✨ Decadent Caramel Apple Tiramisù – A Cozy Twist on the Classic Italian Dessert

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Caramel Apple Tiramisù

If you’re a lover of traditional tiramisù and fall flavors, you’re in for a treat today. This Caramel Apple Tiramisù recipe is what happens when cozy autumn vibes meet Italian dessert perfection — and the result is nothing short of magical.

Imagine layers of cinnamon-kissed apples, velvety mascarpone cream, and ladyfingers soaked in warm apple cider instead of espresso… all drizzled with ribbons of golden caramel. It tastes like tiramisù took a long walk through an apple orchard and came back feeling fabulous.

The first time I made this dessert was on a chilly October weekend after a day of apple picking. I had way too many apples and not enough motivation to bake a pie — so I improvised. I caramelized the apples, whipped up a classic tiramisù cream, swapped espresso for cider, and hoped for the best. And honestly? It’s now my most-requested fall dessert among family and friends.

This Caramel Apple Tiramisù is cozy, elegant, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, a fall dinner party, or just craving something luxurious with minimal effort, this dessert fits the bill beautifully.

Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Tiramisù

For the Apple Layer

  • 3 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala), peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (brown sugar preferred for deeper flavor)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Mascarpone Cream

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon caramel sauce

For the Ladyfingers

  • 1 package ladyfingers (savoiardi)
  • 1 cup apple cider (or apple juice)
  • 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon Calvados or brandy

For Topping

  • Additional caramel sauce
  • A sprinkle of cinnamon
  • Thin apple slices or chopped nuts (for garnish)

Substitution Ideas

One of the best parts about Caramel Apple Tiramisù is how customizable it is.

Vegan Options

  • Use vegan mascarpone or whipped coconut cream
  • Vegan ladyfingers or vanilla cookies
  • Plant-based caramel sauce

Gluten-Free Options

  • Use gluten-free ladyfingers
  • Keep everything else the same

Lighter Version

  • Replace mascarpone with a mix of Greek yogurt + light cream cheese
  • Use less caramel
  • Replace sugar with monk fruit or coconut sugar

Flavor Variations

  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth
  • Swap apple cider for chai tea
  • Use salted caramel for added depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Caramelized Apples

In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apples, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the juices thicken slightly into a syrupy glaze.

Set aside to cool completely — this is important so the heat doesn’t melt the mascarpone cream later.

Tip: Slightly overcooked apples can turn mushy, so aim for tender but still holding shape.

Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream

In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

In another bowl, combine mascarpone, sugar, vanilla, and caramel sauce. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and airy. Be careful not to overmix — we want it light and fluffy.

This dreamy cream is what makes Caramel Apple Tiramisù so indulgent.

Step 3: Prepare the Ladyfingers

In a shallow dish, whisk together:

  • Apple cider
  • Caramel sauce
  • Calvados/brandy (optional)

Dip each ladyfinger for 1–2 seconds — no longer, or they’ll fall apart.

Step 4: Assemble the Caramel Apple Tiramisù

Choose a glass dish, trifle bowl, or individual dessert cups.

Layer 1: Apple cider–soaked ladyfingers

Place them in a single, snug layer.

Layer 2: Mascarpone cream

Spread a generous layer evenly over the ladyfingers.

Layer 3: Caramelized apples

Spoon the cooled apples on top.

Repeat the layers until your dish is full, finishing with a thick layer of mascarpone cream.

Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and dust lightly with cinnamon.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate your tiramisù for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The flavors need time to blend beautifully.

Once chilled, garnish with:

  • Fresh apple slices
  • Crushed gingersnaps
  • Toasted pecans
  • Extra caramel swirls

And enjoy every heavenly bite.

Extra Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Tiramisù

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with warm apple cider or a cinnamon latte.
  • Add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side.
  • For an elegant finish, serve in martini glasses or small glass jars.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Keeps up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • Freezing: Freeze WITHOUT apple slices for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight.
  • Reheating: Tiramisù is served cold — no reheating needed!

Ingredient Swaps

  • Replace apples with pears for a delicate twist.
  • Use salted caramel for a more grown-up flavor profile.
  • Swap ladyfingers for pound cake or cinnamon swirl bread.

Nutritional Information

(Based on NYT Cooking’s recipe: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1027505-caramel-apple-tiramisu)

Approximate per serving:

  • Calories: 420–480
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g

Values vary depending on ladyfingers, caramel, and apples used.

FAQ: Caramel Apple Tiramisù

How long does it take to make?

Prep takes about 25 minutes, and chill time is at least 4 hours. Total time: 4 hours 30 minutes.

Can I substitute mascarpone?

Yes! Replace with:

  • 50% cream cheese + 50% Greek yogurt
  • Whipped coconut cream for vegan

But mascarpone gives the most authentic texture.

Can I freeze Caramel Apple Tiramisù?

Absolutely. Freeze the assembled tiramisù (without fresh apple toppings) for 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes — store-bought caramel works wonderfully. If you want a deeper flavor, warm it with a pinch of salt and vanilla.

Can I use soft ladyfingers instead of crunchy?

You can! Just dip them quickly to avoid sogginess.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s comforting yet elegant, easy yet impressive, this Caramel Apple Tiramisù is your new go-to. Every layer is bursting with warm fall flavors — tender apples, silky mascarpone, caramel sweetness, and soft cider-soaked ladyfingers.

It’s the kind of dessert that makes people close their eyes after the first bite.

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, planning a cozy movie night, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe is guaranteed to steal the show.

If you try this Caramel Apple Tiramisù, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share your creation on social media and tag me.

Happy whisking and happy eating! 🍏🍮✨