Layered Berry & Vanilla/Banana Chia Pudding

Layered Berry & Vanilla/Banana Chia Pudding

This recipe will make two servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes Chill time: At least 4 hours, or overnight

Ingredients:

For the Vanilla/Banana Chia Pudding Layer:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk work well)
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or other sweetener (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1/2 ripe banana, mashed (for a banana flavor and extra creaminess)

For the Berry Smoothie/Pudding Layer:

• 1 cup (150g) frozen mixed berries (raspberries would be perfect for the color in the image)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) plant-based milk or water (adjust for desired thickness)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or other sweetener (adjust to taste)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon chia seeds (for a thicker, more pudding-like consistency)

For Topping:

• Fresh banana slices
• Fresh raspberries
• Chia seeds

Instructions:

1. Make the Vanilla/Banana Chia Pudding: * In a bowl or jar, whisk together the plant-based milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. * If using mashed banana, stir it in thoroughly. * Stir well to combine and ensure no clumps of chia seeds remain. * Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to break up any remaining clumps. * Divide this mixture evenly between two glasses or jars. * Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the berry layer, or longer if you prefer it to set more.

2. Make the Berry Smoothie/Pudding Layer: * In a blender, combine the frozen berries, plant-based milk (or water), and maple syrup. * Blend until completely smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more liquid, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. * If adding chia seeds to this layer, blend them in briefly at the end until just combined. * Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

3. Assemble the Layers: * Once the vanilla/banana chia pudding has slightly set, carefully pour the berry smoothie/pudding layer over it in each glass. * You can use the back of a spoon to help pour gently and create a clean line between the layers.

4. Chill: * Cover the glasses and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow both layers to fully set and chill.

5. Serve: * Before serving, top with fresh banana slices, fresh raspberries, and a sprinkle of chia seeds, as shown in the image.

Tips and Variations:

• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sweetener in both layers to your liking.
• Fruit: Feel free to experiment with other fruits for the top or for the berry layer (e.g., blueberries, strawberries, mango).
• Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder to either layer for an extra protein boost.
• Thicker Consistency: For an even thicker chia pudding, you can add slightly more chia seeds.
• Overnight Oats Hybrid: You could also make the bottom layer with overnight oats instead of chia pudding for a different texture.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy layered pudding!