Name: Chia Seed Pudding
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients: 1/4 cup chia seeds; 1 cup coconut milk or almond milk; 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/3 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/3 cup fresh blueberries; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Chia Seed Pudding became a favorite of mine back when I was trying to balance a busy schedule and still enjoy something sweet and nourishing in the mornings. I remember stirring the seeds into coconut milk one evening and hoping it would set by morning—and not only did it work, it was delicious. The texture was creamy, the flavor was subtle, and I topped it with berries for a refreshing finish that kept me full and happy until lunch.

Now I make this Chia Seed Pudding almost every week and it’s my go-to for breakfast meal prep and midday snacks and even dessert when I’m craving something guilt-free and satisfying. I love how easy it is to customize with fruits, nuts, and flavors like vanilla or cocoa and it’s one of those simple pleasures that feels like a treat while being super healthy.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Chia seeds – The magic ingredient that thickens and gives a pudding-like texture
Coconut milk or almond milk – Creates a creamy base and subtle flavor
Maple syrup or honey – Adds just the right amount of natural sweetness
Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet note
Fresh strawberries – Brings brightness and a little tartness
Fresh blueberries – Adds juicy texture and natural sweetness
Mint leaves – Optional, but great for a fresh, aromatic touch

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowl – To combine the chia seeds and milk base
Whisk – Helps evenly distribute the chia seeds and prevent clumping
Measuring cups and spoons – To get the perfect ratio of seeds to liquid
Jar or airtight container – Ideal for refrigerating the pudding overnight
Spoon or spatula – To stir before and after setting
Knife – For slicing fresh fruit toppings

Instructions

Step 1:

I begin by adding the chia seeds to a medium bowl or jar, then pour in the coconut milk and give it a good stir.

Step 2:

I mix in the maple syrup and vanilla extract, making sure everything is combined well so the chia seeds don’t clump together.

Step 3:

After stirring thoroughly, I let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes, then stir again to prevent all the seeds from sinking to the bottom.

Step 4:

I cover the bowl or jar and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but I usually leave it overnight so the texture sets fully.

Step 5:

In the morning, I give the pudding a final stir and check the texture—it should be thick and spoonable.

Step 6:

I top it with fresh sliced strawberries, blueberries, and a sprig of mint for a refreshing finish and extra flavor.

Tips

If you want to switch things up, I sometimes stir in a spoonful of cocoa powder for a chocolate version or layer it with granola and fruit for a parfait-style treat. If your pudding feels too thick the next day, just stir in a splash of milk to loosen it up. And for extra protein, I’ve mixed in a scoop of Greek yogurt or vanilla protein powder—it works beautifully!

Ways to Serve

This Chia Seed Pudding is perfect on its own for breakfast, but I also love serving it in small cups for a healthy dessert. For a fun brunch option, I layer it in clear jars with berries and granola. You can even pack it into small containers for an easy grab-and-go snack during busy weekdays.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Chia Seed Pudding last in the fridge?

It keeps well for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I use other types of milk for Chia Seed Pudding?

Yes! Almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, and even regular dairy milk all work well.

Why didn’t my Chia Seed Pudding thicken?

Sometimes the seeds need more time to soak or the seed-to-liquid ratio might be off. Stirring after 10 minutes and refrigerating for at least 4 hours usually solves this.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Chia Seed Pudding a try! It’s one of my favorites, and I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Feel free to leave a comment below or share your results with me! And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to pin it to your favorite healthy breakfast board.

Happy Cooking!