Irresistible Pumpkin Tiramisu Parfaits Recipe for Fall

The creamy layers, the warm spice of pumpkin, and the irresistible allure of tiramisu merge together in this fall-inspired dessert. Imagine spooning into a luscious pumpkin tiramisu parfait, with silky mascarpone mingling beautifully with pumpkin spice flavors—it’s pure autumnal bliss! These individual parfaits are perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something extra special. If you’re a fan of cozy seasonal desserts, this recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence.

I stumbled upon the idea for these pumpkin tiramisu parfaits during a crisp fall afternoon while experimenting with leftover pumpkin puree. I wanted to create something that combined my love for classic tiramisu and my obsession with pumpkin spice everything. After tweaking and testing, this recipe emerged, and it’s been a hit ever since! Trust me, it’s hard to resist the creamy, dreamy layers of pumpkin mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Whether it’s a dinner party, Thanksgiving dessert, or just a quiet evening treat, these parfaits are destined to shine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No baking required! These parfaits come together quickly, making them ideal for busy schedules.
• Perfect for Fall: The warm spices and pumpkin flavor perfectly capture the essence of autumn.
• Individual Servings: These cute parfaits are perfectly portioned, making them great for dinner parties or family gatherings.
• Customizable: From gluten-free ladyfingers to dairy-free alternatives, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit dietary needs.
• Rich and Decadent: Every spoonful is a delightful blend of creamy mascarpone, spiced pumpkin, and coffee-soaked goodness.

What sets this recipe apart is its balance of flavors. The pumpkin isn’t overpowering, the coffee adds a subtle kick, and the mascarpone ties it all together. Plus, the individual servings are perfect for creating a stunning presentation without the hassle of slicing or plating. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel cozy and fancy all at once!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, seasonal ingredients to create a dessert that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for fall. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ladyfingers: Store-bought or homemade, these form the base of your parfaits. (Opt for gluten-free ladyfingers if needed.)
• Pumpkin Puree: Unsweetened canned pumpkin works best. (Make sure it’s not pumpkin pie filling!)
• Mascarpone Cheese: The creamy, slightly tangy base for the parfait layers.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped to soft peaks for that luscious texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the pumpkin spice.
• Pumpkin Spice Blend: A cozy mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. (Feel free to adjust to your liking!)
• Brewed Coffee: Strong and slightly cooled—espresso works great too!
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Cocoa Powder: For dusting the top of the parfaits.
• Optional Toppings: Crushed gingerbread cookies, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream.

These ingredients are easy to find at most grocery stores, and you might already have many of them in your pantry. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your pumpkin puree or ladyfingers from scratch!

Equipment Needed

• Mixing Bowls: A few medium-sized bowls for mixing your layers.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Essential for whipping the cream and mascarpone mixture.
• Spatula: For folding ingredients gently without deflating the whipped cream.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key for perfect layers.
• Whisk: Useful for combining the pumpkin puree and spices.
• Small Parfait Glasses or Jars: These make for a beautiful presentation and easy serving.

If you don’t have parfait glasses, mason jars or small bowls work as great alternatives. For whipping the cream, a whisk can work, but a mixer will save your arm some effort!

Preparation Method

1. Brew the coffee: Start by brewing a cup of strong coffee or espresso. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the pumpkin layer: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and set aside.
3. Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar until soft peaks form.
4. Make the mascarpone layer: In another bowl, mix 1 cup of mascarpone cheese with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to create a light, airy texture.
5. Dip the ladyfingers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee. Don’t let them soak for too long, as they’ll become too soggy.
6. Assemble the parfaits: Start with a layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers at the base of each parfait glass. Top with a layer of the pumpkin mixture, followed by the mascarpone mixture. Repeat the layers until the glass is full, ending with the mascarpone layer.
7. Finish with cocoa: Dust the top layer with cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu finish.
8. Chill and serve: Cover the parfait glasses with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

When you’re ready to serve, add optional toppings like a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin spice, or some crushed gingerbread cookies for extra flair.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make sure your pumpkin tiramisu parfaits turn out perfect every time:

• Don’t Over-Soak the Ladyfingers: A quick dip is all they need—too much coffee will make them fall apart.
• Chill Your Bowls: Keep your mixing bowls in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before whipping the cream. It helps achieve those perfect soft peaks.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a bolder flavor, add a little extra pumpkin spice or cinnamon to the pumpkin layer.
• Layer Neatly: Use a piping bag or a spoon for precision when layering the pumpkin and mascarpone mixtures for a clean look.
• Make Ahead: These parfaits taste even better after sitting overnight in the fridge, so make them a day in advance for stress-free hosting.

Variations & Adaptations

Here are a few ways to switch things up and adapt the recipe to fit your preferences:

• Dietary Restrictions: Use gluten-free ladyfingers or dairy-free mascarpone and whipped cream for a gluten-free or vegan-friendly option.
• Seasonal Twist: Swap pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa to the coffee for an adult-only treat.
• Chocolate Variation: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the pumpkin and mascarpone layers.
• Personal Touch: Try topping these parfaits with crushed pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch—I love adding roasted pecans for extra autumn vibes!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These pumpkin tiramisu parfaits are best served chilled. Here’s how to serve and store them:

• Recommended Serving: Serve straight from the fridge for the perfect texture. Garnish with whipped cream, cocoa powder, or a sprinkle of pumpkin spice before serving.
• Complementary Pairings: Pair these parfaits with a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or even a pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate autumn treat.
• Storage Instructions: Cover the parfait glasses tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Tips: If you want to freeze them, use freezer-safe containers. Store for up to 2 weeks and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Reheating: These parfaits are best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary!

The flavors of this dessert actually become more pronounced after a day in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While these parfaits are indulgent, they also feature some wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you can expect:

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving (depends on portion size).
• Protein: Mascarpone and heavy cream provide a decent protein boost.
• Key Nutrients: Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Dietary Notes: Can be adapted for gluten-free or dairy-free diets with simple substitutions.
• Allergens: Contains dairy, gluten (unless using gluten-free ingredients), and eggs.

While this dessert isn’t exactly “healthy,” it’s a balanced treat with some nutritional perks thanks to the pumpkin. Moderation is key!

Conclusion

These irresistible pumpkin tiramisu parfaits are the perfect way to celebrate autumn. With their creamy layers, warm spices, and comforting flavors, they’re sure to become a staple in your seasonal dessert lineup. Plus, they’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for sharing—or not, if you want to keep them all to yourself!

Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving something cozy, this recipe is a must-try. I love how they bring warmth and sweetness to any fall day, and I can’t wait to hear how you make them your own. Leave a comment below to share your variations and tips or tag me on social media with your creations!

So grab some pumpkin puree, whip up these parfaits, and enjoy the taste of autumn in every spoonful. Happy fall baking!

FAQs

Can I make these parfaits ahead of time?

Yes! These parfaits taste even better after chilling overnight in the fridge. Just keep them covered to maintain freshness.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works wonderfully, just make sure it’s smooth and not too watery.

What’s a good substitute for ladyfingers?

If you can’t find ladyfingers, you can use sponge cake or even graham crackers as a substitute.

Can I make these parfaits vegan?

Yes, swap the mascarpone with a vegan cream cheese alternative, use dairy-free whipped cream, and choose vegan-friendly cookies instead of traditional ladyfingers.

How long can I store these parfaits?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two weeks. Make sure they’re covered tightly!

Print