As the crisp autumn air wafts through my kitchen, I find myself captivated by the warm spices of chai and the rich essence of pumpkin. That’s when the idea for this Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu came to life—a playful no-bake dessert that beautifully blends two beloved fall flavors in a unique way. Imagine biting into layers of fluffy mascarpone kissed with pumpkin puree, nestled between chai-soaked lady fingers, and dusted with a touch of cocoa and cinnamon. It’s not just a delicious treat; it’s an effortless crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a delightful option for everyone at the table. Are you ready to delight your taste buds with this autumn-inspired dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds?

Why is Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu a must-try?

Deliciously Unique: This dessert combines pumpkin and chai for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall.

No-Bake Wonder: With no baking required, this recipe is hassle-free and ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Its rich, creamy layers and delightful spices ensure it will wow friends and family alike.

Versatile Option: Feel free to experiment by adding espresso for a ‘dirty chai’ twist or swapping in different flavored extracts for a unique spin.

Easy to Prepare: Layering is a breeze, making this recipe perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

This Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu is not just a dessert; it’s a seasonal celebration that you’ll want to make over and over again. If you’re craving more fall flavors, check out these delightful options: Tiramisu Truffles Coffee or Strawberry Blueberry Tiramisu.

Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Mascarpone Mixture
• Mascarpone Cheese (8 oz) – Ensures a rich and creamy consistency; remember it should be cold for better whipping.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Adds the perfect amount of sweetness; no substitutes recommended to maintain flavor.
• Large Egg Yolks (2) – Enhances richness; consider using pasteurized eggs for safety.
• Dark Rum (1 tbsp) – Brings depth to flavors; omit if making a non-alcoholic version.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (2 tbsp) – Adds lightness; make sure it’s cold for the best whipping results.
• Pure Pumpkin Puree (⅓ cup) – Infuses the dessert with that beloved autumn flavor; use a quality brand for best outcomes.
• Vanilla Paste or Extract (1 tsp) – Provides a subtle sweetness and mouthwatering aroma.
For the Layers
• Chai Tea Bags – Essential for infusing flavor into the lady fingers; loose leaf black tea with masala spice can be used as a substitute.
• Lady Fingers (14) – Acts as the dessert’s base layer; other types of sponge cakes won’t achieve the same texture.
For the Dusting
• Cocoa Powder (1 tbsp) – Adds a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness; dust it generously before serving.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Enhances the warm spice profile, perfect for a cozy autumn vibe.

This Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu is a celebration of fall flavors, delivering a deliciously unique dessert experience that will enchant all your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu

Step 1: Steep Chai
Begin by boiling water and steeping the chai tea bags or loose-leaf tea in a heatproof container for about 10 minutes. Once brewed, let the tea cool to room temperature; you want it to be lukewarm for dipping the lady fingers without making them soggy. This aromatic chai infusion is crucial for the flavor of your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu.

Step 2: Make Mascarpone Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz of chilled mascarpone cheese, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 2 large egg yolks, 1 tablespoon dark rum, 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream, ⅓ cup pure pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon vanilla paste. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-combined. This creamy mixture is the heart of your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu.

Step 3: Prepare Lady Fingers
Once your chai has cooled completely, quickly dip each lady finger into the chai for about 1-2 seconds; avoid soaking them. Line the bottom of a loaf pan with the dipped lady fingers, creating a snug first layer. The lady fingers should appear lightly moistened but still retain their shape, ensuring a perfect texture as you build your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu.

Step 4: Layer Ingredients
Spread half of the pumpkin mascarpone mixture over the layer of lady fingers in the loaf pan. Gently smooth it out with a spatula, making sure to reach the edges. Repeat the process by adding another layer of dipped lady fingers followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture, ensuring a beautiful contrast of colors and textures within your dessert.

Step 5: Chill
Cover the loaf pan tightly with cling wrap to prevent any odors from affecting your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the lady fingers to soften. This chilling time is essential for achieving that perfect creamy texture and depth of flavor.

Step 6: Dust and Serve
Before serving, carefully remove the cling wrap and dust the top of your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu with 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Use a fine sieve to ensure even coverage, creating an inviting appearance. Gently slice or scoop out portions, ready to delight your family and friends with this seasonal dessert!

Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to swap ingredients and experiment with flavors, creating a Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu that’s uniquely yours!

Add Coffee: For a ‘dirty chai’ twist, incorporate espresso into the chai soaking liquid for an invigorating kick.
There’s something magical about combining warm spices with coffee; it heightens the richness of this dessert.
Flavor Swaps: Experiment with almond or caramel extracts instead of vanilla to create a different taste profile.
Changing up the extract allows you to play with flavors that evoke your favorite memories of fall.
Add Spice: Sprinkle in additional cardamom or ginger for a spicier, more aromatic experience.
A touch of unexpected heat can turn this dessert into a cozy embrace on chilly nights.
Nutty Twist: Stir in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the mascarpone mixture for added crunch.
The contrast between creamy and crunchy adds great texture and surprises with every bite.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free mascarpone alternatives for a comforting vegan version.
Coconut brings a gentle sweetness and enhances the pumpkin and spices beautifully.
Sweeten the Deal: Try maple syrup in place of granulated sugar for a delightful twist of flavor.
Its rich, earthy tones pair perfectly with the pumpkin and chai, leaving guests craving more.
Different Layers: Use crumbled ginger cookies or pumpkin bread as an alternative base layer for a fun twist.
These options add another layer of flavor and texture that complements the main pumpkin flavor.
Get Saucy: Top your tiramisu with butterscotch or caramel sauce for a luxurious finish.
Drizzling a sweet sauce before serving elevates the dessert to a whole new level of decadence.

If you loved this Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu, explore more delicious delights with Tiramisu Truffles Coffee or the fruity goodness of Strawberry Blueberry Tiramisu.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu

Indulging in a slice of this luscious dessert creates the perfect opportunity to complement it with delightful pairings that enhance its autumnal flavors.

Crispy Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture provides a delightful contrast to the creamy tiramisu, perfect for dipping into coffee.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage echoes the chai spices, wrapping your taste buds in a cozy embrace that pairs beautifully with each bite.
Roasted Pumpkin Soup: A warm, savory starter that echoes the pumpkin flavors, setting a comforting tone for your meal before indulging in dessert.
Candied Ginger Cookies: Their chewy, spicy sweetness will harmonize with the chai and pumpkin, offering a delightful twist.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop alongside the tiramisu creates a rich, creamy experience, the vanilla rounding out the spices and adding chill.
Maple Pecan Tart: The rich, caramel-like sweetness of maple, paired with crunchy pecans, enhances the fall theme and makes a perfect dessert duet.
Nutty Charcuterie Board: Featuring cheeses, fruits, and nuts, this savory option balances the sweetness and provides a mix of textures and flavors.
Chai Tea: Serving a warm cup of chai reaffirms the flavor profile, deepening the experience as you savor the dessert’s layers.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A simple touch of melted chocolate drizzled over the top adds richness and a luxurious feel to the delightful tiramisu experience.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu

Dipping Technique: Avoid soaking lady fingers for too long; a quick dip of 1-2 seconds is ideal to maintain the right texture in your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu.
Chill Wisely: Refrigerating for at least 6 hours—preferably overnight—is crucial for flavors to meld and for the dessert to set up properly.
Ingredient Temperature: Ensure your mascarpone and heavy cream are well-chilled; this helps achieve a light, fluffy consistency when mixing.
Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust sugar or spice levels in the mascarpone mixture to tailor the flavor profile to your preference.
Dusting Delight: For an elegant touch, use a fine sieve to evenly dust cocoa powder and cinnamon; this enhances both appearance and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic autumn season! You can prepare the entire dessert up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. To make ahead, simply complete all the layering steps—soaking the lady fingers in chai, adding the creamy mascarpone mixture, and chilling the dessert. Cover it tightly with cling wrap to prevent any fridge odors from seeping in, which helps maintain quality. When ready to serve, just dust with cocoa powder and cinnamon, and you’ll have a stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu

Fridge: Store your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 4 days to maintain its freshness and creamy texture.

Freezer: If you wish to freeze it, wrap individual portions and place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer to the fridge and allow it to thaw overnight for a smooth, creamy texture.

Reheating: Since this recipe is served chilled, there’s no reheating needed. Just dust it with cocoa and cinnamon before serving!

Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

What type of chai tea should I use?
You can use chai tea bags or loose leaf black tea with a masala spice blend as a delightful alternative. Look for a chai that’s rich in spices to really enhance the flavor profile of your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu.

How long can I store my Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu?
Store your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap, for up to 4 days. Keeping it well-covered ensures that it maintains its freshness and the creamy texture remains intact.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu?
Absolutely! If you want to freeze it, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

What if my mascarpone mixture is too runny?
If your mascarpone mixture isn’t fluffing up properly and remains runny, it may be because the ingredients aren’t cold enough. Ensure that your mascarpone cheese and heavy cream are thoroughly chilled before mixing. Continue whipping until it reaches a light and fluffy consistency; this typically takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu is vegetarian-friendly, but be cautious with the egg yolks. If you or your guests are concerned about raw eggs, you can use pasteurized egg yolks or opt for cooked yolks instead. Additionally, for a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the dark rum without compromising taste.

How can I enhance the flavor further?
To kick up the flavor, consider adding additional spices like cardamom or ginger to your mascarpone mixture or while soaking the lady fingers. You could even incorporate a shot of espresso for a ‘dirty chai’ twist that brings a new layer of richness to your Pumpkin Chai Tiramisu.