Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups
Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups are the perfect way to celebrate the cozy flavors of fall in an elegant, individual dessert. Combining the rich creaminess of mascarpone with the warm notes of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice, these cups are a delightful twist on the classic Italian tiramisu. Made with brewed coffee, pumpkin puree, and ladyfinger cookies, this dessert is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or craving a seasonal treat, these cups are guaranteed to impress with their luscious layers and aromatic spices.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Seasonal Flavor Fusion: The classic tiramisu gets a cozy makeover with pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, capturing the essence of autumn.
- Individual Portions: Served in cups, these tiramisus are perfect for easy serving and make a beautiful presentation.
- Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples like coffee, mascarpone, and ladyfingers, this recipe is both accessible and quick to assemble.
- Creamy & Light: Whipped heavy cream adds a fluffy texture that balances the richness of mascarpone and the slight bitterness of coffee.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these cups in advance and chill for a few hours to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Ingredient Checklist
- 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled – Choose a bold coffee for a robust flavor base.
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree – Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for that perfect fall aroma.
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese – The creamy heart of tiramisu, lending richness and smoothness.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Whipped to soft peaks for a light, airy texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cream mixture evenly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the filling.
- 24 ladyfinger cookies – The classic sponge cookie that soaks up coffee beautifully.
- Cocoa powder for dusting – Finishing touch for a bit of bitterness and contrast.
What’s in the Gear List
- Mixing bowls – For whipping cream and blending mascarpone mixture.
- Electric mixer or whisk – To whip the heavy cream to soft peaks.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
- Serving cups or glasses – To assemble individual tiramisu portions.
- Sieve or fine mesh strainer – For dusting cocoa powder evenly.
- Spoon or spatula – For spreading layers smoothly.
Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups: How It’s Done
Step 1: Brew and Cool the Coffee
Start by brewing 1 cup of your favorite coffee. Let it cool completely before using it to soak the ladyfinger cookies. This prevents the cookies from becoming soggy too quickly and helps maintain the perfect texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Mascarpone Mixture
In a bowl, combine 1 cup mascarpone cheese, 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream
Using an electric mixer or a whisk, whip 1 cup of heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mascarpone mixture, creating a light and fluffy filling that will melt in your mouth.
Step 4: Assemble the Tiramisu Cups
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee, just enough to soak but not to become mushy. Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each serving cup. Spoon a generous layer of the pumpkin mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat the layers, finishing with the cream on top.
Step 5: Chill and Dust
Refrigerate the assembled Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Just before serving, dust each cup with cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve to add a touch of classic tiramisu flavor and an elegant finish.
Seasonal Twists
- Add a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans between the layers for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Swap the ladyfinger cookies with Chocolate Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes cut into small pieces for a richer, more decadent dessert.
- Incorporate a drizzle of caramel sauce on top before chilling for a sweet, buttery contrast.
- Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation.
Cook’s Commentary
The beauty of Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups lies in their versatility and ease. The recipe balances the bold bitterness of coffee with the smooth sweetness of pumpkin and creamy mascarpone. When making the coffee soak, be careful not to over-soak the ladyfingers—they should be moist but still hold their shape.
For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the texture will be less rich. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or a glass of spiced apple cider.
Shelf Life & Storage
- Store the tiramisu cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For best texture, consume within 24-48 hours as ladyfingers may become overly soggy over time.
- Do not freeze, as the texture of the cream and cookies will degrade.
- If prepping ahead, assemble the cream mixture and coffee-soaked ladyfingers separately, then combine just before serving.
Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups Q&A
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Yes! Simply dissolve 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules in 1 cup of hot water and let it cool. This works just as well for soaking the ladyfingers.
Is it necessary to chill the tiramisu cups overnight?
While chilling for at least 4 hours is sufficient to let the flavors meld, chilling overnight enhances the texture and depth of flavor, making it even more delicious.
Can I substitute mascarpone with cream cheese?
You can, but mascarpone has a lighter, creamier texture and a milder flavor. If using cream cheese, soften it well and consider blending it with a little heavy cream to mimic mascarpone’s consistency.
How can I make the Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups dairy-free?
Try swapping mascarpone and heavy cream for dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and a vegan cream cheese. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Quick Weeknight Wins
- For another seasonal favorite, try making Classic Pumpkin Pie for a traditional dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Looking for a smaller snack? Chocolate Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes offer a quick, festive treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee.
- Whip up a batch of spiced pumpkin muffins for an easy grab-and-go breakfast or dessert.
- Try a pumpkin spice latte at home to complement these tiramisu cups for the ultimate fall indulgence.
Bring It Home
Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups are a showstopping dessert that’s perfect for sharing the flavors of fall with friends and family. Their individual servings make them ideal for parties, gatherings, or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening. The marriage of pumpkin spice with creamy mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers creates a harmony of flavors that’s comforting and sophisticated. Next time you crave a seasonal twist on a classic, these cups will be your go-to recipe. Enjoy the warmth, spice, and creamy delight all in one bite!
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Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by brewing 1 cup of your favorite coffee. Let it cool completely before using it to soak the ladyfinger cookies. This prevents the cookies from becoming soggy too quickly and helps maintain the perfect texture.
- In a bowl, combine 1 cup mascarpone cheese, 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using an electric mixer or a whisk, whip 1 cup of heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mascarpone mixture, creating a light and fluffy filling that will melt in your mouth.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee, just enough to soak but not to become mushy. Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each serving cup. Spoon a generous layer of the pumpkin mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat the layers, finishing with the cream on top.
- Refrigerate the assembled Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Cups for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Just before serving, dust each cup with cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve to add a touch of classic tiramisu flavor and an elegant finish.
Notes
- Do not over-soak the ladyfingers; they should be moist but still hold their shape for the best texture.
- Store the tiramisu cups covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute mascarpone and heavy cream with vegan alternatives like coconut cream.
- Add toasted pecans or caramel drizzle for delicious seasonal twists.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavor depth and texture but 4 hours is sufficient if short on time.
