Tiramisu Overnight Oats Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could eat dessert for breakfast without a hint of guilt, these tiramisu overnight oats are your dream come true. Imagine waking up to a creamy, coffee-flavored breakfast that’s as delicious as a slice of tiramisu but packed with the wholesome goodness of oats and yogurt. This easy recipe lets you do all the work the night before, so all you have to do in the morning is grab a spoon and enjoy.

I’ve loved tiramisu for as long as I can remember, but let’s be real: it’s not exactly a “grab-and-go” meal. One morning, as I was stirring together my usual overnight oats, I thought, “Why not add a little coffee and cocoa magic here?” And just like that, these tiramisu-inspired overnight oats became my new favorite breakfast. They’re indulgent, creamy, and a bit of a caffeine kick all in one jar.

this RECIPE

The classic inspiration behind tiramisu oats

Tiramisu, the iconic Italian dessert, is all about layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. The name “tiramisu” literally translates to “pick me up” – a fitting name for a dessert loaded with coffee and cream. While our tiramisu overnight oats aren’t layered quite like the traditional dessert, they borrow those same flavors: rich coffee, creamy “cheesecake” topping, and a hint of chocolate. It’s like breakfast and dessert decided to meet halfway and make something wonderful.

Let’s talk ingredients: the essentials for that tiramisu flavor

Each ingredient in this recipe adds something special to recreate the tiramisu vibe, without the fuss.

• Oats: Rolled oats or quick oats both work here. Rolled oats will give a slightly chewier texture, while quick oats make a creamier consistency. Oats are the foundation of this breakfast – filling, nutritious, and full of fiber.
• Milk: You can use any milk you like, from dairy to almond, soy, or oat milk. I often go with almond milk for a subtle nutty flavor, but any milk will keep the oats creamy.
• Instant coffee or espresso powder: This is the heart of that tiramisu flavor. I like to use instant espresso powder for a stronger coffee taste, but instant coffee works great too. If you prefer a milder taste, just adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Sweetener: Feel free to use whatever sweetener you like, whether it’s honey, maple syrup, agave, or a low-calorie option like stevia. A touch of sweetness brings out the coffee flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla is the supporting actor here, adding warmth and depth to balance the coffee. Just a tiny bit makes a big difference.
• Salt: Don’t skip the salt! A pinch helps bring out all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Yogurt (or vegan cream cheese): This is your “mascarpone” layer! Yogurt adds creaminess and a little tang that mimics the flavor of mascarpone. Greek yogurt is a great choice for extra creaminess, or use a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.
• Cocoa powder: A dusting of cocoa powder on top is essential for the true tiramisu experience. It’s that little hint of chocolate that brings the whole thing together.

Kitchen gear you’ll need

Good news – no fancy equipment required here! But a few tools will make life easier:

• Mason jar or lidded container: A jar with a lid is perfect for overnight oats. It’s easy to shake everything together, and you can just grab it from the fridge in the morning.
• Spoon or spatula: For mixing everything well. If you’re adding protein powder, a small whisk can help prevent clumping.
• Small strainer or sifter: Optional, but useful for getting a smooth, even dusting of cocoa powder on top.

Step-by-step: my foolproof method for tiramisu overnight oats

1. Combine the ingredients: In your mason jar or container, add the oats, milk, instant coffee or espresso powder, sweetener, vanilla, salt, and any optional add-ins (like chia seeds or cinnamon). If you’re adding protein powder, toss that in now too. Give it a good stir, or just pop the lid on and shake until everything is combined.
2. Chill overnight: Place the jar in the fridge and let it sit for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight. The oats will soak up the liquid and soften, while the coffee and vanilla blend to give that classic tiramisu flavor.
3. Add the “mascarpone” layer: In the morning, grab your jar and smooth a layer of yogurt or vegan cream cheese on top. This step is key for getting that creamy, dessert-like finish. You could even mix a little vanilla and sweetener into the yogurt for extra flavor.
4. Finish with cocoa powder: For the final touch, dust a little cocoa powder on top of the yogurt layer. You can sift it for a fine layer, or sprinkle it on for a rustic look. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a few mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs make a fun topping.
5. Dig in and enjoy: Now you’re ready to dive into your tiramisu-inspired breakfast! Stir it all together, or enjoy each layer separately – however you like.

Make it your own: fun variations to try

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations I’ve tried and loved:

• Vegan version: Use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and a vegan yogurt or cream cheese for the topping. Maple syrup or agave make great vegan-friendly sweeteners, too.
• High-protein option: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the oats mixture. Vanilla or unflavored protein powder works well and blends smoothly. Greek yogurt also bumps up the protein content.
• Decaf version: If you’re sensitive to caffeine or making these for kids, use decaf instant coffee powder. You’ll still get the flavor without the buzz.
• Chia seed addition: For extra texture and fiber, add a tablespoon of chia seeds to the oats before refrigerating. They’ll absorb some of the liquid and make the mixture thicker.

Serving ideas to make it feel special

These tiramisu overnight oats are delightful on their own, but a little presentation goes a long way! Try serving them in a clear glass or mason jar so you can see the layers – it looks just like a mini tiramisu. Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for a pop of color, or sprinkle some shaved dark chocolate if you’re serving these at a brunch.

Pair with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced bananas, to add a burst of color and sweetness. For extra crunch, you could top with crushed graham crackers or biscotti crumbs to mimic the texture of ladyfingers in traditional tiramisu.

Drink pairings to complete the meal

To complement the rich, creamy flavors of the tiramisu oats, I love serving them with a warm drink. Here are a few favorites:

• Iced coffee or cold brew: Perfect if you want an extra coffee boost with breakfast.
• Vanilla chai latte: The warm spices of chai pair beautifully with the coffee and cocoa flavors in the oats.
• Hot chocolate: For a chocolate lover’s dream breakfast, try a cup of hot chocolate alongside your oats.
• Almond milk latte: The nutty flavor of almond milk makes a great match for the tiramisu notes, and you can even dust a little cocoa on top of the latte foam for fun.

Storing and reheating tips

These overnight oats are best enjoyed fresh from the fridge, but they’ll keep for 2-3 days in a sealed container. Just make sure to add the yogurt and cocoa powder right before eating, so they stay fresh and don’t get soggy.

If you like your oats warm, you can microwave them for 30-60 seconds before adding the yogurt. They won’t be as thick if heated, but it’s still delicious!

Adjusting the recipe for different serving sizes

This recipe is easy to adjust for multiple servings. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and divide them between jars or containers. If you’re making a big batch, keep the oats mixture in a large bowl, then portion it out and add toppings in the morning. One thing I’ve noticed is that adding too much coffee powder can make a big batch overly bitter, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Potential pitfalls and friendly fixes

• Too thick? Add a splash more milk in the morning and give it a stir to loosen it up.
• Not sweet enough? Drizzle a little extra sweetener on top. Honey, maple syrup, or even a sprinkle of brown sugar all work well.
• Bitter coffee taste: If you’re sensitive to bitterness, reduce the coffee powder slightly or add a touch more sweetener.

Try these tiramisu overnight oats for a breakfast twist!

I hope you enjoy this easy, delicious twist on tiramisu as much as I do. There’s something so satisfying about waking up to a breakfast that feels indulgent and comforting, especially when it’s ready to go. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to make it your own – whether you add extra coffee, switch up the milk, or toss in a handful of chocolate chips, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. Enjoy!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats are too firm for this recipe and won’t soften as much. Stick with rolled or quick oats for the best texture.

2. Can I skip the coffee if I don’t like the taste?
Absolutely! You can leave out the coffee or substitute it with a small amount of cocoa powder for a more chocolatey version.

3. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use certified gluten-free oats, and the rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free.

4. What’s the best way to sweeten these oats?
It’s up to you! Try honey, maple syrup, agave, or a low-calorie sweetener like stevia. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

5. How far in advance can I prepare these?
These oats will stay fresh for 2-3 days in the fridge. Just add the yogurt and cocoa powder right before eating for the best texture.

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