Description

This Irresistible Caramel Banana Pudding Tiramisu combines the rich flavors of espresso-soaked ladyfingers with creamy mascarpone, luscious caramel sauce, and ripe bananas. A decadent twist on the classic tiramisu, this dessert layers smooth vanilla pudding and caramel-infused mascarpone for a sweet, creamy treat perfect for any occasion. Chilled to perfection, it delights with a blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

Scale

Liquid Ingredients

1 cup Strong Brewed Espresso or Coffee (decaf optional)
1 cup Caramel Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups Milk (for vanilla pudding mix)

Dairy

1 cup Mascarpone Cheese (or cream cheese alternative)
1 cup Heavy Cream (cold)

Fruits

2 Ripe Bananas (firm preferred)

Dry Ingredients

1 pack Vanilla Pudding Mix (instant)
1 pack Ladyfingers (or sponge cake as substitute)
1 cup Crushed Graham Crackers (optional, or substitute crushed cookies)

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Instructions

Prepare Coffee and Caramel Sauce: Brew 1 cup of strong espresso or coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. Warm 1 cup of caramel sauce gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it easier to mix.
Whip Cream and Mix Mascarpone: In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, combine 1 cup mascarpone cheese with about half a cup of the warmed caramel sauce until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
Make Vanilla Banana Pudding: Prepare the vanilla pudding following the package instructions, typically using 2 cups of milk. Once thickened, fold in 2 sliced ripe bananas for added flavor and texture.
Layer Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso for just a second to prevent sogginess. Arrange the soaked ladyfingers neatly in the bottom of your serving dish as the base layer.
Assemble Layers: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Next, layer half of the banana pudding on top and drizzle with some caramel sauce. Repeat the layering with the remaining mascarpone mixture, banana pudding, and more caramel drizzle.
Refrigerate to Set: Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with extra sliced bananas, a dollop of whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, and a final caramel drizzle for an irresistible finish.

Notes

Use decaf espresso or coffee if you want to avoid caffeine.
Choose firm but ripe bananas to maintain structure within the dessert layers.
For a quicker version, the dessert can be served after 2 hours but chilling overnight enhances flavor melding.
You can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese for a slightly tangier flavor.
Ladyfingers should be dipped briefly to avoid sogginess in the dessert.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness.