Chia seed pudding is a delicious, nutritious, and incredibly versatile vegan dessert or breakfast option that has taken the health food world by storm. If you’re looking for a creamy, satisfying dish that’s also packed with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein, this simple chia seed pudding recipe is exactly what you need.
Best of all, it requires minimal effort and just a handful of wholesome ingredients to whip up a bowl of goodness that you can enjoy any time of the day.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this chia pudding is a perfect canvas for customization. You can easily adjust the flavors, toppings, and even the type of plant milk you use.
Dive into this easy-to-make recipe and discover why chia pudding is the ultimate go-to for a healthy, tasty treat that fits your lifestyle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple and quick to prepare: With only a few ingredients and no cooking required, this pudding is a perfect grab-and-go meal or snack.
Highly nutritious: Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients, including fiber, protein, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which support overall health.
Completely vegan and customizable: Use your favorite plant-based milk and natural sweeteners, and add fruits, nuts, or spices to match your taste buds.
Great for meal prep: Make several jars at once and enjoy a healthy breakfast or dessert throughout the week.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk like oat, soy, or coconut)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave nectar, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Fresh fruits for topping (e.g., berries, banana slices, mango)
- Optional toppings: shredded coconut, chopped nuts, cacao nibs, or cinnamon
Equipment
- Mixing bowl or mason jar with lid
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Whisk or fork
- Refrigerator
- Spoon for stirring and serving
Instructions
- Combine the chia seeds and plant milk: In a mixing bowl or mason jar, add 3 tablespoons of chia seeds and 1 cup of your preferred unsweetened plant milk.
- Add sweetener and flavor: Stir in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors.
- Mix well: Whisk everything together thoroughly to ensure the chia seeds are evenly dispersed and start absorbing the liquid.
- Let it sit: Cover the bowl or jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The chia seeds will swell and create a thick pudding-like texture.
- Stir again: Before serving, give the pudding a good stir to break up any clumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Add toppings and enjoy: Spoon the pudding into bowls or jars and top with your favorite fresh fruits, nuts, or other toppings.
Tips & Variations
“For a creamier pudding, try soaking the chia seeds in coconut milk or blend the mixture for a smoother texture.”
- Flavor variations: Add cocoa powder for a chocolate version, or sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
- Natural sweetness: Swap maple syrup for mashed ripe banana or blended dates to keep it refined sugar-free.
- Boost protein: Stir in a scoop of your favorite vegan protein powder before refrigerating.
- Layer it up: Create chia parfaits by layering pudding with granola and fruit for a delightful textural contrast.
- Make it savory: For an unconventional option, omit the sweetener and add avocado, lemon zest, and fresh herbs for a unique savory chia pudding.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 5 g |
Fat | 9 g (mostly healthy fats) |
Carbohydrates | 18 g |
Fiber | 11 g |
Sugar | 5 g (from maple syrup and fruits) |
Calcium | 200 mg (depending on plant milk) |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 3,000 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This chia seed pudding is wonderfully versatile and can be served in so many ways. Try layering it with fresh berries and crunchy granola for a perfect breakfast parfait.
For a refreshing treat, top it with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
It also pairs beautifully with nut butters such as almond or peanut butter swirled on top. For an extra indulgent dessert, drizzle with vegan chocolate sauce or a dollop of coconut whipped cream.
If you want to add a little crunch, chopped nuts or cacao nibs work perfectly.
For more delicious vegan recipes to complement your chia pudding, check out Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or enjoy a savory side like Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals.
To round out your meal, try baking some fresh bread with our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
Conclusion
Chia seed pudding is truly one of the easiest, healthiest, and most adaptable recipes you can add to your vegan kitchen repertoire. Its simple ingredients, minimal preparation time, and endless customization options make it a standout choice for anyone seeking nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or a longtime vegan, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy the many benefits of chia seeds. Plus, it’s perfect for busy mornings or a sweet, guilt-free dessert any time.
Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite go-to recipe!
📖 Recipe Card: Chia Seed Pudding Recipe Vegan
Description: A simple and nutritious vegan chia seed pudding that's perfect for breakfast or dessert. Made with plant-based milk and natural sweeteners for a creamy, healthy treat.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT240M
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh berries for topping (optional)
- 1 tablespoon shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Whisk well to prevent clumps.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Stir the pudding before serving.
- Top with fresh berries and shredded coconut if desired.
- Serve chilled.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 28 g
{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Chia Seed Pudding Recipe Vegan”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A simple and nutritious vegan chia seed pudding that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. Made with plant-based milk and natural sweeteners for a creamy, healthy treat.”, “prepTime”: “PT10M”, “cookTime”: “PT0M”, “totalTime”: “PT240M”, “recipeYield”: “2 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“3 tablespoons chia seeds”, “1 cup unsweetened almond milk”, “1 tablespoon maple syrup”, “1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract”, “Pinch of salt”, “Fresh berries for topping (optional)”, “1 tablespoon shredded coconut (optional)”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “In a bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Whisk well to prevent clumps.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Stir the pudding before serving.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Top with fresh berries and shredded coconut if desired.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Serve chilled.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “250 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “6 g”, “fatContent”: “12 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “28 g”}}