
This elegant caramelized apple tiramisu puts an autumn spin on the classic Italian dessert. The combination of tender caramelized apples and silky mascarpone cream creates an irresistible harmony of flavors perfect for cool fall evenings. Inspired by traditional tiramisu but transformed with the addition of salted caramel, this French-Italian fusion delivers sophisticated comfort in every spoonful.
The key to this dessert's success lies in carefully layering the components and selecting quality ingredients that complement each other perfectly.
Essential Ingredients Guide
- Mascarpone - Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before use for optimal texture. Choose high-quality mascarpone for the smoothest cream
- Eggs - Use room temperature eggs for a stable Italian meringue. Fresh eggs are essential for proper cream structure
- Apples - Golden Delicious or Cox apples work best as they hold their shape while becoming tender. Their slight tartness balances the caramel
- Salted Caramel - Use artisanal or homemade. The quality of salted butter significantly impacts the final flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Caramelized Apples: Cut apples into uniform 1.5cm cubes - this size ensures even cooking. Heat butter in a non-stick pan until foamy. Cook apples in two stages: first on high heat to caramelize (2 minutes), then reduce heat and cook until tender while maintaining shape (3-4 minutes). Cool on a plate in a single layer.
Making the Mascarpone Cream: Beat egg yolks with sugar until very pale and tripled in volume. Gradually incorporate mascarpone, whisking gently to avoid lumps. Whip egg whites to firm peaks, being careful not to overbeat. Fold whites into mascarpone mixture in three additions using gentle motions to maintain lightness.
Assembly Instructions
- Step 1:
- Quickly dip cookies in caramel-milk mixture until just softened
- Step 2:
- Layer soaked cookies in serving glasses
- Step 3:
- Drizzle with salted caramel
- Step 4:
- Add warm caramelized apples
- Step 5:
- Top with mascarpone cream
- Step 6:
- Repeat layers, finishing with cream

Storage Tips
This dessert improves with time - prepare it a day ahead when possible. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.
This reimagined tiramisu perfectly bridges Italian tradition with French flavors, creating an elegant dessert that celebrates the best of autumn ingredients. Each spoonful reveals carefully crafted layers that come together in perfect harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How far in advance should I prepare this tiramisu?
- Make it at least 6 hours ahead so the biscuits soak up all the caramel and the flavors mix well.
- → Can I use homemade salted caramel?
- Definitely! Feel free to make caramel from scratch or use store-bought if you're short on time.
- → What kind of apples work best for this recipe?
- Pick apples that hold their shape when cooked, like Pink Lady or Golden.
- → How should I store this dessert?
- Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for 2 to 3 days.
- → Can I freeze this tiramisu?
- Freezing isn’t recommended since it can ruin the texture of both the cream and the apples.