refrigerated tiramisu sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before serving.
  • For best texture and flavor, consume within 2-3 days of preparation. Always use a clean utensil when scooping to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make pumpkin tiramisu different from traditional tiramisu?

The key difference is the addition of pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, which give the dessert a seasonal autumn flavor profile.

  • Is coffee liqueur necessary for this recipe?

No, coffee liqueur is optional. You can skip it or substitute with additional espresso if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

  • Can I use canned or fresh pumpkin puree?

Canned pumpkin puree works best for consistent texture and flavor. If using fresh pumpkin, ensure it’s well-strained and smooth to avoid excess moisture.

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Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe

Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe


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4.6 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Silky Italian pumpkin tiramisu blends autumn’s warmth with classic dessert elegance. Rich layers of mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and spiced pumpkin cream promise a delightful seasonal indulgence you’ll savor to the last creamy bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2430 ladyfinger cookies
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) mascarpone cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled

Sweeteners and Spices:

  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Additional Flavorings:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
  • Cocoa powder (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing vessel, amalgamate pumpkin puree with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until thoroughly integrated.
  2. Using an electric mixer, whip mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until achieving a silky, aerated consistency.
  3. Delicately incorporate the pumpkin blend into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring minimal deflation of the whipped texture.
  4. Prepare a coffee infusion by blending cooled espresso with coffee liqueur in a shallow rectangular container.
  5. Swiftly immerse each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring minimal saturation, then arrange in a uniform layer within a serving vessel.
  6. Generously distribute half of the pumpkin-mascarpone cream across the ladyfinger foundation, creating an even coverage.
  7. Create a secondary layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers, then crown with the remaining pumpkin cream mixture.
  8. Seal the dessert and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, allowing flavors to meld and texture to set.
  9. Immediately prior to serving, delicately sift cocoa powder across the surface for an elegant, sophisticated finish.

Notes

  • Swap out ladyfingers for gluten-free alternatives like almond flour cookies to make the dessert celiac-friendly.
  • Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the coffee mixture for deeper, more complex flavor dimensions.
  • Ensure mascarpone and heavy cream are cold before whipping to achieve maximum volume and stability.
  • Quickly dip ladyfingers to prevent them from becoming soggy and maintaining ideal texture.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 275 kcal
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 60 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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