This creamy vanilla chia seed pudding is the perfect treat! It’s made with nutritious chia seeds, thick Greek yogurt, and a hint of vanilla for a sweet flavor.
What’s great is that it can be made ahead of time, so I enjoy it for breakfast or a snack. Plus, the texture is fun with those little chia seeds. Who doesn’t like a little jiggle in their dessert? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are the stars of this pudding. They absorb liquid and create a gel-like texture. If you don’t have chia seeds, flaxseeds can work as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly different.
Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk is a great dairy-free option. You can use any milk you prefer, like coconut milk or regular dairy milk. Each choice gives a distinct flavor—coconut milk adds creaminess!
Greek Yogurt: I recommend plain Greek yogurt for its thick consistency and tangy flavor. Feel free to substitute with regular yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt for a vegan option.
Sweetener: Honey adds a lovely sweetness, but you can replace it with maple syrup for a vegan treat. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference; I usually prefer less sweet.
Berries: Fresh raspberries are delightful, but you can mix in strawberries, blueberries, or even banana slices. Frozen berries also work if fresh isn’t available, though they can make the pudding a bit watery.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Chia Seed Texture?
Getting the right texture for your chia seed pudding is key! Here’s how to make it just right:
- After mixing the ingredients, let the chia seeds sit for about 5 minutes and stir once more. This helps any clumps separate.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight if you can. This allows the chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and expand.
- Before serving, check the consistency; if it’s too thick, gently stir in a splash of milk to desired thickness.
Enjoy your pudding chilled—it’s a great start to the day or a refreshing dessert!
How to Make Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding With Greek Yogurt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chia Seeds: 1/4 cup
- Milk: 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- Greek Yogurt: 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Sweetener: 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Vanilla: 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Fruit Topping: Fresh raspberries (or mixed berries)
- Nuts (optional): A few almonds or sliced nuts for garnish
- Mint (optional): Fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chia seed pudding takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus at least 3 hours (or overnight) to chill. So, it’s quick to make, and then it just needs a little time to set. Perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix All Ingredients Together:
In a medium mixing bowl or a jar, combine the chia seeds, almond milk, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. You want the chia seeds evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
2. Allow Mixture to Thicken:
After mixing, let the chia pudding sit for about 5 minutes. This is an important step! Stir it again after 5 minutes to break up any clumps of seeds and ensure they’re all soaking up the liquid.
3. Refrigerate:
Cover the bowl or jar with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the fridge and let it chill for at least 3 hours or overnight. This helps the pudding become rich and creamy as the chia seeds swell in the liquid.
4. Final Touch Before Serving:
Once it’s chilled and ready to serve, give the pudding a good stir. If you find that it’s too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk and stir until you reach your preferred consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Spoon the chia pudding into serving glasses or bowls. Top with fresh raspberries (or any mixed berries you like). Sprinkle with some nuts if you want a crunch, and add a fresh mint leaf on top for a pop of color. It’s ready to be enjoyed chilled!
6. Store Leftovers:
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Just give it another stir before you enjoy it again!
Happy eating! This pudding is not only delicious but also super nutritious!
Can I Use Different Types of Milk?
Absolutely! While almond milk is used in this recipe, you can substitute it with any milk of your choice, such as coconut milk, soy milk, or regular dairy milk. The flavor and creaminess may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Long Does the Chia Pudding Last in the Fridge?
Your chia pudding can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Give it a good stir before serving if it thickens up over time.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Yes! To make this recipe vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and stick to non-dairy yogurt options, like coconut yogurt. Enjoy your creamy treat without any animal products!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Aside from fresh berries, you can add sliced bananas, granola, shredded coconut, or even a drizzle of nut butter for extra flavor and texture.
