Tiramisu Overnight Oats are a fun twist on two favorite treats rolled into one: the classic Italian dessert tiramisu and a hearty, no-fuss breakfast. Imagine creamy oats soaked overnight with a hint of coffee and cocoa, layered with a smooth mascarpone-inspired yogurt mix that gives you that signature tiramisu feel without all the fuss.
I love making this recipe because it feels a bit like having dessert for breakfast, but with all the good stuff that keeps me going through the morning. The best part is you just mix everything the night before, toss it in the fridge, and wake up to a ready-made, delicious breakfast that’s both comforting and a little special. Adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top in the morning is my favorite finishing touch.
This dish is perfect for busy mornings when you want something tasty but don’t have a lot of time to cook. I often take it on-the-go or pack it for work mornings, and it always feels like a little treat. If you like your oats creamy with a touch of coffee flavor, this one will quickly become a breakfast favorite in your house too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These are the base and give a creamy texture overnight. Quick oats could work but may get too mushy. Steel-cut oats need longer soaking.
Tapioca pearls: Optional but add fun chewiness. If you can’t find them, just skip or swap with small sago pearls.
Milk: Any milk works—dairy, almond, oat, or soy. I like almond milk for a slight nutty taste that pairs well with coffee.
Brewed coffee: This gives the signature tiramisu flavor. Use espresso or strong coffee. Decaf works fine if you avoid caffeine.
Mascarpone or Greek yogurt: Mascarpone adds richness and creaminess like tiramisu. Greek yogurt is a lighter, tangier swap that works well too.
Maple syrup or honey: Sweetness is key here. Maple syrup adds a subtle richness, honey adds floral notes. Adjust to your taste.
Cocoa powder: For that classic dusting and chocolate flavor. Use unsweetened cocoa to avoid extra sugar. Plus a little more dusted on top looks nice!
How Do You Get Perfect Creamy Layers in Overnight Oats?
Layering is what makes these oats special and pretty. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix your oat and coffee blend first, along with any mix-ins like chocolate chips.
- Separately, whip mascarpone or yogurt with cocoa powder until smooth and creamy.
- In a glass or jar, spoon a layer of oats, then a layer of the mascarpone cream.
- Repeat for 2-3 layers, ending with mascarpone. This makes each spoonful creamy and flavourful.
- Cover and chill overnight so oats soak and mascarpone sets slightly.
- Don’t skip dusting cocoa powder on top before serving—it gives a nice finish and boost of chocolate flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Glass jars or small bowls – perfect for layering and easy to refrigerate.
- Mixing bowls – helpful for preparing layers separately.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring and layering your oats evenly.
- Fine sieve or sifter – to dust with cocoa powder smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use mascarpone cheese for a richer, authentic tiramisu flavor. Greek yogurt keeps it lighter but still creamy.
- Stir in a splash of peppermint extract or add crushed cookies like biscotti for extra texture.
- Mix in a handful of chopped nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, for crunch and added flavor.
- Replace chocolate chips with white chocolate or sprinkle in cinnamon for a different spice note.
How to Make Tiramisu Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Oats Mixture:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup tapioca pearls (optional, for texture)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp dark chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the Creamy Layer:
- 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder (plus extra for dusting)
For Garnish:
- Cinnamon stick
- Whole coffee beans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 6 hours (preferably overnight) to chill in the fridge. The soaking allows the oats to soften and the flavors to blend, so plan ahead for a tasty, ready-to-eat breakfast in the morning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tapioca Pearls (Optional):
If you’re using tapioca pearls, cook them according to the package instructions until they become translucent. Drain well and let them cool to room temperature before mixing with the oats.
2. Make the Oats Mixture:
In a bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, cooked tapioca pearls (if using), milk, cooled strong brewed coffee, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to mix.
3. Prepare the Creamy Cocoa Layer:
In a separate bowl, blend the mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt with cocoa powder until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Chocolate Chips:
Fold the dark chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips into the oats mixture carefully.
5. Layer the Oats and Cream:
In a glass jar or bowl, layer your mixture starting with oats, then a layer of the cocoa mascarpone cream. Repeat layers until your container is full, finishing with a creamy top layer.
6. Chill Overnight:
Cover the container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the oats to soften and flavors to marry.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, dust a generous layer of cocoa powder on top. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a few whole coffee beans for a classic tiramisu look and extra aroma. Enjoy your creamy, mocha-flavored breakfast delight!
Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead of Brewed Coffee?
Yes! Simply dissolve 1 to 2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules in a small amount of hot water, let it cool, and add it to the oats. This is a quick alternative if you don’t have brewed coffee on hand.
Can I Prepare This Without Tapioca Pearls?
Absolutely! Tapioca pearls are optional and add texture, but you can skip them and still enjoy delicious tiramisu overnight oats. The oats and creamy layers provide plenty of flavor and creaminess on their own.
How Long Can I Store Tiramisu Overnight Oats?
Store the oats covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, and add a bit more milk if you want to loosen the texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based milk and replace mascarpone with a dairy-free yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt. Make sure your cocoa powder and chocolate chips are dairy-free, and enjoy a vegan-friendly version.