Chia pudding is one of those rare dishes that manages to be both delicious and nutritious, offering a satisfying texture reminiscent of tapioca pudding without any refined sugar or dairy (unless you choose to add it). The magic lies in chia seeds’ natural ability to absorb liquid, expanding to create a thick, spoonable texture. It’s a perfect grab-and-go meal for busy mornings, post-workout recovery, or even a guilt-free dessert. Once you master the base recipe, you can easily experiment with different milks, sweeteners, and flavors.
Yield: 2 servings
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh berries
- Sliced banana
- Shredded coconut
- Granola
- Nuts or seeds
- Nut butter
Preparation
Step 1
In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together the chia seeds, milk, vanilla extract, sweetener, and salt until fully combined.
Step 2
Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir once more to prevent clumping. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, until the pudding is thick and creamy.
Step 3
Stir before serving and top with your favorite fruits or toppings.