Pumpkin spice meets chai in the most decadent way possible—Tiramisu! Imagine layers of creamy mascarpone, warmly spiced pumpkin, and chai-soaked ladyfingers, all coming together in a dessert that feels like a cozy hug. This Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu is the ultimate fall treat, blending the rich, creamy texture of classic tiramisu with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and chai.
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Trust me, this is one of those desserts that will have everyone asking for the recipe. It’s the perfect mix of indulgent and cozy, with just the right balance of spice and sweetness. And the best part? No baking required!
Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu
No-Bake Perfection: This is the kind of dessert that comes together effortlessly—just layer, chill, and serve!
Fall Flavor Explosion: Pumpkin spice and chai are a match made in dessert heaven, creating a warm and comforting bite every time.
Make-Ahead Friendly: In fact, it gets even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
Creamy & Dreamy: Mascarpone and whipped cream create the most luxurious texture, while the chai adds depth and warmth.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving this at Thanksgiving, a holiday party, or just because, it’s guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients in Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu
This tiramisu takes all the classic elements you love and gives them a cozy, fall-inspired twist.
Ladyfingers: These delicate, airy cookies soak up the chai beautifully, creating that signature soft-yet-structured texture.
Chai Tea: A strong-brewed chai infusion replaces the traditional espresso, adding warm spices and a slight hint of black tea.
Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show! It brings richness and a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Mascarpone Cheese: The creamy base that gives tiramisu its signature silky texture.
Heavy Cream: Whipped to perfection, this adds airiness and lightness to balance the richness.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: A cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to amp up the fall flavors.
Maple Syrup: A touch of natural sweetness that enhances the warm, spiced flavors.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Cocoa Powder: A light dusting on top for that classic tiramisu finish.
How to Make Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu
Brew the Chai: Steep chai tea bags in hot water until strong and fragrant. Let it cool to room temperature.
Whip the Cream: In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.
Make the Pumpkin Mascarpone Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream.
Soak the Ladyfingers: Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled chai tea, letting them soak just enough to absorb the flavor without becoming soggy.
Assemble the Layers: In a baking dish, arrange a layer of chai-soaked ladyfingers. Spread half of the pumpkin mascarpone mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld.
Dust & Serve: Just before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and an extra sprinkle of pumpkin spice. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
How to Serve Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu
With a Cup of Chai or Coffee: A warm drink alongside makes this dessert even cozier.
Topped with Whipped Cream: Add an extra dollop for an extra indulgent treat.
Garnished with Cinnamon Sticks: A simple but elegant finishing touch.
Drizzled with Caramel: If you love extra sweetness, a light drizzle of caramel sauce is perfection.
Additional Tips
Make It Stronger: Want a bolder chai flavor? Let the tea steep longer for a more intense taste.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or extra cinnamon for an even warmer flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap mascarpone for dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut whipped cream.
Make It Boozy: Add a splash of spiced rum or bourbon to the chai for an adults-only version.
Storage Tips: Keep covered in the fridge for up to [time]. The flavors get even better the next day!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use store-bought chai concentrate?
A1: Yes! Just make sure to use an unsweetened version so the tiramisu isn’t overly sweet.
Q2: Can I make this in advance?
A2: Absolutely! It’s best when chilled for several hours or overnight, making it ideal for meal prep.
Q3: What if I can’t find ladyfingers?
A3: You can substitute with sponge cake or even graham crackers for a different texture.
Q4: How long does this tiramisu last in the fridge?
A4: It keeps well for up to [time]. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.
Q5: Can I freeze this dessert?
A5: Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to [time]. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q6: What’s the best way to cut and serve tiramisu?
A6: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for neat layers.
Q7: Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
A7: Yes! It will be slightly tangier, but still delicious.
Q8: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A8: Definitely! Just skip any alcohol if making a boozy version.
Q9: What’s the best dish to use for layering?
A9: A glass baking dish works well to show off the beautiful layers.
Q10: Can I make this in individual cups?
A10: Yes! Layer the ingredients in small jars or glasses for a fun, single-serving option.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu is fall comfort in dessert form—creamy, spiced, and utterly irresistible. It’s perfect for cozy nights in, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving a no-bake treat that wows.
Print
Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-24 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu is a cozy fall twist on the classic Italian dessert! Instead of espresso, ladyfingers are dipped in chai concentrate, and the creamy filling is infused with pumpkin puree and warm spices. Add spiced rum for a festive kick, or enjoy it alcohol-free. This make-ahead dessert is perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup sugar (or up to 1/2 cup for a sweeter taste)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 8 oz. mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese)
- 1 cup chai concentrate (store-bought or homemade, see notes)
- 2–4 tablespoons spiced rum (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 24 ladyfingers (about one 7 oz. package)
- Bittersweet chocolate, for shaving on top (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- In another bowl, beat together pumpkin puree, sugar, maple syrup, and mascarpone until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture until fully combined.
- In a shallow bowl, mix chai concentrate with spiced rum (if using). In a small bowl, mix cocoa powder and pumpkin pie spice.
- Sift half of the cocoa spice mixture over the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Dip half of the ladyfingers briefly into the chai mixture (2-3 seconds per side) and arrange in a single layer in the dish.
- Spread half of the pumpkin cream mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of chai-dipped ladyfingers and the remaining pumpkin cream.
- Sift the remaining cocoa spice mixture over the top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, preferably overnight (up to 48 hours).
- Before serving, top with bittersweet chocolate shavings if desired. Slice into 9 squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Chai Concentrate: Store-bought options like Tazo or Trader Joe’s work well. You can also make homemade chai concentrate.
- Alcohol Options: Traditionally, Marsala wine is used in tiramisu, but whiskey, brandy, coffee liqueur, or pumpkin liqueur also work well.
- Ladyfingers: Do not over-soak, or they will become mushy. Dip each side for 2-3 seconds before layering.
- Egg-Free Version: This tiramisu doesn’t include eggs in the cream mixture, but traditional ladyfingers contain eggs. Use egg-free ladyfingers if needed.
- Sweetness: This dessert is lightly sweetened, but you can increase sugar to ½ cup if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 371
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg