Cozy Pumpkin Date Tiramisù – A Fall-Inspired Twist on the Classic Dessert

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Pumpkin Date Tiramisù

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like wrapping yourself in a soft, warm blanket on a crisp autumn evening, then Pumpkin Date Tiramisù is about to become your new obsession. Imagine all the beloved qualities of classic tiramisù — creamy layers, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, that velvety mascarpone cloud — but infused with pumpkin, warm spices, and naturally sweet dates. It’s everything you love about fall, beautifully layered into one stunning dessert.

The first time I tasted Pumpkin Date Tiramisù was during a cozy fall dinner party hosted by my best friend. I remember taking the first bite and going completely still — the combination of earthy pumpkin, caramel-like dates, aromatic espresso, and silky mascarpone was magic. It tasted familiar yet new, nostalgic yet adventurous. And I knew instantly that I needed to recreate it in my own kitchen.

After several delicious test rounds (no one in my household complained), this version became The One — flavorful, balanced, elegant, and shockingly easy to assemble. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, hosting friends, or just craving a comforting autumn dessert, this recipe will absolutely steal the show.

Let’s build this beauty together.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Date Tiramisù

For the Pumpkin-Date Filling

  • 1 cup pumpkin purée
  • 8–10 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, depending on date sweetness)

For the Mascarpone Layer

  • 1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • ⅓ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coffee Layer

  • 1 ½ cups brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
  • 2 tablespoons dark rum, amaretto, or vanilla extract (optional)

To Assemble

  • 1 package ladyfingers (traditional or gluten-free)
  • Cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

Substitution Ideas

This recipe is super flexible! Here are some ways to customize it:

Make it Vegan

  • Use vegan mascarpone or blend soaked cashews with coconut cream.
  • Replace whipped cream with coconut whipped topping.
  • Use vegan ladyfingers or layers of soft vegan cookies.

Make it Gluten-Free

  • Choose gluten-free ladyfingers (widely available).
  • Alternatively, use gluten-free vanilla cookies or soft sponge cake.

Lighten It Up

  • Replace half the mascarpone with Greek yogurt.
  • Use light whipped topping instead of heavy cream.

Flavor Variations

  • Swap dates for figs or prunes.
  • Add a spoon of pumpkin butter for extra richness.
  • Add orange zest for brightness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pumpkin-Date Mixture

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the pumpkin purée, chopped dates, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

Cook gently for 5–7 minutes, allowing the dates to soften. Stir occasionally.

If the mixture seems too thick or the dates aren’t breaking down, add 1–2 tablespoons of water.
Use a fork or spoon to mash the softened dates into the pumpkin until well combined.

Taste it — if you want more sweetness, add the maple syrup.

Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Cream

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the mascarpone and powdered sugar until smooth.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until light, fluffy, and dreamy.

This cloudlike mascarpone layer will balance the richness of the pumpkin perfectly.

Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Dip

Brew strong coffee or espresso and allow it to cool completely.

Stir in your flavor boost: rum, amaretto, or vanilla.
This step is optional, but trust me — it adds a layer of sophistication and warmth.

Step 4: Assemble the Pumpkin Date Tiramisù

Get your dish ready — an 8×8-inch pan or a set of small dessert glasses works beautifully.

Layer 1:

Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the cooled coffee.
Don’t soak them — one second per side is perfect.
Arrange them in a single layer on the bottom of your dish.

Layer 2:

Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.

Layer 3:

Dollop and gently spread a generous layer of the pumpkin-date mixture.

Repeat the layers

Finish with a final layer of mascarpone cream on top.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover your tiramisù and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, though overnight is ideal.

Before serving, dust with cocoa powder or a mix of cocoa + cinnamon for extra fall charm.

Top with toasted pecans or walnuts if you want a little crunch.

Slice, serve, swoon.

Extra Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Date Tiramisù

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream.
  • Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.
  • Pair with hot coffee, chai latte, or spiced tea.
  • Garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds for a fun twist.

Storage Advice

  • Refrigerator: Keeps beautifully for 3–4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months (assemble in a freezer-safe dish).
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

  • Use gingerbread cookies instead of ladyfingers for a holiday flavor.
  • Add a swirl of dulce de leche to the mascarpone layer.
  • Mix a spoonful of tahini into the pumpkin-date mixture for nutty depth.

Nutritional Information

(Based on estimates inspired by NYT Cooking)

For one serving (serves 8):

  • Calories: ~350–420
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 25–28g
  • Sodium: ~120mg

This will vary depending on substitutions and optional add-ins.

FAQ – Pumpkin Date Tiramisù

How long does Pumpkin Date Tiramisù take to make?

About 30 minutes of active time, plus 6+ hours to chill.
If you prepare it the night before, it’s absolutely perfect the next day.

Can I substitute the dates?

Yes! You can use:

  • Figs
  • Raisins
  • Prunes
  • Apple butter
  • A small amount of brown sugar

Dates add a natural caramel sweetness, but many alternatives work beautifully.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Date Tiramisù?

Absolutely.
Freeze it well-wrapped for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What if I don’t like coffee?

Replace the coffee dip with:

  • Chai tea
  • Cocoa + vanilla
  • Caramel coffee syrup watered down
  • Maple latte-style milk

Any warm, cozy flavor pairs well with pumpkin.

Can I make this tiramisù alcohol-free?

Yes — just omit the rum or amaretto.
Use vanilla extract for flavor instead.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Date Tiramisù is the kind of dessert that makes everyone at the table pause, smile, and say, “Oh wow…” after the first bite. It’s cozy, creamy, lightly spiced, and beautifully balanced — a dessert that truly tastes like fall in every layer.

It’s surprisingly simple to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for gatherings during the holiday season, but honestly? It’s good any time of year you want something comforting and elegant.

If you try this Pumpkin Date Tiramisù, I’d love for you to come back and tell me how it turned out!
Leave a comment, share a photo, or tag me on social media — I adore seeing your creations.

Happy layering, sweet friends! 🍂🎃🍰