This guilt-free tiramisu combines the classic Italian flavors you love with wholesome oats and natural sweetness from bananas. This no-bake dessert creates layers of coffee-infused oats topped with creamy mascarpone, delivering all the indulgence of traditional tiramisu without refined sugar. Perfect for those seeking a healthier dessert option that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Oat Base:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 160g (1⅓ cups) rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee or 100ml (⅓ cup) strong espresso
- 100ml (⅓ cup) warm water
For the Cream Layer:
- 100g (½ cup) Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mascarpone or cream cheese
For Garnish:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
Preparing the Coffee Oat Base
- Prepare coffee mixture: If using instant coffee, dissolve 1 teaspoon in 100ml warm water. If using espresso, let it cool to room temperature.
- Mash bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth and creamy, leaving minimal lumps.
- Combine dry ingredients: Add rolled oats and 1 tablespoon cocoa powder to the mashed bananas. Mix well to combine.
- Add coffee: Pour the coffee mixture into the oat mixture and stir thoroughly until all oats are evenly moistened and the mixture holds together.
Creating the Cream Layer
- Prepare cream mixture: In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt and mascarpone (or cream cheese). Mix until smooth and well blended.
Assembling the Tiramisu
- Layer the base: Press the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of serving glasses, bowls, or one larger dish to create an even base layer.
- Add cream layer: Gently spread the yogurt-mascarpone mixture over the oat base, creating a smooth top layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve.
Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 individual portions or 1 large serving dish
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 5g
- Natural sugars: 12g (from bananas)
Why This Dessert is a Smart Choice
This innovative tiramisu alternative provides sustained energy from complex carbohydrates in oats while delivering protein and probiotics from Greek yogurt. The natural sweetness comes entirely from ripe bananas, which also contribute potassium and vitamin B6. Oats provide beta-glucan fiber that helps regulate blood sugar and supports heart health, while the cocoa adds antioxidants without refined sugar. The coffee provides a small amount of caffeine and antioxidants, and the mascarpone adds calcium and protein. This dessert satisfies sweet cravings while providing actual nutritional benefits, making it suitable for those managing blood sugar levels or anyone seeking a more wholesome dessert option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.