Description
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 24 ladyfinger cookies
– Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Directions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix until smooth.
2. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
3. Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the pumpkin mixture until fully combined.
4. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin-mascarpone mixture until smooth and fluffy.
5. In a shallow dish, combine the brewed coffee and brown sugar, stirring until sugar dissolves.
6. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy.
7. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish or individual glasses.
8. Spread half of the pumpkin cream mixture over the ladyfingers.
9. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining pumpkin cream.
10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
11. Before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Tips:
Use cold coffee to prevent ladyfingers from becoming too soggy and falling apart.
Chill the tiramisu overnight for the best flavor development and texture.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pumpkin tiramisu. First, ensure all your ingredients, especially the mascarpone and cream, are cold. Combine the pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, vanilla, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves) in a bowl, mixing until completely smooth and lump-free. In a separate, chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold the mascarpone into the pumpkin mixture until just incorporated, then fold in the whipped cream in two additions to maintain airiness. For the coffee soak, dissolve the brown sugar in the cooled, strong coffee in a shallow dish. Dip each ladyfinger for 1-2 seconds per side—any longer and they will disintegrate. Assemble in your chosen dish, starting with a layer of soaked ladyfingers, then half the cream, repeating to create two distinct layers. Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is elegant yet versatile. Serve it in a large trifle dish for a stunning centerpiece or in individual glasses for a personalized touch. Just before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. For a festive garnish, add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dollop of whipped cream, or a few delicate pirouette cookies. Pair with a cup of espresso or a dessert wine like Vin Santo.
How-to Summary
In short: Make a spiced pumpkin-mascarpone cream by folding whipped cream into a sweetened pumpkin and cheese base. Briefly dip ladyfingers in a sweet coffee mixture. Layer the soaked cookies and cream twice in a dish. Chill for at least 4 hours, then dust with cocoa powder before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. Chilling overnight is ideal for flavor and texture. Add the cocoa dusting right before serving.
Is there a substitute for mascarpone? Full-fat cream cheese can be used in a pinch, but the flavor will be tangier and the texture less rich.
Can I use fresh pumpkin? Yes, but ensure it’s cooked, pureed, and drained of excess moisture to avoid a watery tiramisu.
How do I prevent soggy ladyfingers? Use cold coffee and dip quickly—just a swift dunk on each side is sufficient.
Is this dessert gluten-free? Only if you use gluten-free ladyfingers. Traditional ladyfingers contain wheat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-whipping the heavy cream; soft peaks blend more smoothly. Do not over-mix the mascarpone filling, as it can become grainy. The most critical error is over-soaking the ladyfingers, which leads to a mushy base. Finally, do not skip the chilling time, as it is essential for the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Tiramisu is a delightful twist on a classic, merging the cozy flavors of fall with an iconic Italian dessert. Its make-ahead nature and elegant presentation make it perfect for entertaining. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a show-stopping dessert that is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich, creamy layers and the perfect balance of coffee and spice.