Need a sweet but healthy breakfast or a dessert? Here is a quick tutorial on how to make chia pudding that will suit your taste buds.
Are you trying to keep a healthy diet but still craving something creamy, sweet, and filling? Chia seed pudding is your answer.
Chia pudding is not only creamy, sweet, and filling, but it’s also very healthy. In fact, it can even be part of a weight-loss diet.
The pudding can be easily adapted to fit your current dietary needs. For example, you can use nut milk or real dairy.
You can add different flavors and toppings, as well. Let’s read on to discover how to make chia seed pudding and all of the different ways to make it a delicious breakfast, dessert or even a snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Chia seeds (½ cup) – The main ingredient, not to be missed or substituted. Chia seeds are high in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Almond milk (2 cups) – Be sure to choose unsweetened almond milk for the best health benefits. Again, substitutes can include coconut milk, cashew milk, or another favorite nut milk.
Vanilla extract (3 tsp) – Vanilla extract is a great way to add delicious flavor without adding additional sugar or artificial ingredients. When choosing vanilla extract, try to buy pure vanilla extract and not the fake kind.
Maple syrup (1 tbsp) – 100% maple syrup is the best option when sticking to a healthy diet. If you cannot find maple syrup, you can substitute it with agave or honey.
Salt (a pinch) – Salt is an ingredient that helps boost flavor when used in moderate amounts. In fact, a pinch here and there is no harm at all to your healthy diet.
Vanilla protein powder (1 tbsp) – Adding vanilla protein powder is a great way to boost the chia seed pudding’s nutrient level. It adds extra flavor, as well.
Toppings (Optional)
Banana (6 slices) – Bananas are a great way to add protein and potassium to your diet. But, you can also substitute another one of your favorite fruits if you want.
Granola (1 tbsp) – Again, be sure to find a low sugar, low carb granola option if you are sticking to a healthy eating plan. There is an assortment of great options available online or at your local supermarket.
How to Make Chia Seed Pudding
Step 1. First, mix the chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and protein powder. It’s essential to mix the ingredients very well so that everything is incorporated.
Step 2. Next, you will cover the bowl that you mixed everything in with plastic wrap. Now place the bowl in the refrigerator.
Allow the chia seed pudding to chill and thicken for at least two hours. After the chilling period, the pudding should be thick and not liquidy.
Step 3. Lastly, remove the chia seed pudding from the refrigerator and portion it out into serving cups. If desired, top with banana and granola. Love the recipe, check our web story!
How Often Should You Eat Chia Pudding?
Chia seed pudding is perfectly fine to consume regularly. You can enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert.
Keep in mind the high fiber content of the chia seeds. Understandably, if you consume a high fiber diet, there is a possibility you might have digestive side effects.
The suggested amount of chia seeds is about 20 grams (or 1.5 tablespoons) twice per day, according to Healthline.com.
Do You Eat Chia Pudding Hot or Cold?
This specific recipe is for enjoying chia seed pudding while cold or even at room temperature (after the chilling process). But can you enjoy chia seed pudding warm?
Yes, you can! Instead of chilling the chia seed pudding, you can alternatively heat it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Not only does this speed up the thickening process, but it also creates a much different snack. Try this method instead for a cozy, warm treat.
Best Milk to Use for Chia Pudding
Almond milk is a great option that is easily accessible. It can be found in many supermarkets in the dairy section or among the coffee and tea shelves.
Cashew milk is another excellent option if you would like to use nut milk. Cashew milk contains healthy fats and protein. Also, cashew milk has a range of vitamins and nutrients.
Coconut cream should be used if you want the pudding to be extra creamy. Keep in mind, though, coconut cream does have a higher fat percentage than most non-dairy options.
Don’t worry! There are healthy ways to add sweetness to your food.
Best Toppings to Use
Since we are sticking to healthy options, it’s important to remember a few things. Such things include avoiding toppings with artificial ingredients and added sugars.
Some healthy topping options include:
- Keto-friendly granola – A low carb, low sugar granola option is an excellent option for adding flavor and crunch. This granola is a good option that has 3g net carbs per serving.
- Chopped fruit – Fresh fruit is a great way to add flavor, texture, and color to your chia seed pudding recipe.
- Unsalted nuts – Chopped nuts add extra protein to your chia seed pudding. Adding nuts is especially good when also adding the chopped fruit.
Chia Pudding Recipes You Might Want to Try
- Coconut Chia Pudding
- Mango Chia Pudding
- Blueberry Chia Pudding
- Strawberry Chia Pudding
- Banana Chia Pudding
- Cacao Chia Pudding
- Healthy Porridge Ideas
or check all of them on the video here:
How to Make Chia Pudding
Ingredients
- ½ cup chia seeds
- 2 cups of almond milk
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp vanilla protein powder
Toppings (Optional)
- 6 slices of banana
- 1 tbsp unsweetened granola
Instructions
- In a separate bowl, mix together all the ingredients.
- Cover the bowl with cling film and keep in the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight.
- Once removed from the refrigerator, divide into 2 cups or glasses. Top with slices of banana and granola.
albert Leggs
Tuesday 9th of February 2021
I Also add cooked rice to make a great tasting rice chia pudding. Oh yeah !!
Karo @ AllNutritious
Tuesday 9th of February 2021
Nice idea, Albert! :) That can be done for sure, although rice is pretty high in carbs that aren't that complex so it wouldn't be as nutritious. Just something to have in mind! :)