Tiramisu Overnight Oats are a fun twist on the classic Italian dessert, turning rich coffee, creamy mascarpone flavors, and a touch of cocoa into a simple, healthy breakfast. This dish combines the smoothness of soaked oats with the delicious flavor of espresso and a sweet hint of vanilla, making mornings feel a little more special without any fuss.
I love how easy it is to prepare these oats the night before—just mix everything, pop the jar in the fridge, and wake up to a ready-made breakfast that tastes like a treat. The layers of coffee-infused oats and creamy yogurt remind me of enjoying a cozy café moment, but the best part is knowing it’s wholesome and filling enough to start the day right.
My favorite way to enjoy Tiramisu Overnight Oats is with a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top and a few chocolate shavings or nuts for added crunch. It’s a delicious breakfast that feels indulgent but comes together so quickly. If you’re like me and love easy breakfasts with big flavors, this one will become a steady favorite in your routine!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These give the creamy, chewy texture that makes overnight oats so satisfying. If you want a nuttier crunch, try old-fashioned oats instead. Avoid instant oats, as they’ll get too mushy.
Chia seeds: They soak up liquid and thicken the oats. You can skip them or swap with flaxseeds if preferred. They add fiber and help create that pudding-like layer.
Espresso or strong coffee: This adds the classic tiramisu coffee flavor. If you don’t drink coffee, decaf or a strong brewed tea could work too.
Greek yogurt or mascarpone: Greek yogurt is tangy and healthy, while mascarpone offers a rich, creamy texture like the traditional dessert. Use your favorite based on diet or taste.
Maple syrup or honey: Natural sweeteners that balance the bitter coffee and cocoa. Adjust the quantity to your sweetness preference, or try agave syrup for a vegan option.
Cocoa powder: Unsweetened works best to give a deep chocolate note without extra sugar. Dust generously for that final tiramisu look.
How Do I Layer and Soften the Oats for the Best Tiramisu Texture?
Layering creates the lovely contrast you see in tiramisu overnight oats. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix oats, chia seeds, coffee, milk, sweetener, and vanilla well to evenly soak the oats.
- Start by placing half the oat mixture in your jar; this lets the base soak properly.
- Add a smooth layer of yogurt or mascarpone—this gives that creamy richness.
- Sprinkle on a thin layer of cocoa powder to create a subtle chocolate barrier between layers.
- Repeat the oats and creamy layers to build visual appeal and delicious flavor.
- Cover and chill overnight so the oats soften fully and flavors meld beautifully.
- Before serving, dust with cocoa powder again for a fresh look and a hint of bitterness to balance sweetness.
Following this method gives you a creamy, coffee-flavored breakfast with just the right amount of texture and richness—true tiramisu inspiration in a simple jar!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl – I like it because it’s big enough to mix everything without spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy and consistency in flavors.
- Small jars or glasses with lids – perfect for layering and easy to store in the fridge.
- Spoon or spatula – helps you stir and layer the ingredients smoothly.
- Finishing sifter or fine mesh sieve – to dust cocoa powder evenly on top.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mascarpone for cream cheese or ricotta for a different creamy taste.
- Add a splash of coffee liqueur or vanilla extract for extra flavor depth.
- Mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts between layers for added crunch and richness.
- Use sweetened condensed milk or flavored syrup instead of honey or maple for a different sweetness.
How to Make Tiramisu Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (almond, cow’s milk, oat milk, etc.)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, plus more for dusting
- Coffee beans or chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then requires at least 4 hours (or overnight) in the fridge to let the oats and chia seeds soak and the flavors combine perfectly. The result is a creamy, flavorful breakfast ready when you wake up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Oats and Coffee Liquid:
In a medium bowl, stir together the rolled oats and chia seeds. Add the cooled brewed espresso or strong coffee, your choice of milk, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. Layer the First Half:
Divide half of the oat mixture into serving jars or glasses. This forms the base layer of your overnight oats.
3. Add Creamy Yogurt and Cocoa:
Spoon a layer of plain Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese on top of the oats. Then sprinkle a thin layer of unsweetened cocoa powder over the yogurt for that classic tiramisu flavor.
4. Layer the Remaining Oats and Cream:
Add the remaining oat mixture as the next layer, followed by the rest of the yogurt or mascarpone on top. Dust generously with cocoa powder to finish the look and add a rich chocolate taste.
5. Refrigerate and Serve:
Cover the jars or glasses and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours. This allows the oats and chia seeds to soak and soften while the flavors meld together.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Right before serving, garnish with coffee beans or chocolate shavings if you like. Enjoy your creamy, coffee-infused breakfast that tastes like tiramisu!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe because they soak up the liquid nicely without getting too mushy. Instant oats tend to become overly soft and lose texture.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Without Coffee?
Absolutely! You can replace the brewed espresso with decaf coffee, strong black tea, or even just milk for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that coffee is what gives this dish its classic tiramisu taste.
How Long Can I Store Tiramisu Overnight Oats?
Store the oats in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the texture is best within the first couple of days.
Can I Make This Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! Use a plant-based milk and swap Greek yogurt or mascarpone for dairy-free yogurt alternatives like coconut or almond-based yogurt. Choose maple syrup or agave as your sweetener to keep it fully vegan.
