The Ultimate Chia Pudding Recipe (Creamy, Healthy & Foolproof!)

Chia pudding is one of those rare kitchen wins—it’s effortless, endlessly adaptable, and actually good for you. With just a handful of ingredients and 5 minutes of prep, you’ll have a creamy, satisfying breakfast (or snack) waiting in the fridge.

Over the years, I’ve tested dozens of versions, and this one never fails: creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and enough staying power to keep you fueled for hours. Whether you’re meal-prepping for busy mornings, looking for a kid-friendly treat, or craving a healthy dessert, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Chia Pudding

• 5-minute prep → Stir it together, let the fridge do the work.

• Customizable → Use your favorite milk, sweetener, and toppings.

• Nutritious → Loaded with fiber, plant protein, and omega-3s.

• Meal prep friendly → Make 3 days’ worth in one batch.

• Kid-approved → Creamy texture = “healthy tapioca.”

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Ingredients for Chia Pudding

For 1 serving (scale as needed):

• ¼ cup chia seeds (black or white)

• 1 cup almond milk (unsweetened vanilla is my favorite—shake well before pouring!)

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp pure vanilla extract (optional if using flavored milk)

• Pinch of sea salt (tiny but essential flavor booster!)

Optional toppings:

• Fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)

• Sliced banana or mango

• Toasted coconut flakes or nuts

• Granola or Greek yogurt

• Cocoa powder, cinnamon, or dark chocolate shavings

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Ingredient Substitutions & Notes

• Milk options → Coconut milk = rich & creamy, oat milk = mild, dairy milk works too.

• Sweeteners → Swap honey for maple syrup, agave, date syrup, or mashed banana.

• Flavor boosters → Stir in cocoa powder (chocolate chia pudding!), matcha, or espresso powder.

• Protein boost → Add 1 scoop of protein powder after chilling—add more chia if needed.

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‍ Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix → In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together chia seeds, almond milk, honey, vanilla, and salt. Whisk vigorously for 30 seconds.

2. Rest & Stir → Let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to break up clumps.

3. Chill → Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight gives best texture).

4. Final Stir → Give it one last mix before serving. Adjust thickness with a splash of milk if too firm.

5. Top & Enjoy → Add your favorite toppings just before serving.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Chia Pudding

• Use a whisk for mixing—not just a spoon—to prevent clumps.

• Always stir twice: once when mixing, once after 5 minutes.

• Add toppings right before eating (berries can bleed into pudding).

• For extra creaminess, blend half the chia seeds with milk before mixing.

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Serving Suggestions

• Summer vibes → Fresh peaches + pistachios.

• Fall cozy → Warm cinnamon apples + toasted pecans.

• Dessert twist → Strawberries + dark chocolate shavings.

• On-the-go → Layer with yogurt + frozen berries in mason jars.

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Storage & Make-Ahead

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Stir before serving—add milk if too thick.

• Not recommended for reheating. Best enjoyed cold!

• Can freeze, but texture changes (best used in smoothies after thawing).

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Chia Pudding Variations

• Chocolate Dream → 1 tbsp cocoa powder + banana slices.

• Matcha Green → 1 tsp matcha powder + coconut milk + mango.

• Berry Parfait → Layer chia pudding with yogurt + jam.

• Tropical Twist → Pineapple chunks + coconut flakes.

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❓ FAQs

Q: Why isn’t my pudding setting?
A: Check seed freshness, use correct ratio (1:4), and don’t skip the second stir.

Q: Can I use water instead of milk?
A: Technically yes, but it’s bland—use plant-based or dairy milk for creaminess.

Q: How long to thicken?
A: Minimum 2 hours, but overnight = best results.

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Nutrition Information (per serving, basic recipe)

• Calories: 250

• Fat: 12 g

• Carbs: 30 g (10 g fiber)

• Protein: 6 g

• Sugar: 10 g (depends on sweetener)

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Printable Recipe Card

5-Minute Chia Pudding Recipe

Author: Judy Wilson
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Yield: 1 serving
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• ¼ cup chia seeds

• 1 cup almond milk (or any milk)

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch sea salt

Instructions

1. In a bowl or jar, whisk together chia seeds, milk, sweetener, vanilla, and salt.

2. Let sit 5 minutes, whisk again to break clumps.

3. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

4. Stir, top with fruit or granola, and serve.

Notes

• Store leftovers in fridge up to 3 days.

• Add cocoa, matcha, or fruit purée for variations.