Name: Pumpkin Tiramisu
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened); ¾ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup granulated sugar or powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1 package ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi); ¾ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled); Cocoa powder (for dusting); Optional: cinnamon or chocolate shavings for garnish

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Pumpkin Tiramisu is a luscious, no-bake dessert I love making during the fall when I want something festive, creamy, and a little indulgent. It’s a seasonal twist on the Italian classic — made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, a pumpkin-spiced mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder on top. Every bite is soft, rich, and full of cozy autumn flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this tiramisu because it blends everything I enjoy about pumpkin pie and classic tiramisu into one gorgeous dessert. It’s easy to assemble, completely no-bake, and even better when made ahead. The creamy pumpkin layer is light and smooth, while the espresso gives it a bold contrast. It’s perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or anytime I want a show-stopping dessert with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mascarpone cheese (softened)
Pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
Heavy cream
Granulated sugar or powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Pumpkin pie spice
Ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)
Brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
Cocoa powder (for dusting)
Optional: cinnamon or chocolate shavings for garnish

Directions

I start by whipping the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then set it aside.
In another bowl, I beat together mascarpone, pumpkin purée, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
I gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture to create a light, fluffy filling.
I quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso — just enough to soak, but not too long to make them soggy.
I layer the soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a baking dish or trifle bowl.
I spread a layer of the pumpkin mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
I repeat the layers, finishing with the creamy topping.
I cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours or overnight — the longer it chills, the better the texture.
Just before serving, I dust the top with cocoa powder and garnish if I want.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 8–10 people. It takes 20 minutes to prep and at least 4 hours to chill, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.

Variations

I sometimes add a splash of dark rum, bourbon, or coffee liqueur to the espresso for a boozy version.
For extra crunch, I sprinkle crushed ginger snaps or chopped pecans between the layers.
I’ve made a dairy-free version using whipped coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
A dash of maple syrup in the filling adds even more fall flavor.
I occasionally make it in individual cups for easy serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store this dessert in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. Since it’s no-bake, it doesn’t need reheating. In fact, the texture improves as it sits. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the creamy layers can separate after thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes — I always make it the day before so it has plenty of time to set and let the flavors meld.

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

Yes, I’ve done it with softened cream cheese. The flavor is slightly tangier, but still delicious.

What can I use if I don’t have ladyfingers?

I’ve used pound cake or sponge cake cut into strips. They work well, just soak them lightly in the coffee.

Is canned pumpkin okay?

Absolutely — I always use pure canned pumpkin purée for convenience. Just make sure it’s not the sweetened pie filling.

Can I skip the coffee?

If I want a kid-friendly version or don’t like coffee, I dip the ladyfingers in milk or chai tea for a flavorful alternative.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Tiramisu is a dreamy, layered dessert that brings fall flavors to the forefront in such an elegant way. It’s easy to make, looks impressive, and tastes even better the next day. Whether I’m hosting a holiday dinner or just craving something sweet and spiced, this dessert is always a seasonal favorite in my kitchen.