This creamy vanilla chia seed pudding is a fun and healthy treat! With chia seeds, Greek yogurt, and a hint of vanilla, it’s a delightful mix of texture and taste.
What I love about this pudding is how easy it is to whip up! Just mix, let it sit, and you’re ready to enjoy a yummy snack or breakfast. Plus, you can dress it up with your favorite fruits! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chia Seeds: These little gems are key for creating a thick pudding. If you can’t find chia seeds, try using ground flaxseeds, but the texture will be different.
Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk keeps it light and neutral. If you’re not a fan, any milk works—like coconut, oat, or cow’s milk. Just choose what you love!
Greek Yogurt: It adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, tofu or coconut yogurt can be great alternatives, making it smooth without the dairy.
Maple Syrup or Honey: This adds sweetness. You can swap it with agave syrup, or skip it altogether if you prefer unsweetened flavors or use a sugar substitute that suits your taste.
Fresh Raspberries: I love raspberries for their tartness, but feel free to substitute with strawberries, blueberries, or any fruit you enjoy!
How Do You Get Chia Seeds to Thicken Properly?
The key to making your chia pudding thick and creamy lies in the soaking process. Chia seeds absorb liquid and swell, so patience is essential!
- Mix the chia seeds with your liquid well to avoid clumping.
- Cover and let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Stirring halfway through soaking can help distribute the seeds evenly.
Once thick, folding in Greek yogurt will give it even more creaminess. Enjoy your delicious pudding as a snack or breakfast—it’s super versatile!
How to Make 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
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Fresh raspberries (for topping)
- A few cashew nuts (for topping)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chia seed pudding requires about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, you’ll let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by taking a mixing bowl and whisk together the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined so that the chia seeds can soak up that yummy liquid evenly.
2. Chilling Time:
Once mixed, cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This is when the magic happens—the chia seeds will absorb the liquid and turn into a pudding-like consistency!
3. Adding Greek Yogurt:
When you’re ready to serve, take the thickened chia pudding out of the fridge. Gently fold in the Greek yogurt using a spatula or spoon until everything is blended nicely. This gives a creamy texture to the pudding that you’ll love!
4. Serving it Up:
Grab your serving jars or bowls and spoon the pudding into them. If you want, you can add a little extra dollop of Greek yogurt on top for an even creamier treat!
5. Topping with Fresh Fruits:
Now for the fun part! Add fresh raspberries on top of each serving. You can also sprinkle on a few cashew nuts for some crunchy goodness.
6. Finishing Touch:
To make it look as delightful as it tastes, garnish with a fresh mint leaf. It adds color and a refreshing touch!
7. Enjoy:
Your Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding with Greek Yogurt is now ready to be served. Enjoy it chilled and share with friends or savor it all by yourself!
Can I Use Other Types of Milk?
Absolutely! While unsweetened almond milk is a favorite, you can substitute it with any type of milk you prefer. Coconut milk, oat milk, or even regular cow’s milk will work just fine. Just stick to the same measurement!
Can I Sweeten the Pudding to My Taste?
Yes, feel free to adjust the sweetness! If you prefer a sweeter pudding, add more maple syrup or honey according to your taste. You can also use agave syrup or a sugar substitute that you enjoy.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Any leftover chia pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken even more while stored.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
You can easily make this recipe vegan by using a plant-based yogurt, like coconut yogurt or almond yogurt, in place of Greek yogurt. Just ensure your sweetener is also vegan, such as maple syrup!
