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Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

By What’s Baking

A silky, luscious overnight pudding where tiny chia seeds transform into a creamy, spoonable treat dotted with bursts of fresh fruit and subtle vanilla notes.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
0 mins
Serves:
4 servings
An overhead shot of three glass jars filled with pristine white chia pudding, each displaying perfect seed suspension throughout the creamy mixture. The jars sit on a light marble surface bathed in soft morning light, with fresh berries cascading around them. A close-up reveals the delicate texture of the pudding, showing the tiny chia seeds that have plumped to create a tapioca-like consistency. One jar features layers of vibrant mango purée, another shows a drizzle of maple syrup creating amber rivulets, while the third is topped with a handful of mixed berries and a light dusting of shredded coconut. A small vintage silver spoon rests against one jar, capturing the smooth, spoonable nature of this no-bake breakfast treat.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60g chia seeds</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">500ml plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp vanilla extract</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Pinch of salt</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">200g fresh mixed berries (for topping)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30g chopped nuts or seeds (for topping)</li> </ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Glass jars with lids</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Whisk</li> </ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> In a medium bowl, combine the plant-based milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Whisk thoroughly until well combined and the sweetener is completely dissolved. This ensures even flavor distribution throughout your pudding. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Add the chia seeds to the liquid mixture and whisk immediately and vigorously for about 30 seconds. This initial mixing is crucial as it prevents the chia seeds from clumping together. The seeds will begin absorbing liquid right away, so thorough distribution is essential for a smooth pudding. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, then whisk again thoroughly. This second whisking is the secret to achieving a perfectly smooth texture without clumps. The seeds will have begun to gel slightly, and this mixing breaks up any clusters that have started to form. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Transfer the mixture evenly into your glass jars, leaving some space at the top for toppings. Secure the lids and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight (8-12 hours) will yield the best texture. The chia seeds work like tiny sponges, absorbing the liquid and creating a tapioca-like consistency. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Once set, check the consistency of your pudding. It should be thick and spoonable, with each chia seed having formed a gel-like coating. If it's too thick, stir in a splash more milk. If it's too thin (which is rare after overnight setting), add a teaspoon of chia seeds, stir, and refrigerate for another hour. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Just before serving, top your chia pudding with fresh berries and a sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and nutrition. You can also layer the pudding with fruit compote or nut butter for a more elaborate presentation. The pudding will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. </li> </ol>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving
🔥 Calories: 210 calories
🥑 Fat: 12 g
🧈 Saturated Fat: 1 g
🍞 Carbohydrates: 17 g
🍭 Sugar: 4 g
🍗 Protein: 8 g
🫀 Cholesterol: 0 mg
🧂 Sodium: 45 mg

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Why do my chia seeds clump together when making pudding?

Chia seeds clump when they aren't whisked immediately and thoroughly after adding to liquid. The key is to whisk vigorously right away, then whisk again after 10 minutes. This double-whisking technique breaks up any clusters that have begun to form as the seeds start absorbing liquid.

How long does homemade chia pudding last in the fridge?

Properly stored in airtight containers, chia pudding keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it an excellent meal prep option for breakfasts or snacks throughout the week. The texture may thicken slightly over time, so you might want to add a splash of milk before serving.

Can I make chia pudding with different flavours besides vanilla?

Absolutely! Try adding cocoa powder for chocolate pudding, matcha powder for a green tea version, or fruit purées like mango or strawberry. You can also infuse the milk with spices like cardamom or ginger, swap vanilla for almond extract, or layer with fruit compotes for endless variations.

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