Tiramisu, the iconic Italian dessert, has long been beloved for its delicate layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. This rich, indulgent treat has become a go-to dessert for many occasions, from formal dinner parties to casual family gatherings. However, while the classic tiramisu is a timeless favorite, sometimes a change in season or a craving for something a little different calls for a twist on tradition. That’s where this Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu comes in—a delicious fall-inspired version that infuses the beloved dessert with the warm, comforting flavors of apple, cinnamon, and caramel.
This variation on the traditional tiramisu swaps out the coffee-soaked ladyfingers for a decadent apple pie filling, and the usual cocoa powder is replaced with fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg. The result is a dessert that is both familiar and entirely new—an autumnal treat that combines the creamy, airy texture of mascarpone with the deep, sweet flavors of spiced apples, caramel, and toasted pecans. It’s the perfect dessert for the fall and holiday seasons, or anytime you want to impress your friends and family with something unique and delicious.
Whether you’re serving it at a Thanksgiving feast, a cozy dinner party, or a casual weeknight meal, this Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu will be sure to steal the spotlight. The combination of warm spices, creamy layers, and a hint of caramel is irresistible, making this dessert a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and is sure to leave your guests asking for seconds. So let’s dive into this delicious recipe and discover why this Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu is destined to become your new favorite dessert.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
While traditional tiramisu will always hold a place in dessert history, the Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu brings a seasonal twist to this classic, making it even more special for autumnal occasions. What makes this recipe timeless is the way it seamlessly blends the indulgent creaminess of mascarpone with the warm, comforting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, along with the familiar sweetness of apple pie filling. It evokes the essence of fall, and every bite is a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.
Tiramisu itself is a dessert that has endured for decades because of its rich flavor and versatility. It’s one of those desserts that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and seasonal ingredients, which is exactly what this Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu does. The layers of creamy mascarpone filling combined with the cinnamon-spiced apples create a perfect autumn-inspired dessert that still maintains the elegant simplicity of the original recipe.
Moreover, this version is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both fans of traditional tiramisu and those who enjoy the sweet, spiced flavors associated with fall desserts. It’s a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and sophistication—ideal for any occasion, big or small. Plus, it’s a great way to make use of apple pie filling, a pantry staple that provides a quick and easy base without sacrificing flavor.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a fun weekend treat, Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu is sure to be a showstopper at any event. It’s a dessert that brings people together, offering both nostalgic comfort and fresh excitement. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the ingredients and steps to create this timeless fall-inspired dessert.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Apple Filling:
- 1 (21-ounce) can apple pie fruit filling or topping (such as Lucky Leaf®)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon table salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Tiramisu:
- 1 (8-ounce) container mascarpone cheese, softened (such as BelGioioso®)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup apple cider
- 24 ladyfingers cookies
- 1/4 cup caramel topping, divided, plus more for drizzling (such as Smucker’s®)
- Chopped toasted pecans for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 48g
- Sodium: 180mg
(Note: The nutrition facts are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apple Filling
To start, open the can of apple pie filling and transfer the contents to a mixing bowl. Add the ground cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg to the filling, and stir to combine. This will infuse the apples with warm, aromatic spices, enhancing the flavor and giving it that fall-inspired taste. Set the apple filling aside while you prepare the tiramisu layers.
2. Prepare the Tiramisu Cream
In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. This will help to eliminate any lumps and create a creamy base for the filling. Once the mascarpone is smooth, set it aside.
In another large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, salt, and ground nutmeg. Beat until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream will add lightness and airiness to the tiramisu, creating that signature creamy texture.
Once the whipped cream is ready, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream. Mix until well combined and smooth. This will be the creamy layer that forms the base of the tiramisu.
3. Prepare the Ladyfingers
In a shallow bowl, pour the apple cider. This will be used to soak the ladyfingers, giving them a sweet, spiced flavor that complements the apple filling. Take each ladyfinger and dip it quickly into the apple cider, making sure not to soak it for too long, as the cookies can become too soggy.
Once dipped, place the ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish in a single layer. Continue until the bottom of the dish is covered with a layer of cider-soaked ladyfingers.
4. Assemble the Tiramisu
Spread half of the prepared mascarpone cream mixture over the layer of ladyfingers. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, ensuring the cream completely covers the ladyfingers.
Next, spoon half of the spiced apple filling over the cream layer. Use the back of the spoon to spread the apples evenly, so each bite will have a nice balance of fruit and cream.
Repeat the process with another layer of ladyfingers, soaking them in apple cider, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream and apple filling.
5. Finish with Caramel and Garnish
Drizzle the caramel topping over the top layer of apple filling, making sure to evenly coat the surface. For an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle a bit more caramel on top of individual servings when you serve them.
Optional: Garnish with chopped toasted pecans for added texture and flavor. The nuts add a nice crunch and complement the creamy and spiced elements of the dessert.
6. Chill and Serve
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set properly.
Once chilled, serve the Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu cold and enjoy the comforting, spiced flavors of fall in every bite.
Tips for Making the Perfect Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu
- Use Quality Mascarpone: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality mascarpone cheese. It will make a big difference in the creaminess of the dessert.
- Don’t Soak the Ladyfingers Too Long: When dipping the ladyfingers into the apple cider, be sure to dip them quickly to avoid making them too soggy. They should be moist but not falling apart.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the tiramisu to chill for at least 4 hours to ensure the flavors develop fully and the layers set. For the best results, refrigerate overnight.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you love cinnamon, feel free to add a bit more to both the mascarpone cream and the apple filling. You can also experiment with other fall spices, like cloves or allspice, for a unique twist.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or even a dash of extra cinnamon on top will give the tiramisu a beautiful finishing touch and an added layer of flavor.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even better the next day.
- Freezing: While tiramisu doesn’t freeze as well as some other desserts, you can freeze individual servings for up to 1 month. Allow to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu brings a delightful fall twist to the classic Italian dessert. With its creamy mascarpone layers, spiced apples, and hints of cinnamon and caramel, it’s the perfect treat for the autumn and holiday seasons. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a fall dinner party, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dessert is sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavors. It’s a timeless recipe that will become a favorite for years to come, and it’s one that you’ll want to make again and again.
So, gather your ingredients, get in the kitchen, and make this delicious Apple Cinnamon Tiramisu. It’s a dessert that’s not only easy to prepare, but also a comforting and luxurious treat that will leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy!