I’ve always adored the creamy, coffee soaked layers of tiramisu, but classic recipes often contain dairy, eggs, and plenty of sugar. Determined to recreate the indulgent coffee chocolate harmony in a plant based form, I played with vegan creams, alternative sweeteners, and a cookie layer. When I saw Oreo cookies’ potential as a convenient “ladyfinger” substitute (they’re already vegan in many places), I knew I could simplify the process. Below, I’ll guide you through making this Easy Vegan Oreo Tiramisu in a healthier style by dialing back added sugars, incorporating nutrient dense elements, and relying on unsweetened plant based creams or yogurts. The result remains delightfully layered, rich, and reminiscent of the Italian favorite, just without dairy or eggs.
Prep Time, Chill Time, Approximate Calories, and Servings
- Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
- Chill Time: 3-4 hours (or overnight)
- Calories: ~250 per serving (depends on sweeteners, exact ingredients)
- Servings: 6-8
(Calorie estimate uses lower-sugar Oreos, minimal added sweetener, and moderate vegan cream components.)
Step-by-Step: Building a Vegan, Coffee Infused Dessert
1. Gather Your Base Components
Aim for:
- 1 pack of vegan friendly Oreo cookies (about 20-24 cookies). Check labels; ingredients vary by region.
- 1 cup of strong coffee or espresso (cooled). If you want a milder coffee flavor, dilute with water.
- 2 tablespoons of a keto friendly or natural sweetener (like erythritol, monk fruit, or minimal coconut sugar).
We’ll dip Oreos briefly in the coffee, then layer them with a smooth vegan cream mixture.
- Potential Pitfall: Overly sweet outcome if the sweetener and Oreos both contain lots of sugar.
- Active Fix: Choose a lower-sugar or thin Oreo variant if available, or reduce your sweetener.
2. Create a Lighter Vegan Cream Filling
In a medium bowl, blend:
- 1½ cups of coconut cream or cashew based cream cheese (look for unsweetened or lightly sweetened brands)
- ½ cup of plain vegan yogurt (provides tang and protein if it’s soy or pea based)
- 1 tablespoon of sweetener (again, keep it minimal)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Use a hand mixer or whisk until you achieve a smooth texture. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of non dairy milk to reach a spreadable consistency. Taste for balance, if it’s too tangy, add another pinch of sweetener. If you want a coffee laced filling, you can stir in 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder.
- Potential Pitfall: Grainy filling if coconut cream lumps or if the yogurt is separated.
- Active Fix: Warm coconut cream gently or whisk vigorously to smooth lumps. Let the yogurt come to room temperature to blend easily.
3. Prep the Coffee Dip
Pour your cooled coffee into a shallow dish. Stir in a ½ tablespoon of sweetener and an optional dash of rum extract or coffee liqueur if you’re comfortable with that (or keep it family friendly by skipping alcohol). Tiramisu traditionally has a boozy note, but it’s optional. The key is a deep coffee essence.
- Potential Pitfall: Over soaked Oreos that turn mushy.
- Active Fix: Dip each cookie very briefly, about 1–2 seconds per side, rather than letting them soak.
4. Assemble the First Layer
In an 8×8 inch dish or a similarly sized container, spread a thin layer of the vegan cream mixture, just enough to coat the bottom. One by one, dip an Oreo into the coffee dish, flip quickly, then lay it atop the cream. Continue with more Oreos until you form a single cookie layer, snugging them together with minimal gaps.
- Potential Pitfall: Soggy, disintegrating Oreos if you soak them too long.
- Active Fix: Work swiftly; if a cookie starts falling apart, set it aside or use it in the next layer as a crumb filler.
5. Add Cream and Second Layer
Spoon about half the remaining vegan cream over the Oreo layer, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. Repeat the dipping process for the second layer of Oreos. Top them with the final portion of the cream. If you have leftover Oreos, crumble them on top or save them for garnish.
- Potential Pitfall: Uneven layering if the dish is too large or small.
- Active Fix: Adjust layers accordingly. If you run out of cream, add a quick swirl of extra yogurt or a thinner final layer.
6. Chill for Flavor and Firmness
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the fridge for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight. This resting period allows the Oreos to soften, absorbing coffee and melding with the cream. Once set, the dessert slices more neatly.
- Potential Pitfall: Loose structure if not chilled enough.
- Active Fix: Extend chill time overnight if possible for a firmer slice.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove the chilled dessert from the fridge. If you like, dust the top lightly with unsweetened cocoa powder or grated sugar free chocolate. To portion, cut it into squares or scoop out servings with a large spoon. Plate them carefully, as the layers can be delicate. Optionally, top each portion with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a fresh berry.
- Potential Pitfall: Hard lumps if cocoa powder or grated chocolate isn’t sifted.
- Active Fix: Use a small sieve or a fine grater for an even dusting.
Nutrition Facts
A slice of vegan Oreo tiramisu (1/8 of the dish) may contain about:
- Calories: ~250
- Carbs: ~25-30g (from cookies and sweetener)
- Fat: ~10-12g (mainly from coconut cream, if used)
- Protein: ~4-5g (thanks to vegan yogurt/cream)
- Fiber: ~2-3g
By using fewer Oreos, a gentle sweetener, and a minimalistic approach to fats, you keep the dessert more moderate in calories and sugar than a classic tiramisu.
Tips for Maximum Freshness and Storage
Cover any leftovers tightly and store in the fridge for up to 3 days though the cookies may soften further over time, deepening the flavor. Freezing can lead to texture changes, so keep it chilled if possible. If you do freeze it, expect a slightly icy texture upon thawing.
- Advance Prep: You can assemble it fully a day before serving, making it a stress free dessert for gatherings.
A Personal Take on Flavor Additions
I like stirring ½ teaspoon of almond extract into the cream for a subtle twist that complements chocolate and coffee. If you crave a fruity note, layer in sliced strawberries or raspberries. Another approach is to replace half the Oreos with vegan graham crackers or a low sugar biscuit to reduce sweetness and add texture variety. For a coconutty vibe, swap some coconut cream in the filling and top with unsweetened coconut flakes.
Pairing Suggestions with Other Recipes
Serve your vegan Oreo tiramisu as a finishing treat after a savory meal, like a crisp salad or a pasta dish. If you’re hosting a dessert buffet, place it alongside fresh fruit or smaller sweets like Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs. For a beverage pairing, choose a simple unsweetened coffee or Rosemary Iced Tea from Easy Gym Recipes for a refreshing contrast to the creamy layers.
Meal Planner Note: This dessert is best considered an occasional treat in your meal rotation. If you track macros strictly, reduce portion sizes or sweeteners as needed and consult our downloadable planners for a balanced day.
Pin This Recipe for Later
Want a fuss free, plant based dessert that wows guests? Pin this Easy Vegan Oreo Tiramisu with the note: “Creamy, coffee laced, and dairy free, an easy layered treat!” That way, you’ll recall the method for your next dinner party or potluck.
Easy Vegan Oreo Tiramisu
Course: DessertCuisine: Italian-AmericanDifficulty: Easy6-8
servings20
minutes250
kcal3-4
hoursFollow us on Pinterest!
Ingredients
Vegan friendly Oreo cookies (1 pack)
Strong coffee or espresso (1 cup, cooled)
Vegan cream mixture (1½ cups coconut cream or cashew cream cheese + ½ cup plant based yogurt + sweetener)
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
Optional: unsweetened cocoa powder, grated sugar free chocolate
By assembling
- these layers coffee dipped Oreos, a smooth vegan cream, and minimal added sugar, you get a lighter take on a classic Italian dessert. The final product offers that characteristic coffee chocolate synergy and creamy middle without dairy, eggs, or a heavy sugar load. Each cool, luscious bite tastes like a small indulgence, proving vegan sweets can be both easy and crowd-pleasing. Enjoy your homemade dessert masterpiece!
Notes
- ✅ Chill for Best Results: Let the tiramisu sit in the fridge for at least 3 hours (or overnight) for perfect texture and flavor.
- ✅ Make it Nut Free: Use coconut cream instead of cashew based cream cheese for a completely nut free version.