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Chia Pudding

Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutesServes: 1Difficulty: Advanced
Chia Pudding recipe image

Chia Pudding thickens chia seeds in milk until creamy, making an easy make-ahead breakfast with a lightly sweet finish.

Provided by Chef Katy

Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes

Prep Time 5 minutes

Chilling Time 4 hours

Yield 1

Number of Ingredients 5

About This Recipe

Chia pudding works because the seeds absorb liquid and thicken as they chill.

Stir well at the start, let it rest, then stir again so the seeds stay evenly suspended.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk of choice or cashew cream
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • sweetener of choice, (as desired)
  • scant 1/8 tsp salt

Ingredient Notes

  • Chia Seeds: Use fresh chia seeds so they thicken properly.
  • Milk: Dairy or non-dairy milk both work as long as the ratio stays balanced.
  • Sweetener: Maple syrup, honey, or sugar can be adjusted to taste.
  • Vanilla: A little vanilla makes the pudding taste rounder.

Instructions

  1. 1

    Stir the chia seeds, milk, sweetener, and flavoring until evenly combined.

  2. 2

    Cover and refrigerate until the pudding thickens.

  3. 3

    Stir again before serving and add toppings as desired.

Katy’s Kitchen Note: A second stir after the first few minutes prevents clumps of dry chia seeds.

Katy’s Kitchen Tips

  • Stir once right after mixing and again after 10 minutes.
  • Chill until fully thick before serving.
  • Add fruit or granola just before eating.
  • Use a jar with a lid for easy meal prep.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Herb finish: Add fresh herbs before serving.
  • Spicy version: Add chili or hot sauce.
  • Lighter option: Serve with salad or vegetables.
  • Make ahead: Prepare components early and finish fresh.

What to Serve With Chia Pudding

Serve Chia Pudding with fruit, yogurt, eggs, bacon, sausage, coffee, or maple syrup.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate chia pudding in covered jars for up to 4 days.

Add crunchy toppings right before serving so they do not soften.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not stirring twice: Chia seeds can clump at the bottom.
  • Too little liquid: The pudding becomes overly thick.
  • Not chilling long enough: The seeds need time to hydrate.
  • Adding toppings early: Granola and nuts can lose crunch overnight.

FAQ

Can I make chia pudding ahead?

Yes. It is ideal for overnight meal prep.

Why is it runny?

It may need more chia seeds or more chilling time.

Can I use almond milk?

Yes. Most dairy or non-dairy milks work.

How do I make it smoother?

Blend it after chilling for a smoother texture.

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 105 kcal