Creamy Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert that brings in all the cozy flavors of fall. Imagine layers of fluffy mascarpone cream mixed with pumpkin puree, gently spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of cloves, all nestled between coffee-soaked ladyfingers. It’s smooth, creamy, and just sweet enough to satisfy your dessert cravings without being too heavy.
I absolutely love making this during the cooler months when pumpkin spice feels like the perfect hug in a dish. What makes this tiramisu extra special to me is how the pumpkin adds a subtle warmth and richness that pairs so well with the boldness of the coffee. I like to let it chill overnight because the flavors really meld together and the texture becomes beautifully soft and luscious.
This dessert is perfect for sharing with friends and family during holiday dinners or as a cozy weekend treat. I’ve found it’s also a great way to impress guests who might not expect pumpkin and tiramisu to work so well together. Serve it with a light dusting of cocoa powder on top, maybe a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a cup of strong coffee or tea to round out the experience. It’s a comforting, festive dessert that always gets compliments!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: I use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but homemade works great too. If you want a twist, sweet potato puree is a nice substitute and adds natural sweetness.
Mascarpone Cheese: This gives tiramisu its signature creamy texture. If you can’t find it, cream cheese softened with a little heavy cream can work, but mascarpone is best for authentic flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipping cream creates lightness in the pumpkin mixture. For a lighter option, try using half-and-half, but the texture won’t be quite as fluffy.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: A ready blend makes it easy. Alternatively, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves for fresh flavor. Adjust to taste if you prefer stronger spice notes.
Ladyfingers: These delicate cookies soak up coffee without falling apart too fast. If you can’t find ladyfingers, use sponge cake or pound cake slices for a similar effect.
How Do I Avoid Soggy Ladyfingers When Soaking Them?
Getting the perfect coffee soak is key—too much liquid, and ladyfingers get mushy; too little, and they won’t have flavor. Here’s my simple trick:
- Pour coffee (and liqueur if using) into a shallow dish.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger just 1-2 seconds per side. They should be moist but still hold their shape.
- Work fast and don’t let them sit in the liquid. The soaking happens quickly due to their sponge texture.
- If they get soggy easily, try using colder coffee or chilling ladyfingers before soaking.
This way, you get moist, flavorful layers without any mushy spots, which keeps your tiramisu’s texture delightful.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I like having a few to whisk mascarpone, pumpkin, and cream separately for easy folding.
- Electric mixer or whisk – makes whipping the cream quick and light without lumps.
- Shallow dish – perfect for dipping ladyfingers evenly in the coffee mixture.
- 8×8-inch baking dish or similar – holds the layers nicely and fits in the fridge for chilling.
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer – helps dust cocoa powder evenly on top for a pretty finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace pumpkin with sweet potato puree for a sweeter, mellow flavor that pairs well with spices.
- Add a sprinkle of ground cardamom to the pumpkin cream for a warm, floral twist.
- Use chocolate liqueur instead of coffee liqueur to deepen the dessert’s chocolate notes.
- Layer in chopped toasted pecans for a crunchy texture contrast and nutty flavor.
Creamy Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- About 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 20 minutes preparing this creamy pumpkin spice tiramisu. After assembling, it needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is best to let the flavors come together perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pumpkin Cream:
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, mascarpone cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice until you have a smooth and creamy mixture.
2. Whip the Cream:
In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This means the cream holds its shape when you lift the beaters.
3. Combine Pumpkin and Whipped Cream:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin-mascarpone mixture. Mix carefully to keep it light and fluffy.
4. Prepare the Coffee Dip:
In a shallow dish, mix the cooled brewed coffee with coffee liqueur if you’re using it. This will be used to soak the ladyfingers.
5. Assemble the Tiramisu:
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture; don’t soak them too long to avoid sogginess. Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers on the bottom of an 8×8 inch or similar dish. Spread half of the pumpkin cream over the ladyfingers.
6. Add More Layers:
Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then spread the remaining pumpkin cream mixture evenly on top. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for that perfect finish.
Enjoy this creamy, spiced autumn treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Pumpkin Puree?
Yes! Just thaw it completely in the fridge or at room temperature before using. Drain any excess liquid if it seems watery to keep the tiramisu creamy.
What Can I Substitute for Mascarpone Cheese?
If mascarpone isn’t available, you can mix equal parts cream cheese and heavy cream for a similar texture, but mascarpone provides the best authentic flavor and creaminess.
How Long Should I Chill the Tiramisu?
At least 4 hours is needed for it to set properly, but overnight chilling is ideal because it lets the flavors meld beautifully and the texture becomes silky smooth.
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Prepare and assemble the tiramisu a day ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge and dust with cocoa powder just before serving to maintain freshness.
