As I sifted through my pantry this fall, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of pumpkin puree just waiting to be transformed into something wonderful. That’s when the idea for this Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu struck me. What could be more perfect for cozy gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or simply indulging in the autumn spirit? This no-bake dessert effortlessly combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with the creamy richness of mascarpone, layered over coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Not only is it a showstopper that will impress your friends and family, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it a perfect fit for those busy days. Are you ready to bring a touch of warmth and sweetness to your holiday table with this delightful treat? Let’s dive in!

Why Will You Fall in Love?

Indulgent: The Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu offers a rich and velvety texture that’s simply irresistible, making it a standout dessert for any gathering.
Seasonal Delight: Featuring the warm, inviting flavors of pumpkin spice, this recipe embodies the essence of fall.
No-Bake Convenience: Effortlessly prepare this dessert without turning on the oven, leaving you more time to enjoy festive activities.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique twist on classic tiramisu will wow your guests and spark delightful conversations at the dessert table.
Versatile Serving: Pair it with a warm spiced latte or a cup of espresso for an extra touch of comfort—truly a match made in dessert heaven!

Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu Ingredients

• Delightful and seasonal, this creamy pumpkin tiramisu will elevate your dessert game!

For the Pumpkin Filling

Mascarpone Cheese – Adds a rich, creamy base, and should be at room temperature for easy mixing.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile and adds a warm note.
Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; opt for canned or homemade, but steer clear of fresh to prevent excess liquid.
Granulated Sugar – Balances the sweetness perfectly.
Brown Sugar – Introduces a caramel-like depth to the dessert.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses an autumn essence; feel free to craft a homemade version if needed.
Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor.

For the Whipped Cream

Heavy Cream – Must be cold for the lightest texture, making the dessert airy and indulgent.

For the Ladyfinger Layers

Ladyfingers – The classic base providing structure; store-bought is a time-saver, but homemade can add a personal touch.

For Soaking

Coffee (espresso or strong coffee) – Imparts a rich flavor to the ladyfingers; instant coffee can be a convenient alternative.
Liqueur (optional) – Adds a sophisticated twist to your creamy pumpkin tiramisu; consider Italian liqueurs like amaretto for a special touch.

Now that you have all the essentials for this wonderful dessert, it’s time to create something beautiful and delicious that your loved ones will remember long after the last crumb has been enjoyed!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee
Brew a strong cup of espresso or coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. Ensure you have about 1 to 1.5 cups ready for soaking the ladyfingers. While the coffee cools, gather your mixing bowls and whisk to prepare for the delicious layers of your creamy pumpkin tiramisu.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, kosher salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients until smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This mixture forms the lavish filling for your creamy pumpkin tiramisu, so ensure it’s free of lumps.

Step 3: Incorporate the Pumpkin Puree
Gently fold in the pumpkin puree into the mascarpone mixture with a spatula until fully incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and well-blended; the vibrant orange hue from the pumpkin will bring a festive color to your dessert. This step is crucial as it amplifies the pumpkin flavor in the creamy pumpkin tiramisu.

Step 4: Whip the Heavy Cream
In a separate chill bowl, pour in the cold heavy cream. Using electric beaters, whip the cream on medium speed until it holds soft peaks, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to over-whip; you want it fluffy and airy. This step adds lightness to the pumpkin mixture, creating a delightful texture.

Step 5: Combine the Cream and Pumpkin Mixture
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mascarpone mixture with a spatula. Use a slow and steady motion to combine without deflating the whipped cream. This step creates the luxurious and creamy filling that makes your creamy pumpkin tiramisu irresistibly delicious!

Step 6: Dip the Ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee, making sure not to soak them for more than 1-2 seconds. You want them moist but not soggy. Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of a 13×9 inch baking dish. This forms the base layer, soaking up the rich flavors of the coffee.

Step 7: Layer the Filling
Spread half of the creamy pumpkin filling over the layer of soaked ladyfingers, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. This layer should be thick, embracing the ladyfingers below. Prepare for another layer of ladyfingers to create a delightful balance between the creamy and coffee-soaked textures.

Step 8: Add Another Layer of Ladyfingers
Repeat the process by dipping more ladyfingers briefly in the coffee and placing them in a single layer on top of the pumpkin filling. This additional layer will elevate the structure of your creamy pumpkin tiramisu, ensuring it’s rich and beautifully layered.

Step 9: Top it Off
Pipe or dollop the remaining pumpkin filling over the second layer of ladyfingers, creating a beautiful and tempting finish. Spread it evenly, making sure the creamy pumpkin filling peaks slightly in places. This will be the eye-catching finale to your dessert, showcasing its creamy allure.

Step 10: Chill and Set
Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors of the creamy pumpkin tiramisu to meld together. For the best taste and texture, consider letting it sit overnight. This waiting period ensures a wonderfully cohesive dessert when served.

Step 11: Finish with Cocoa Powder
Before serving, uncover the tiramisu and generously dust the top with cocoa powder using a fine sieve. This final touch adds a hint of bitterness, perfectly balancing the sweetness of your creamy pumpkin tiramisu and enhancing its stunning presentation.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your beautifully layered creamy pumpkin tiramisu into squares and serve chilled, perhaps alongside a warm spiced latte or espresso. Each bite promises a delightful blend of creamy, spiced, and coffee flavors, making it a showstopper at any festive gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu

Fridge: Store the creamy pumpkin tiramisu tightly covered with plastic wrap for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to continue melding while keeping the dessert fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tiramisu without cocoa powder for up to 2 months. Once frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Reheating: This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just slice and serve directly from the fridge for the perfect indulgence!

What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu

Looking to elevate your dessert experience with the perfect accompaniments?

Espresso or Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of espresso enhances the tiramisu’s coffee-soaked layers, creating a delightful harmony.
Spiced Latte: A warm spiced latte complements the pumpkin flavors, adding cozy vibes that make every bite comforting.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch, alongside the creamy pumpkin richness for a decadent experience.
Chocolate Shavings: Adding chocolate shavings fills your dessert with a hint of indulgence while balancing the sweetness with a cocoa twist, making it irresistible.
Candied Pecans: These provide a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor, contrasting beautifully with the creamy layers and pumpkin spice.
Seasonal Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with apples and pears offers brightness and acidity that contrasts the richness of the tiramisu, refreshing each bite.

Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and elevate your Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu to your family’s taste!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ladyfingers for a gluten-friendly dessert that everyone can enjoy.
Cream Cheese Swap: Replace mascarpone with cream cheese for a tangy twist—think of it as a pumpkin cheesecake tiramisu!
Dairy-Free Delight: Opt for vegan cream cheese and coconut cream to craft a dairy-free version that still delights the senses.
Spice It Up: Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or even cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that surprises and excites the palate.
Chocolate Drizzle: Warm a bit of chocolate to drizzle over the top before serving for a decadent touch that’ll elevate your dessert game.
Coffee Alternatives: Swap out regular coffee for chai or pumpkin spice-flavored coffee for a unique flavor profile that perfectly matches fall vibes.
Liqueur Variations: Choose different liqueurs for soaking, like hazelnut or Irish cream, for an unexpected but delightful flavor twist!

Remember to take a look at related recipes like the Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu for more delightful variations that bring seasonal flavors to life. You might also enjoy pairing your dessert with a rich cup of Cajun Shrimp Sauce for a full dining experience your guests will remember!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the mascarpone filling and dip the ladyfingers in coffee up to 24 hours in advance, storing the layered dessert in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its creamy texture and prevent the ladyfingers from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply dust the top with cocoa powder, and it will be just as delicious as if it were made fresh that day. Preparing ahead not only enhances the flavors but also allows you to enjoy more time with loved ones.

Expert Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu

Room Temperature Cheese: Ensure mascarpone cheese is at room temperature to mix easily and avoid lumps in your creamy pumpkin tiramisu.
Quick Dipping: Limit the time ladyfingers are dipped in coffee to 1-2 seconds to prevent sogginess and maintain their structure.
Chill Overnight: For the best flavor, let the tiramisu sit in the fridge overnight before serving so that the flavors meld beautifully.
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients, especially the coffee and chocolate, as they make a significant difference in the overall taste of the creamy pumpkin tiramisu.
Serving Presentation: When dusting cocoa powder, use a fine sieve for an even layer, enhancing the visual appeal and flavor balance.

Creamy Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin puree for my tiramisu?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for canned pumpkin puree, which is consistently smooth and has the right moisture content. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade puree can work too, but make sure to drain any excess liquid, as fresh pumpkin tends to be watery. Look for pure pumpkin without additives on the label to ensure a clean flavor.

How should I store leftover creamy pumpkin tiramisu?
Very! You can store the creamy pumpkin tiramisu in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and prevent any fridge odors from affecting its flavor. If you plan to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option too!

Can I freeze my pumpkin tiramisu, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, omit the cocoa powder topping and tightly cover the tiramisu in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, dust with cocoa powder before serving to give it a fresh look!

What should I do if my whipped cream turns out too runny?
Oh no, it happens! If your whipped cream is runny, you can try chilling it for a few minutes in the fridge before re-whipping it. Additionally, you could add a tablespoon of powdered sugar or cornstarch during re-whipping, which helps stabilize the cream. Be cautious not to over-whip, as it can quickly turn into butter!

Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies or vegans?
Good question! This recipe isn’t dairy-friendly due to the mascarpone and heavy cream. However, you can easily adapt it by using vegan cream cheese or coconut cream as substitutes for the mascarpone and a plant-based heavy cream alternative. For the ladyfingers, look for vegan options or make your own using egg-free recipes for a delightful dairy-free version.

Can I use a different type of liqueur or leave it out?
Definitely! If you prefer not to use liqueur, simply skip it or substitute with an equivalent amount of vanilla extract for flavor enhancement. You could also use a non-alcoholic coffee syrup if you want to retain a bit of that depth without the alcohol. The more the merrier—tailor it to your taste!