Tiramisu Overnight Oats are a fun twist on a classic Italian dessert turned into a healthy breakfast treat! Creamy oats soaked overnight in coffee, mixed with a bit of cocoa and sweetened mascarpone-style yogurt make a rich, comforting start to the day. You get all those familiar tiramisu flavors with the ease and goodness of overnight oats—soft, flavorful, and ready when you wake up.
I love making these the night before because it’s so simple—just mix everything, pop it in the fridge, and come morning, you have a delicious breakfast waiting for you. It’s a great way to enjoy a little sweet kick without the guilt, and the coffee flavor gives you a gentle wake-up call. Sometimes I sprinkle a bit of cocoa powder or mix in some dark chocolate chips for a little extra fun.
These oats are perfect served in a glass jar or bowl with a dusting of cocoa on top, and maybe a few fresh berries or a handful of chopped nuts if you want an added crunch. It’s one of those easy breakfasts that feels like a treat but keeps you full and energized well into the morning. I find it especially good when I’m craving something cozy but need to stay on track with my breakfast routine.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These are the best for overnight oats because they soak up liquids well and get soft without getting mushy. You can swap for old-fashioned oats if that’s what you have, but avoid quick oats—they get too mushy.
Espresso or strong coffee: This adds the classic tiramisu flavor. If you don’t do caffeine, try decaf coffee or strong brewed chicory tea. Cold brew works nicely too for a smooth taste.
Greek yogurt: It gives creaminess and protein. I like to use mascarpone or mascarpone-flavored yogurt for a richer tiramisu vibe. For dairy-free, coconut or almond yogurt works well.
Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds chocolate flavor and that beautiful dusting on top. Dutch-processed cocoa is milder, but regular natural cocoa works fine. You can omit it for a less chocolatey taste.
Honey or maple syrup: These are natural sweeteners. Adjust the amount to your taste, or try agave syrup or coconut sugar. You can leave it out if your yogurt is already sweetened.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in Tiramisu Overnight Oats?
This recipe relies on soaking oats overnight to soften and absorb all the flavors. Here are some tips to get the texture just right:
- Mix well: Stir all ingredients thoroughly so oats, liquids, and yogurt are evenly combined. This prevents clumps and helps flavors meld.
- Chill for at least 6 hours: Overnight is best to let oats soften fully and flavors develop.
- Adjust consistency: In the morning, if the oats are too thick, add a little more milk (a tablespoon at a time) until it reaches your ideal creaminess.
- Use chia seeds: Optional but helpful—they soak liquid and add thickness without changing flavor much.
To serve, layering the oats with the creamy yogurt mix and topping with cocoa powder and chocolate shavings gives the dish that classic tiramisu look and texture that’s both rich and light.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small mixing bowl or jar – I like using a jar because it’s easy to shake and store leftovers.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the perfect amount of oats, coffee, and sweetener.
- Fork or spoon – for stirring everything together and mixing well.
- Spoon for serving – helps you nicely layer and top your oats.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein boost: Mix in a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder for extra nutrition.
- Cheesecake twist: Replace Greek yogurt with mascarpone for a richer, creamier taste.
- Fruit bits: Stir in chopped strawberries or bananas before refrigerating for added freshness.
- Nuts and seeds: Top with chopped almonds, walnuts, or extra chia seeds for crunch and texture.
How to Make Tiramisu Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Oats Mixture:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- ⅓ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or mascarpone/mascarpone-flavored yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrition)
- Pinch of salt
For Topping:
- 2 tablespoons dark chocolate shavings or finely chopped dark chocolate
- Optional: dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes to prepare your overnight oats. Then, refrigerate the mixture for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, so the oats soften and soak up all the delicious flavors. In the morning, just a few minutes to stir and add toppings, and your tasty tiramisu-inspired breakfast is ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients
In a bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, cooled espresso or strong coffee, milk, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, chia seeds (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything well so it’s all evenly mixed.
2. Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the mixture and put it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 6 hours or overnight so the oats soak up the liquid and become soft and creamy.
3. Stir and Adjust
The next morning, take the oats out and give them a good stir. If it seems too thick, add a little milk, a splash at a time, until you get the texture you like.
4. Serve and Top
Spoon the tiramisu oats into a glass or jar, smoothing out the top. Dust generously with cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look and flavor. Sprinkle on the dark chocolate shavings or chopped chocolate for a little crunch and extra richness. If you want an indulgent touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone before the cocoa dusting.
5. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy a creamy, coffee-flavored breakfast that tastes like your favorite dessert but keeps things healthy and simple.
Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead of Espresso?
Yes, instant coffee works fine if you don’t have espresso. Just dissolve the instant coffee granules in hot water, let it cool completely, and then use it in the recipe.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative such as coconut or almond yogurt. Make sure the chocolate you use is also dairy-free.
How Long Can I Store Tiramisu Overnight Oats?
Store the oats covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before eating; you might want to add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Can I Prepare a Larger Batch in Advance?
Yes! You can easily multiply the ingredients to make several servings and store them in individual jars in the fridge. Just add the toppings fresh when serving for the best texture.