Tiramisu Overnight Oats – The Perfect Make-Ahead Breakfast

Four meal-prep jars of Tiramisu Overnight Oats on a marble counter.
Make once, enjoy all week.

When you think of tiramisu, your mind probably drifts to candlelit Italian cafés, indulgent layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and the luscious creaminess of mascarpone topped with cocoa. Now imagine capturing all of that magic—minus the heavy sugar—right in your breakfast bowl. That’s the beauty of Tiramisu Overnight Oats.

As Chef James, I’ve always believed that mornings should feel special, not rushed. I remember one winter in Florence, I had tiramisu for breakfast by accident—yes, breakfast! The bakery had sold out of pastries, and the only thing left was a small cup of tiramisu. I didn’t complain. That playful indulgence inspired me to create a healthier version: overnight oats that taste like dessert but power your day with protein, fiber, and slow-burning energy.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can keep it classic with espresso, make it kid-friendly without coffee, or boost it with protein powder after a workout. And like every great tiramisu variation, it’s no-bake, easy, and downright satisfying.

If you enjoy discovering new spins on this Italian classic, check out our Tiramisu Variations – 25 Modern Recipes You Need to Try. You’ll find endless inspiration to bring a little “dolce vita” to your table, any time of day.

Layering mascarpone cream over oats with espresso drizzle in Tiramisu Overnight Oats.
Step-by-step process of making Tiramisu Overnight Oats with creamy layers.

What ingredients do I need for Tiramisu Overnight Oats?

You only need simple pantry and fridge staples:

Rolled oats (or gluten-free oats)

Espresso or strong coffee

Mascarpone or Greek yogurt

Milk (dairy or plant-based)

Chia seeds (optional, for extra creaminess)

Vanilla extract

Cocoa powder for dusting

Honey, maple syrup, or stevia for sweetness

💡 Chef James Tip: For a lighter option, swap mascarpone with a mix of Greek yogurt and a splash of vanilla protein powder

How do you make Tiramisu Overnight Oats step by step?

Here’s a quick process:

Brew espresso and let it cool.

In a jar, mix oats, milk, chia seeds, vanilla, and sweetener.

Layer with mascarpone or Greek yogurt cream.

Pour a little espresso over the oats.

Refrigerate overnight.

In the morning, dust with cocoa powder and top with fresh berries or shaved chocolate.

Chef James recommends preparing several jars at once for effortless breakfast meal prep.

Can I make high-protein Tiramisu Overnight Oats?

bsolutely! Simply:

Add a scoop of vanilla or coffee-flavored protein powder.

Use Greek yogurt instead of mascarpone for a leaner protein boost.

Sprinkle with chopped nuts for crunch and extra nutrition.

👉 If you love protein-packed treats, check out our Protein Tiramisu.

Are Tiramisu Overnight Oats healthy?

Yes! Compared to classic tiramisu, this version is lower in sugar and higher in nutrients. Benefits include:

Oats: provide fiber to keep you full.

Coffee: natural energy boost.

Greek yogurt/mascarpone: adds protein and probiotics.

📌 According to the USDA Food Database, 1 cup of oats delivers 8g of protein and 4g of fiber, making it a solid base for a healthy breakfast.

Can I make Tiramisu Overnight Oats vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Just replace:

Mascarpone → cashew cream or coconut yogurt.

Milk → almond, oat, or soy milk.

Sweetener → maple syrup or agave.

This swap keeps it creamy and delicious while making it fully plant-based.

How long do Tiramisu Overnight Oats last in the fridge?

They last 3–4 days when stored in a sealed jar in the fridge. In fact, the flavors develop even better after the first night.

💡 Pro tip from Chef James: Prepare a batch of 3–4 jars on Sunday night, and you’ll have grab-and-go breakfasts ready for the week.

Do Tiramisu Overnight Oats taste like real tiramisu?

Yes! They carry the bold espresso notes, creamy layers, and cocoa finish you expect from tiramisu—just with a lighter, healthier twist. Many readers tell me it feels like eating dessert for breakfast without the guilt.

👉 For an even more coffee-forward pairing, sip a Tiramisu Latte on the side.

Q9. Can I skip the coffee in Tiramisu Overnight Oats?

Definitely. Replace the espresso with:

Hot chocolate or cacao for a kid-friendly option.

Decaf coffee if you’re avoiding caffeine.

Even matcha for a green tea twist.

👉 If you want another dessert that skips the coffee but keeps the tiramisu vibe, try our No-Bake Tiramisu Cake.

Q10. Can I make Tiramisu Overnight Oats gluten-free?

Yes—simply use certified gluten-free oats. They soak up the same creamy flavors and make this dish accessible to anyone with gluten sensitivities.

What’s the best coffee to use in Tiramisu Overnight Oats?

The best choice is strong espresso, just like in classic tiramisu. But you can also use:

Cold brew for a smoother flavor.

Instant espresso powder for convenience.

Decaf for late-night prep.

👉 Curious about coffee pairings? You might love reading our guide to Tiramisu Coffee.

Can kids eat Tiramisu Overnight Oats?

Yes—just make it without coffee. Swap in warm cocoa or milk, and you’ve got a creamy breakfast kids adore.

👉 For a sweet, kid-friendly tiramisu spin, try our Tiramisu Cupcakes.

Q13. Can I meal-prep Tiramisu Overnight Oats for the week?

Absolutely! They’re perfect for meal prep. Just:

Store each portion in a mason jar.

Keep refrigerated up to 4 days.

Add toppings like cocoa, berries, or nuts right before serving.

This makes them an ideal grab-and-go breakfast for busy families.

What toppings go well with Tiramisu Overnight Oats?

Some favorite toppings include:

Fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries).

Shaved dark or white chocolate.

Toasted almonds or walnuts.

A dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

👉 For more fruity inspiration, don’t miss our Mixed Berry Tiramisu

Where can I find more tiramisu-inspired desserts?

If you’re ready to keep exploring, we’ve got you covered. Check out:

For safety and storage tips, always review the USDA Food Safety guidelines.

Our ultimate pillar: Tiramisu Variations – 25 Modern Recipes You Need to Try.

Expert-tested guidance from Serious Eats.

Chef James preparing Tiramisu Overnight Oats in a bright kitchen.
Chef James’s dessert-for-breakfast favorite.

Conclusion

As we wrap up this journey into the world of Tiramisu Overnight Oats, it’s clear that this recipe is much more than a quick breakfast—it’s an experience. By merging the bold notes of espresso with the creaminess of mascarpone or Greek yogurt, and topping it all with that iconic cocoa dusting, you get the soul of tiramisu in a jar that you can prep the night before. For busy mornings, family brunches, or even a light dessert, this dish delivers indulgence without the fuss.

What makes overnight oats truly magical is their versatility. Want extra protein? Add a scoop of whey or swap in Greek yogurt. Need a dairy-free version? Coconut yogurt and almond milk are your best friends. Watching your sugar? A touch of stevia or monk fruit sweetener balances the flavor beautifully. Every household can adapt this recipe to its needs, making it a practical yet gourmet addition to the weekly meal plan.

From a nutritional perspective, oats are high in fiber, coffee brings natural antioxidants, and when paired with protein-rich yogurt, you have a balanced meal that fuels your morning with steady energy. And let’s not forget the joy factor: each spoonful feels like dessert, even though it’s a wholesome, make-ahead option. That’s the charm of recipes like this—where indulgence and health meet halfway.

If this recipe inspired you, I highly encourage you to explore more of our collection of Tiramisu Recipes, where you’ll discover everything from refreshing fruit variations to festive holiday spins. One day, you might wake up to a jar of Tiramisu Overnight Oats, and the next, you could be serving a Mango Tiramisu at a dinner party.

Now it’s your turn: whip up a batch tonight, let the flavors mingle in the fridge, and tomorrow morning, you’ll understand why this recipe has quickly become a favorite. And when you do, don’t forget to share your version in the comments—I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

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Tiramisu Overnight Oats in a glass jar with cocoa dusting and espresso swirl.

Tiramisu Overnight Oats – The Perfect Make-Ahead Breakfast

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Tiramisu Overnight Oats are a breakfast twist on the classic Italian dessert. Layered with oats, espresso, creamy mascarpone or yogurt, and a dusting of cocoa powder, this no-bake recipe offers indulgence with a healthy twist. Perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or a high-protein start to your day.

  • Total Time: 8 hours
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup rolled oats (or gluten-free oats)

1/2 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)

1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

1/4 cup mascarpone or Greek yogurt

1 tbsp chia seeds (optional)

1 tsp vanilla extract

12 tsp honey, maple syrup, or stevia (to taste)

1 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)

Optional toppings: fresh berries, shaved chocolate, toasted nuts

Instructions

1. Brew espresso and let it cool.

2. In a jar, mix oats, milk, chia seeds, vanilla, and sweetener.

3. Layer with mascarpone or Greek yogurt.

4. Pour espresso over oats mixture.

5. Refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours).

6. Dust with cocoa powder and add desired toppings before serving.

Notes

Use Greek yogurt + a scoop of vanilla protein powder for a high-protein version.

Make it kid-friendly by swapping coffee with hot cocoa or decaf.

Prepare 3–4 jars in advance for easy meal prep during the week.

Can be made vegan with coconut yogurt and plant-based milk.

  • Author: Tiramisu Cake
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 jar
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
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