This Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding is a creamy and tasty treat! Made with chia seeds and rich Greek yogurt, it’s a simple dessert that fills you up and keeps you happy.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix the ingredients, chill it in the fridge, and enjoy a healthy snack. Plus, it’s like having dessert for breakfast—who wouldn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are the star of the show! They expand and create a pudding-like texture when soaked. If you’re out of chia seeds, you could try flaxseeds, but the texture will be a bit different since they don’t thicken quite the same way.
Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk adds great flavor and keeps it dairy-free. You can use any milk you like—oat milk, coconut milk, or even regular cow’s milk if you prefer. Just be mindful of sweetened varieties as they can change the flavor.
Greek Yogurt: This gives a creamy richness to our pudding and increases the protein content. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, go for coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt. Just check that it’s unsweetened!
Maple Syrup/Honey: Both are natural sweeteners to enhance flavor. Feel free to swap them for agave syrup or even a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Pudding Texture?
Getting the right texture for your chia seed pudding is key. Start by whisking everything well to avoid clumps. After mixing, let it rest for about 5 minutes before whisking again. This step helps the chia seeds start absorbing liquid properly.
- Keep the bowl covered in the fridge for at least 4 hours, allowing it to thicken. Overnight is even better!
- Once you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir. If it’s too thick for your liking, just mix in a splash more milk until it’s the right consistency for you.
Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding With Greek Yogurt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Fresh mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, blackberries), for topping
- 1 small banana, sliced, for topping
- A few whole almonds, for topping
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding takes about 10 minutes to prepare. After that, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better! So, all in all, plan for about 4 hours and 10 minutes, or overnight if you want it ready for breakfast.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chia seeds, almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until everything is well blended. It should look nice and creamy!
2. Let It Rest:
Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes. This helps the chia seeds start soaking up the liquid. Then, give it another good whisk to break up any clumps of chia seeds that might have formed. You want a smooth mixture!
3. Refrigerate:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and put it in the fridge. You want to chill it for at least 4 hours or overnight. During this time, the pudding will thicken into a delightful consistency.
4. Serve the Pudding:
Once it’s chilled and thickened, stir the pudding gently to make sure it’s mixed well. Now it’s time to spoon it into serving glasses or bowls!
5. Add Toppings:
Top your pudding with fresh mixed berries, banana slices, and a sprinkle of whole almonds for a nice crunch. If you like, add a few mint leaves to make it extra fancy!
6. Enjoy!
Serve chilled and enjoy your nutritious and delicious vanilla chia seed pudding with Greek yogurt! It’s a perfect snack, dessert, or breakfast treat!
Can I Use Other Types of Milk?
Absolutely! While unsweetened almond milk is a great choice, you can use any milk you prefer, such as coconut milk, soy milk, or even dairy milk. Just keep in mind that flavored or sweetened milk can alter the overall taste!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken more in the fridge.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Other great options include nuts, seeds, granola, shredded coconut, or even a drizzle of nut butter for extra flavor and nutrition.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, and use maple syrup as a sweetener to keep it vegan. This way, it remains just as creamy and delicious!