Tiramisu is one of those iconic desserts that’s hard to beat. It’s creamy, looks gorgeous, and is incredibly indulgent.
But when you swap out coffee and cocoa for cinnamon-spiced apples and lighten up the mascarpone cream with Greek yogurt, you get something just as satisfying, only lighter, fruitier, and a lot more healthy.
This Apple Tiramisu is a great make-ahead dessert that feels perfect for fall or any time you have extra apples to use up. It’s lightened up, naturally sweetened, and super simple to throw together. Plus, the individual portions look beautiful in glasses or jars!
What Makes This Version Healthier?
- Replacing half of the mascarpone with Greek yogurt makes the cream lighter and higher in protein.
- The apple layer is made from scratch with whole ingredients and just a touch of sugar or sweetener.
- Instead of coffee and alcohol, this version uses orange juice to soften the ladyfingers, adding a fresh citrusy note that pairs perfectly with apples and cinnamon.
How to Make Apple Tiramisu (Step-by-Step)
1. Cook the Apples
Peel, core, and chop your apples, then simmer them with a dash of cinnamon and a spoonful of sugar or sweetener. You don’t need to turn them into a smooth applesauce – they’re actually better if you leave them a little chunky for texture.
You can cook your apples ahead and keep them chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble.
2. Prepare the Cream
In a bowl, whisk together mascarpone, plain Greek yogurt, honey, sweetener (if needed), and a splash of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Prep the Ladyfingers
Break your ladyfingers into smaller pieces so they fit into your dessert glasses. Quickly dip each piece into orange juice. Keep in mind that literally half a second per side is enough! They soak up liquid very quickly, so don’t overdo it or they’ll fall apart.
4. Assemble the Layers
Start with a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of each glass. Add a layer of cooked apples, then a spoonful of cream. Repeat the layers once more. Cover and refrigerate for at least a few hours to let the flavors soak in.
5. Decorate Before Serving
Just before serving, top with reserved biscuit crumbs and a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also add a drizzle of honey or a slice of apple for decoration.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Tiramisu
- Easy to assemble – No baking, no fuss, just layers.
- Great make-ahead dessert – Actually better after a few hours in the fridge.
- Lighter than the classic – But still super creamy and satisfying.
- Fall-friendly – Apples, cinnamon, and orange are a delicious combo.
- Portion control built-in – Serve in individual glasses for easy plating.
📌 Apple Tiramisu (Recipe Card)
Serves: 2–3
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: At least 2 hours
Category: Dessert
Make-Ahead Friendly
Ingredients
For the apples:
- 1 lb apples (about 3–4 medium), peeled and chopped
- 2 tsp sugar or sweetener
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Splash of water (optional, if apples are dry)
For the cream:
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey
- Sweetener to taste
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For layering:
- 5 ladyfingers
- ½ cup orange juice (for dipping)
- Cinnamon and crushed ladyfingers for topping
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Dessert glasses or jars (2 large or 3 small)
Instructions
- Cook the apples: In a small saucepan, combine chopped apples, sweetener, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and slightly caramelized. Let cool.
- Make the cream: In a bowl, mix mascarpone, Greek yogurt, honey, sweetener, and vanilla until smooth.
- Prepare the ladyfingers: Break ladyfingers into smaller pieces. Quickly dip each piece in orange juice – just enough to soften, not soak. Don’t throw away the crumbs of your biscuits!
- Assemble: In each glass, layer dipped ladyfingers, a spoonful of cooked apples, then the cream. Repeat once more. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Serve: Before serving, top with leftover biscuit crumbs and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
