Fall brings special opportunities to experiment in your kitchen, and you deserve a dessert that’s both impressive and easy. According to Lisa Keys, Food Network Chopped Champion and award-winning home cook, “Some of the best dishes are born when you fully embrace the season.” As the voice behind Good Grief Cook and Joyful Crumbs, Lisa shares her expertise so you can create memorable, delicious moments.
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering, Lisa insists Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu is the way to go. She tells us, “This isn’t just another pumpkin dessert—it’s an experience. Rich, sophisticated, and surprisingly simple to prepare.”
Lisa wants everyone to focus on balance: “The key is marrying the bold espresso flavor with the gentle sweetness of pumpkin and mascarpone.” The result? A treat that feels indulgent but still light, ideal after a hearty holiday meal. Let’s dive into how you can make it.
Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu
Image Credit: Lisa Keys.
Lisa designs this recipe for make-ahead convenience, letting you relax when your guests arrive. “Giving the tiramisu time overnight allows the flavors to truly meld,” she assures. Here’s what you’ll need and how to bring it all together.
Ingredients
- 1 cup prepared espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie syrup
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 (16 oz.) container mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup drained pumpkin puree
- 1 (7 oz.) package ladyfingers
Instructions
- Prep the Espresso: Mix cooled espresso and pumpkin pie syrup in a shallow dish.
- Make the Spiced Sugar: Combine sugar with pumpkin pie spice. Lisa suggests, “Reserve ½ teaspoon for sprinkling over the top at the end.”
- Create the Pumpkin Filling: Whisk the remaining spiced sugar with mascarpone and drained pumpkin puree until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the First Layer: Set aside one ladyfinger for garnish. Dip the others in espresso mixture quickly, letting excess drip off, then layer them in the bottom of a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Add the Filling: Spread a third of the pumpkin mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering dipped ladyfingers and pumpkin filling, finishing with pumpkin on top.
- Create the Topping: Crush the reserved ladyfingers with the reserved spiced sugar in a plastic bag and sprinkle over your tiramisu.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate at least 8 hours, or overnight.
- Serve: Add any desired garnish right before serving.
Lisa’s Champion Tips for Success
To help your tiramisu turn out perfect every time, Lisa offers these expert strategies:
- Drain the Pumpkin: “Don’t skip draining the pumpkin puree,” Lisa advises. “It’s the secret to a thick, creamy filling that isn’t watery.” Just set the puree on a few paper towels to wick away excess moisture before measuring.
- Prepare in Advance: You can make this dessert up to two days ahead. “The longer it sits, the better the flavors become,” Lisa notes.
- Add Texture and Color: Lisa loves to top her tiramisu with candied pecans and pomegranate seeds. She says, “The crunch and the burst of tartness create a wonderful contrast to the creamy tiramisu, making every bite more interesting.”
Let This Be Your Holiday Centerpiece
When you make Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu, you’re not just following a recipe—you’re bringing warmth, style, and the joy of sharing to your table. It’s easy, make-ahead preparation frees you up to enjoy what really matters.
As Lisa sums it up: “The holidays are about spending time with your loved ones. I hope you and your family enjoy this taste of fall as much as I do.”
