This pumpkin tiramisu is a fun twist on the classic dessert! It’s creamy, fluffy, and has a hint of spice that brings in the flavors of fall.
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just layer the ingredients and let it chill. The hardest part is waiting to eat it! Pumpkin lovers, this one’s for you! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is perfect for this recipe as it’s smooth and ready to go. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use homemade pumpkin puree from a roasted pumpkin, just ensure it’s well-pureed.
Cream Cheese: I recommend full-fat cream cheese for the best rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, Neufchâtel cheese is a good swap. It offers slightly fewer calories with a similar taste.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds fluffiness to the dessert. If you need a non-dairy option, coconut cream can work, but it will bring a subtle coconut flavor to the tiramisu.
Coffee: Brewed coffee gives this dessert its signature flavor. If you prefer a caffeine-free option, you can use decaf coffee or even strong brewed tea. However, the taste will differ from the classic tiramisu.
Ladyfingers: Savoiardi cookies are the classic choice. If you can’t find them, you can use sponge cake cut into strips or even shortbread cookies, though they might change the final texture a bit.
How Can I Ensure My Whipped Cream Is Perfectly Fluffy?
Whipping cream correctly is crucial for achieving lightness in tiramisu. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with cold heavy cream. If possible, chill the mixing bowl and beaters for about 15 minutes before whipping.
- Use an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beating until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn grainy.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into your pumpkin mixture using a spatula. This keeps the air in the cream for a lighter dessert.
Following these steps will give your tiramisu a lovely creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the flavor of pumpkin spices. Happy cooking!
How to Make Pumpkin Tiramisu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cream Mixture:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
For the Coffee Layer:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
For Layering:
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pumpkin tiramisu will take about 30 minutes to prepare. After that, you’ll need to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. So, plan to make it a day ahead for the best results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Mixture:
Start by beating the cream cheese and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until it’s nice and smooth. This step is important for a creamy texture!
2. Flavor it Up:
Now, add in the pumpkin puree along with the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Mix everything together until it’s completely blended and has a lovely fall flavor.
3. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until you reach stiff peaks. This means the cream should hold its shape when you lift the beaters out. It’s what gives your tiramisu that fluffy texture!
4. Combine the Mixtures:
Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin and cream cheese mixture. Do this slowly so you don’t deflate the whipped cream; you want it to stay light and airy!
5. Coffee Layer:
In a shallow dish, mix the brewed coffee with the coffee liqueur if you’re using it. This will be used to dip the ladyfingers and add a delicious coffee flavor!
6. Dip the Ladyfingers:
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture. Make sure to just dip them — you don’t want them to soak too long, or they’ll get too soggy!
7. Assemble the Layers:
Start layering by placing a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of your serving dish. After that, spread half of the pumpkin cream mixture over the ladyfingers evenly.
8. Repeat Layering:
Next, place another layer of dipped ladyfingers on top of the cream layer, followed by the remaining pumpkin cream mixture.
9. Top it Off:
If you have any remaining whipped cream, spread it evenly on top. This gives a nice finish and adds more creaminess!
10. Chill Out:
Cover your dish and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours. For the best flavor, let it chill overnight. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together!
11. Finish with Cocoa:
Just before serving, dust the top of your tiramisu with some unsweetened cocoa powder for that classic finish!
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your pumpkin tiramisu and serve it chilled. Enjoy this creamy, spiced delight that’s perfect for fall gatherings or dessert any day of the week!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! To make it, roast a small pumpkin until tender, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth. Just ensure it’s well-pureed and not too watery for the best results.
How Will This Tiramisu Hold Up After Making?
This pumpkin tiramisu is best enjoyed within 3-4 days after making. Store it covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh, but it may start to lose its texture if kept longer.
Can I Make This Tiramisu Without Coffee?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use coffee, try substituting it with strong brewed tea or even warm milk. Just be mindful that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Ladyfingers?
If you can’t find ladyfingers, sponge cake or pound cake cut into strips will work as a substitute. Just make sure they’re firm enough to hold up in the layers!
