Tiramisu-Inspired Oatmeal Parfait Recipe
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal Base:
- 2 cups (200 g) oatmeal
- 4 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/3 cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) espresso (or strong coffee)
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk of your choice (e.g., almond, soy, cow’s milk)
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) maple syrup
For the Creamy Layer:
- 1 cup (240 ml) Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mascarpone or cream cheese
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (for sweetening the yogurt mixture)
For Dusting:
- Cocoa powder
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oatmeal Base
Begin by creating the rich, chocolatey oatmeal base. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of oatmeal with 4 tablespoons of chia seeds. The chia seeds will add a pleasant texture and boost the nutritional value with healthy fats and fiber. Add 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mix, giving the oatmeal a deep, chocolate flavor reminiscent of tiramisu.
Next, pour in 1/2 cup of freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee, which infuses the oatmeal with a bold coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with the cocoa. Add 2 cups of your preferred milk, whether it’s almond, soy, or cow’s milk, followed by 1/3 cup of maple syrup for sweetness. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the oats to absorb the liquid, soften, and develop a creamy texture, making it the perfect base for your parfait.
2. Prepare the Creamy Layer
While the oatmeal is setting, prepare the creamy layer that will add a rich and smooth contrast to the chocolatey oats. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons of mascarpone or cream cheese. The mascarpone will give the mixture a luxurious texture, similar to the cream found in traditional tiramisu.
Sweeten the creamy layer with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, adjusting the sweetness to your taste. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. This creamy layer will not only add a delightful richness but also a tangy balance to the sweetness of the oats.
3. Assemble the Parfaits
Once the oatmeal has fully absorbed the liquid and softened, it’s time to assemble the parfaits. In your serving glasses or bowls, start by adding a layer of the oatmeal mixture. The rich, coffee-flavored oats create a sturdy base for the parfait.
Next, add a layer of the creamy yogurt mixture. The contrast between the dark, chocolatey oats and the light, creamy yogurt mimics the layers of a traditional tiramisu, both in flavor and appearance. Continue layering, alternating between the oatmeal and yogurt mixtures, until you reach the top of your glass. Aim to end with a layer of the creamy yogurt mixture for a visually appealing presentation.
4. Finish and Serve
For the final touch, dust the top layer with cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve. This step not only enhances the tiramisu-inspired look but also adds a slight bitterness that complements the sweetness of the parfait.
Serve the parfaits immediately for a fresh and delicious breakfast, or refrigerate them until ready to enjoy. These parfaits can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient and luxurious option for busy mornings.