Apple Pie Tiramisu Recipe

If you love both classic Italian desserts and the comforting flavors of a homemade apple pie, then you are going to absolutely adore this Apple Pie Tiramisu. This delightful treat layers warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling with a luxuriously creamy vanilla mousse, all nestled between bourbon-soaked ladyfingers and crowned with a drizzle of rich caramel. It’s a beautifully surprising fusion that feels both nostalgic and novel, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring as your new go-to dessert. Believe me, once you try this Apple Pie Tiramisu, it’ll quickly become a beloved favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Pie Tiramisu plays a crucial role, from the tart granny smith apples that provide a bright contrast to the sweet layers, to the fragrant spices that evoke that unmistakable apple pie aroma. The creamy components create the perfect mousse texture, while the ladyfingers soaked in a bourbon-milk mixture add a subtle kick and soak up all those delicious flavors.

• 3 Medium granny smith apples: Their natural tartness balances the dessert’s sweetness perfectly.
• Juice from 1/2 fresh lemon: Helps keep the diced apples fresh and adds a touch of brightness.
• 2 tablespoons Pure maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the apple filling.
• 2 tablespoons Light brown sugar: Enhances the warm caramel notes in the apples.
• 1 tablespoon All-purpose flour: Thickens the apple filling to a luscious consistency.
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon: A classic spice that brings warmth and coziness to every bite.
• 1 pkg (3.4oz) Instant vanilla pudding: Forms the silky base of the mousse.
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon: Incorporated into the mousse for an extra cinnamon kick.
• 1 teaspoon Apple pie spice: A special blend that elevates the dessert’s signature flavor.
• 1 ¾ Cups Milk: Needed to prepare the pudding.
• 1 ¼ Cups Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, it creates the mousse’s fluffy texture.
• ¾ cup Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream while keeping it light.
• 8 oz Cream cheese or mascarpone cheese: Adds richness and smoothness to the mousse.
• 4 tablespoons Milk (for soaking ladyfingers): Combined with bourbon to flavor and soften the ladyfingers.
• 4 tablespoons Bourbon: Gives an adult-friendly warmth and depth to the ladyfingers.
• 2 pkg (7oz) Ladyfingers: The classic tiramisu base that absorbs all the luscious layers.
• 1/4 cup Caramel sauce: Drizzled between layers for sweet stickiness and richness.
• Walnuts for garnish (optional): Adds crunch and a toasty contrast on top.

How to Make Apple Pie Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by finely dicing the granny smith apples into about dime-sized pieces. Toss them with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning, then mix in brown sugar, flour, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Cook this mixture gently on the stove until the apples soften and the flavors meld, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once tender, set the filling aside to cool completely. This filling is the heartwarming apple pie essence that makes this tiramisu so special.

Step 2: Make the Mousse

Combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with cinnamon and apple pie spice in a bowl, then whisk in milk until smooth. Refrigerate until it firms up a bit, about 10 to 15 minutes. Next, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, giving the mousse that irresistible lightness. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then fold in the chilled pudding and half the whipped cream gently to keep it airy and luscious. The mousse adds a creamy, dreamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender apples and soaked ladyfingers.

Step 3: Assemble the Apple Pie Tiramisu

Line the bottom of a 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper to keep everything neat and easy to serve. Mix the milk and bourbon in a shallow dish for dipping the ladyfingers. Quickly dip each ladyfinger, soaking but not soggy, then arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of your pan. Drizzle with caramel sauce before layering half the mousse evenly on top. Spread 1 ¼ cups of the cooled apple filling over the mousse, pressing lightly to integrate the layers. Repeat with another soak and layer of ladyfingers, drizzle more caramel, and finish with the remaining mousse and apple filling. Cover with remaining whipped cream for an elegant finish. Chill the assembled dessert for at least an hour so all the flavors meld deliciously.

How to Serve Apple Pie Tiramisu

Garnishes

A drizzle of extra caramel sauce just before serving gives a shiny, sweet finish that invites indulgence. For added texture and a nutty contrast, sprinkle chopped walnuts or toasted toffee bits on top. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also elevate each bite with varied flavors and crunch.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines brightest on its own, but if you want to complement it, consider serving with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a warm cup of spiced chai tea. These pairings resonate with the warm spices and creamy elements, creating a perfectly cozy and satisfying experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special touch, serve your Apple Pie Tiramisu in individual clear glass cups or mason jars. This lets all the beautiful layers shine through, giving guests a more personalized experience. You can also add a sprig of fresh mint or a thin apple slice on top to elevate the presentation with a pop of color and freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Pie Tiramisu keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Its flavors actually deepen with time, so leftovers can be just as delightful as the day you make it.

Freezing

If you want to save your Apple Pie Tiramisu for longer, it freezes well. Wrap the tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve the creamy texture and fresh taste.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and does not need reheating. If your tiramisu has been refrigerated, simply bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and soften the texture slightly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Yes! While granny smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness, you can use other firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji, but keep in mind that sweeter apples might make the filling less tangy.

Is mascarpone cheese necessary, or can I use cream cheese?

Both mascarpone and cream cheese work wonderfully here. Mascarpone offers a smoother, more delicate flavor, while cream cheese provides a slightly tangier taste, which pairs well with the apple filling.

Can I make this Apple Pie Tiramisu alcohol-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bourbon or replace it with an equal amount of milk or apple juice for a kid-friendly or alcohol-free version with the same moist texture.

How long should I soak the ladyfingers?

Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the milk and bourbon mixture — about 1 to 2 seconds per side. You want them soaked enough to absorb the flavor without becoming mushy and falling apart.

Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead?

Yes, this Apple Pie Tiramisu actually benefits from chilling overnight, allowing all the layers to meld and develop deeper flavors for an even more delicious dessert.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Tiramisu is a delightful mashup of two beloved desserts that somehow just makes perfect sense together. Creamy, spiced, and utterly irresistible, it becomes a star at any gathering or a lovely treat for yourself after a long day. I encourage you to try making this Apple Pie Tiramisu soon — it’s comfort food meets elegance, and once you have a slice, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t discovered it sooner.

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