Tiramisu Overnight Oats

Tiramisu Overnight Oats are a fun and delicious twist on a classic Italian dessert, turned into an easy-to-make breakfast. With creamy oats soaked overnight in coffee and sweet mascarpone flavors,…

By Julia • December 31, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Tiramisu Overnight Oats are a fun and delicious twist on a classic Italian dessert, turned into an easy-to-make breakfast. With creamy oats soaked overnight in coffee and sweet mascarpone flavors, plus a hint of cocoa powder on top, it’s like having a little treat to start your day. The texture is smooth and a bit rich, but still perfect for a healthy morning meal.

I love making these the night before because it means breakfast is ready to go when I wake up — no fuss, just grab and enjoy. Adding a touch of espresso or strong coffee really gives these oats a nice kick, and the mascarpone or cream cheese adds that creamy dreamy feel that makes it feel special. It’s something cozy and comforting but still fresh enough for the morning.

My favorite way to eat tiramisu overnight oats is with a sprinkle of cocoa powder and a few chocolate shavings or even some fresh berries on top. It feels like you’re starting the day with a dessert, but it’s packed with good stuff to keep you going. I’ve found this combo really hits the spot when I’m craving something sweet but want to keep things simple and healthy at the same time.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Rolled Oats & Chia Seeds: Rolled oats create a creamy texture after soaking. Chia seeds add thickness and little crunch. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can skip them or use flaxseeds instead.

Strong Brewed Coffee or Espresso: This gives the oats that classic tiramisu coffee flavor. If you prefer caffeine-free, try decaf coffee or even coffee-flavored syrup. Instant espresso powder works too and dissolves easily.

Mascarpone or Cream Cheese: Mascarpone adds rich creaminess which is key to the tiramisu feel. Cream cheese is a good substitute and a bit tangier. For a lighter or vegan version, use coconut cream or vegan cream cheese.

Maple Syrup or Honey: These natural sweeteners balance out the coffee bitterness. Agave syrup or brown sugar can be used if preferred.

Cocoa Powder & Dark Chocolate: Cocoa powder dusting and chocolate shavings add that essential cocoa flavor and texture contrast. Unsweetened cocoa powder is best; adjust chocolate type based on sweetness preference.

How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in Tiramisu Overnight Oats?

The key to creamy and thick overnight oats is letting them soak long enough and balancing wet and dry ingredients well.

• Use rolled oats, not instant, for better texture—it absorbs liquids without getting mushy.
• Chia seeds help thicken and add a pleasant bite, but they need time to absorb moisture too.
• Mix coffee with milk to keep flavor strong but creamy.
• Blend the mascarpone (or cream cheese) with yogurt until very smooth before layering—it makes the creamy topping lush and spreads easily.
• Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight, so oats fully soak and soften.
• If too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it up.

These tips help create the soft, rich layers that make the oats feel like dessert, but still fresh and easy to enjoy for breakfast!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – perfect for combining oats, chia seeds, and liquids easily.
• Measuring cups and spoons – help you get the right amounts for a balanced texture and flavor.
• Small whisk or fork – great for mixing mascarpone, yogurt, and cocoa powder smoothly.
• Spoon or spatula – makes layering the creamy mascarpone mixture simple and neat.
• Glass jars or small bowls with lids – ideal for storing overnight oats in the fridge and serving.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Use vanilla almond milk instead of plain milk for a subtle nutty sweetness that complements the coffee flavor.
• Add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa for an adult twist reminiscent of true tiramisu.
• Stir in a handful of chopped toasted nuts such as hazelnuts or almonds for crunch and warmth.
• Mix in fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to add a bright, fruity contrast that cuts through the richness.

Tiramisu Overnight Oats

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 3 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1/2 cup milk of choice (e.g., almond, oat, dairy)
• 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
• 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese or cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder, plus extra for garnish
• Dark chocolate shavings or chopped dark chocolate, for topping

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe requires about 10 minutes of hands-on prep time. The oats need to soak and thicken overnight (at least 6 hours) in the fridge, so plan ahead to enjoy the creamy deliciousness by morning.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Combine the Oats and Chia Seeds:

In a mixing bowl or jar, stir together the rolled oats and chia seeds until well combined.

2. Mix in Liquids and Flavorings:

Add the milk, cooled brewed coffee, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract to the oats mixture. Stir everything thoroughly so the oats and chia seeds start soaking up the liquid and flavors.

3. Refrigerate and Soak:

Cover the bowl or jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight. This lets the oats and seeds absorb the liquid and become soft and creamy.

4. Prepare the Creamy Cocoa Layer:

In a separate bowl, blend together the mascarpone (or cream cheese), Greek yogurt, and cocoa powder until smooth and creamy.

5. Layer Your Oats and Cream:

Take the soaked oat mixture and spoon half into a serving jar or dish. Spread a layer of the cocoa mascarpone cream over the oats, then top with the remaining oats mixture.

6. Finish and Serve:

Sprinkle cocoa powder over the top for that classic tiramisu look. Add dark chocolate shavings or chopped chocolate as a tasty topping. Serve immediately or keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead of Brewed Coffee?

Yes! Just dissolve 1 teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder in a little warm water, then let it cool before mixing with the oats. This works well if you don’t have brewed coffee on hand.

Can I Make Tiramisu Overnight Oats Vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk), vegan yogurt, and substitute mascarpone with vegan cream cheese or coconut cream for a creamy, dairy-free version.

How Long Do Overnight Oats Stay Fresh?

They keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For best flavor and texture, enjoy within the first 24-48 hours.

Can I Prepare This Without Chia Seeds?

Yes! Chia seeds mainly help thicken the oats, so you can omit them if you’re allergic or don’t have any. Just make sure to give the oats enough time to soak and thicken overnight.