Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caramel Apple Tiramisu is a creative twist on the classic Italian dessert, transforming it into a fall-inspired treat that combines the richness of tiramisu with the sweet, tart flavors of caramelized apples. The fluffy mascarpone cream, layered with spongy ladyfingers soaked in apple cider and caramel, creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dessert is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or any time you want to impress with a unique and indulgent dessert. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both decadent and comforting, with just the right amount of sweetness.

Caramel Apple Tiramisu Recipe

Ingredients

For the caramelized apples:

2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

For the mascarpone filling:

1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For assembling:

1 package ladyfingers (about 24-30, depending on the size of your dish)
1/2 cup apple cider (or apple juice)
1/4 cup caramel sauce for drizzling
1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for dusting, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Caramelize the Apples:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the Mascarpone Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce and continue beating until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding more powdered sugar if desired.

3. Assemble the Tiramisu:

In a shallow dish, pour the apple cider. Quickly dip the ladyfingers into the apple cider, making sure they are soaked but not soggy. Layer them at the bottom of a 9×9-inch or similar-sized dish.
Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the soaked ladyfingers.
Evenly distribute half of the caramelized apples on top of the cream layer.
Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, the remaining mascarpone cream, and the remaining caramelized apples.

4. Chill the Tiramisu:

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

5. Serve:

Before serving, drizzle the top with extra caramel sauce and dust with a light sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Serve chilled and enjoy this autumn-inspired twist on a classic dessert!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes (for caramelizing apples)
Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total time: 4 hours 35 minutes (or overnight)

Variations

Spiced Rum Version: Add a tablespoon of spiced rum to the apple cider for extra flavor when soaking the ladyfingers.
Use Different Fruits: Instead of apples, you can use pears or even roasted peaches for a different fruity twist.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free mascarpone and whipped coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version of this dessert.
Crunchy Texture: Add crushed nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or toffee bits to the layers for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Cover and store the tiramisu in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
Freezing: This dessert can be frozen for up to 1 month. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, the tiramisu tastes even better if you let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. It allows the flavors to meld together, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Can I make the caramel apples in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the caramelized apples ahead of time. Just refrigerate them and let them come to room temperature before assembling the tiramisu.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works just fine in this recipe. However, homemade caramel sauce can give it an extra rich flavor if you prefer.

Can I use other cookies instead of ladyfingers?

Ladyfingers are traditional for tiramisu, but you can substitute them with sponge cake or even graham crackers if you prefer a different texture.

Can I skip the caramelized apples?

For a simpler version, you can skip the caramelized apples and just use fresh apple slices mixed with cinnamon and sugar, or even just apple compote for a quicker version.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Tiramisu is a decadent, fall-inspired dessert that takes the traditional tiramisu and gives it a deliciously fruity, spiced twist. The rich, creamy mascarpone filling pairs perfectly with the sweet, caramelized apples and spongy ladyfingers, creating a treat that’s sure to impress at any gathering. With its easy preparation and impressive presentation, it’s the perfect dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall, or any time you want to indulge in a cozy, comforting treat. Enjoy this twist on a classic Italian dessert!

Jane

Caramel Apple Tiramisu Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients