Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, perfect for cozy fall gatherings. This recipe marries the warmth of pumpkin spice with the rich creaminess of mascarpone cheese to create a dessert that's both comforting and indulgent.
Coffee and coffee liqueur are used to soak the ladyfingers, giving the dessert its signature flavor. Eggs form the base of the creamy filling, while granulated sugar adds sweetness. Mascarpone cheese provides a luxurious texture, and canned pumpkin puree brings in that autumnal twist. Vanilla extract and pumpkin pie spice enhance the overall flavor profile. Ladyfingers create the structure of the tiramisu. Unsweetened cocoa powder and shaved chocolate add a touch of bitterness and elegance on top. Finally, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon ties all the flavors together.
This dessert pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg. For an extra indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A glass of dessert wine or a steaming mug of chai tea makes a perfect accompaniment.
Start by brewing your coffee. Once it's ready, mix in the coffee liqueur, and let this mixture cool. It's important that it's not hot, or it might make the ladyfingers soggy.
Next, take a bowl and whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture is pale and thick. This might take a few minutes, but it's worth it for the creamy texture you'll get.
Fold the mascarpone cheese, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice into the yolk mixture until it's smooth. Take your time here to ensure everything is well combined.
In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This will take a bit of elbow grease, but it's crucial for the lightness of your tiramisu. Gently fold these into your mascarpone mixture, being careful not to deflate them.
Now, take each ladyfinger and briefly dip it into the coffee mixture. You want them to absorb some flavor but not fall apart. Layer half of these at the bottom of your 9x9 inch dish.
Spread half of your mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out with a spatula. Repeat the process with the remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture.
Finish by dusting the top with cocoa powder. Sprinkle with shaved chocolate and a pinch of cinnamon for that extra festive touch. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for the flavors to meld.