If you adore the rich, indulgent flavors of classic Italian tiramisu but want a breakfast that’s quick, healthy, and ready to grab on the go, then the Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful twist on overnight oats captures the creamy mascarpone notes, the comforting hint of coffee, and a dusting of cocoa powder, all layered perfectly for a satisfyingly smooth and luscious morning treat. It’s like waking up to dessert for breakfast, but packed with nutritious oats and just the right touch of sweetness. Let me take you through every step of crafting this irresistible fusion of flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance in this Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe is all about the right ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the soaked oats that become tender yet toothsome, to the rich mascarpone or Greek yogurt giving that luxurious texture, and the coffee brewing that unmistakable tiramisu character. Here’s what you need to create this flavorful morning indulgence.
- ½ cup rolled oats: The hearty base that softens overnight while soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- ½ cup brewed coffee (cooled): Adds that signature bold, slightly bitter note essential for a tiramisu vibe.
- ½ cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy): Keeps the mixture creamy and smooth while accommodating any dietary preference.
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey: Natural sweetness to perfectly balance the coffee’s intensity.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Enhances depth with a warm, comforting aroma.
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese: The creamy heart of the recipe, making it decadently soft and rich.
- 1 tbsp cream cheese (optional): Adds extra creaminess and that authentic tiramisu texture.
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional): Sweetens the cream mixture just enough without overwhelming.
- ½ tsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting): The final flourish that infuses each bite with classic tiramisu flavor.
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish): A little texture and elegance to make it feel special.
How to Make Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oats
Grab a mixing bowl and combine your rolled oats with the cooled brewed coffee, milk of your choice, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir these together until everything is nicely blended. Let it rest for about 5 minutes – this helps the oats start absorbing all those rich flavors, setting the groundwork for a deeply satisfying bite.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together your plain Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese, cream cheese if you’re using it, and powdered sugar until smooth. This creamy layer is the soul of your Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe, echoing the luscious mascarpone cream that tiramisu is famous for, and providing dreamy texture contrast to the soaked oats.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Now for the fun part — take a clean jar or glass and start with a layer of your oats mixture, spooning it in gently. Next, add a layer of the creamy yogurt or mascarpone blend. Repeat these layers once more, ending with the creamy mixture on top. This layering mimics the classic tiramisu look and gives you bites full of alternating textures and flavors.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Refrigerate
Dust the very top with a generous sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa powder. If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings on as well for an extra touch of indulgence. Cover your jar tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, then pop it in the fridge for at least 6 hours or, ideally, overnight. This gives the oats enough time to soak up all the delicious components and develop that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
How to Serve Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of cocoa powder and some dark chocolate shavings are classic, but why stop there? You can add a few espresso beans or a tiny dollop of mascarpone on top for a luxe finishing touch. The visual contrast of the deep cocoa against the creamy layer instantly makes this a breakfast that feels special and inviting.
Side Dishes
The beauty of this Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe is how wonderfully it pairs with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or raspberries, which add a refreshing burst of color and tartness to balance the creaminess. A handful of crunchy nuts or a crisp side of toasted bread with a smear of butter also complements the creamy oats beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress at brunch, serve the oats in elegant glass jars or clear bowls to showcase the luscious layers. Adding a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cinnamon on top brings extra flair. For an on-the-go option, layer it in a portable mason jar ready to grab and go while maintaining all the charm and taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because this recipe is designed as an overnight oats dish, it’s perfect for make-ahead breakfasts. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the oats might become softer over time, which some people actually adore.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this particular Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe because the creamy yogurt and mascarpone can separate or change texture once frozen and thawed, leading to a less pleasant mouthfeel. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge.
Reheating
This dish is best served cold or at room temperature to preserve the delicate textures and flavors. If you prefer it warmer, gently heat in a microwave-safe bowl for short intervals, stirring in between, but beware of breaking down the creaminess that makes this recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Absolutely! Instant coffee dissolved in hot water works well, just make sure it’s cooled completely before mixing with the oats to avoid cooking them prematurely.
Is it possible to make this vegan?
Yes, you can swap out the dairy milk for almond, soy, or oat milk, and use a plant-based yogurt and vegan cream cheese alternative to keep it fully vegan-friendly.
How sweet should I make it?
The amount of sweetener can be adjusted to your taste. Start with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey and add more if you prefer a sweeter touch. Remember, the cocoa powder adds a slight bitterness that balances sweetness well.
Can I prepare a larger batch?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you want. It stores well and makes for an easy, grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week.
What does mascarpone add compared to Greek yogurt?
Mascarpone adds a richer, creamier texture and a more authentic tiramisu flavor, while Greek yogurt provides a tangier taste and is a lighter, higher-protein alternative.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and exciting about waking up to the flavors of a classic dessert transformed into a nutritious breakfast, and this Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe delivers just that. It’s a simple yet luxurious way to start your day with a smile, and once you try it, you’ll find it’s a recipe worth repeating again and again. So go ahead, give it a whirl, and treat yourself to a breakfast that tastes like a little celebration every morning!
Print
Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tiramisu Overnight Oats recipe combines the classic flavors of tiramisu with a nutritious and convenient overnight oats preparation. Infused with brewed coffee and layered with a creamy mascarpone or Greek yogurt mixture, this no-cook breakfast is sweetened with maple syrup and finished with cocoa powder and optional dark chocolate shavings for an indulgent yet healthy start to your day.
Ingredients
Oats Mixture
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup brewed coffee (cooled)
- ½ cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Creamy Mixture
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese
- 1 tbsp cream cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
Toppings
- ½ tsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oats: In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brewed coffee, milk, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the oats to start absorbing the liquid.
- Make the Creamy Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese, cream cheese (if using), and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Layer the Ingredients: Take a jar or a container with a lid and layer the oats mixture and the creamy mixture alternately. Begin with a layer of oats mixture, then add a layer of the creamy yogurt, and repeat to fill the jar.
- Add Toppings: Dust the top layer with unsweetened cocoa powder for that signature tiramisu touch. Optionally, garnish with dark chocolate shavings to enhance flavor and presentation.
- Refrigerate: Cover the jar or container with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight. This resting time allows the oats to fully soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and enjoy this tiramisu-inspired overnight oats chilled as a delicious and energy-boosting breakfast or snack.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey according to your taste.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free yogurt alternative, and replace honey with maple syrup.
- This recipe can be doubled or tripled to serve more people and stored in separate jars for convenience.
- If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso or concentrate your brewed coffee before mixing.
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add an extra layer of flavor to the creamy mixture.
