No Bake Pumpkin Tiramisu is the perfect fall twist on the classic Italian dessert. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy pumpkin mascarpone filling come together to create a light, elegant treat that tastes like a cross between pumpkin pie and traditional tiramisu. It’s rich, airy, and full of cozy seasonal flavors.
I first made this dessert when I wanted something easy but still special for Thanksgiving. It turned out to be a huge hit the pumpkin gives the mascarpone filling a smooth, velvety texture and the spices make it taste like fall in every bite. It’s simple to prepare, requires no baking, and looks absolutely beautiful on the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking or complicated steps required
- Creamy, spiced filling with espresso-soaked layers
- Perfect for Thanksgiving, fall parties, or cozy nights in
- Make-ahead dessert that gets even better after chilling
- Light, elegant, and full of pumpkin flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream, cold
- 8 oz (225 g) mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves mix)
- 1 cup (240 ml) brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur or rum (optional)
- 24 to 30 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- Cocoa powder or cinnamon for dusting
Optional Garnishes
- Whipped cream
- Crushed gingersnaps
- Chocolate shavings
- Caramel drizzle
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Cream
In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin spice, and mix until creamy and well blended.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mascarpone mixture until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine espresso (and coffee liqueur if using). Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the mixture, making sure not to soak them too long or they will fall apart.
Step 4: Assemble the Tiramisu
In an 8×8-inch dish or trifle bowl, arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers on the bottom. Spread half of the pumpkin cream mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and the remaining cream. Smooth the top evenly.
Step 5: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture. The longer it chills, the creamier and more cohesive the layers become.
Step 6: Serve
Dust with cocoa powder or cinnamon before serving. Add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or caramel drizzle for a festive touch.
Chef’s Tips for the Best Pumpkin Tiramisu
- Do not over-soak the ladyfingers; a quick dip is enough.
- Use cold heavy cream for easier whipping.
- For a stronger flavor, add a splash of espresso or coffee liqueur between layers.
- Let it chill overnight for the most delicious texture.
- Serve slightly chilled for the perfect creamy consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
- Use gingersnaps or graham crackers instead of ladyfingers for a spiced version.
- Add a layer of caramel or crushed nuts for extra texture.
- Make it dairy-free using coconut cream and vegan mascarpone.
- Skip the coffee for a kid-friendly version and use milk with a dash of cinnamon.
- Add a drizzle of maple syrup to the filling for sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This no bake pumpkin tiramisu is a showstopping dessert for any fall gathering.
- Serve as the centerpiece for Thanksgiving dessert.
- Pair with coffee, espresso, or chai latte.
- Add crushed gingersnaps on top for extra crunch.
- Make individual servings in jars for parties or gifts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-soaking ladyfingers and making them soggy.
- Using warm coffee, which can make the dessert watery.
- Skipping the chill time, which prevents layers from setting.
- Overmixing the whipped cream, causing it to deflate.
- Adding too much sugar and masking the pumpkin flavor.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze, as the mascarpone and cream can separate.
- Make a day ahead for the best flavor and texture.
- Add toppings like whipped cream or cocoa just before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Sugar: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Calcium: 8% DV
No Bake Pumpkin Tiramisu
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 8×8-inch dish or trifle bowl
- shallow dipping dish
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, cold
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves mix)
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur or rum (optional)
- 24–30 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- Cocoa powder or cinnamon, for dusting
- Whipped cream (optional garnish)
- Crushed gingersnaps (optional garnish)
- Chocolate shavings (optional garnish)
- Caramel drizzle (optional garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin spice, and mix until creamy and well blended.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mascarpone mixture until light and fluffy.
- In a shallow dish, combine espresso (and coffee liqueur if using). Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the mixture, making sure not to soak them too long or they will fall apart.
- In an 8×8-inch dish or trifle bowl, arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers on the bottom. Spread half of the pumpkin cream mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and the remaining cream. Smooth the top evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture. The longer it chills, the creamier and more cohesive the layers become.
- Dust with cocoa powder or cinnamon before serving. Add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or caramel drizzle for a festive touch.
Notes
Nutrition
Creamy, Spiced and Effortlessly Elegant
No Bake Pumpkin Tiramisu is everything you want in a fall dessert — creamy, light, and full of pumpkin spice flavor. It takes only a few simple steps and rewards you with a dessert that tastes like something from a fancy café.
Whether you are celebrating Thanksgiving, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a cozy autumn treat, this tiramisu is guaranteed to impress. It’s the kind of dessert that looks beautiful, tastes luxurious, and feels like fall in every bite.
