Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
This easy vanilla chia seed pudding recipe is so incredibly creamy and delicious– you have to try it! Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it’s a delicious breakfast or snack.
I know the word best is used too often when describing food, but this really is the best chia seed pudding I’ve ever had! It’s creamy and luscious– you won’t believe that you are eating chia seeds!
As a dietitian, I’m a big fan of chia seeds. They are an excellent source of fiber—a single ounce contains 10 g of fiber—which can improve heart health, reduce cholesterol levels, and help with gut health. I use them often in smoothies, oatmeal, and, of course, this creamy vanilla chia seed pudding.
There are two secrets in making this pudding– the first is stirring in a thick yogurt. You’ll want something with some fat in it, otherwise the chia pudding will taste chalky. I use a whole milk greek yogurt, but coconut yogurt or even coconut milk will work– see below for more details on ingredients.
The second is adding in vanilla extract and using vanilla milk! The combination makes for a fragrant, vanilla-infused chia seed pudding that is just so good. Topped with berries and a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired, you’ll be making this one over and over again.
See below for step-by-step photos, or scroll down to the full recipe below.
Everything You Need to Make Chia Seed Pudding:
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
You need just 5 ingredients to make this vanilla chia seed pudding!
- Chia Seeds: These days, chia seeds can be found at most grocery stores in the baking aisle. I grab them at Trader Joe’s, but you can also purchase them online.
- Vanilla Milk: I like using vanilla milk in this recipe for additional vanilla flavor. My pick is Silk’s Vanilla almond milk, but any type of milk or non-dairy milks will work if you don’t want to use vanilla milk. I often buy it for smoothies and now for this chia seed pudding!
- Maple Syrup: You need a little sweetener for optimal taste. If you don’t want to use maple syrup, you can do honey or another liquid sweetener of choice.
- Vanilla Extract: A small amount adds in even more vanilla flavor to this vanilla chia seed pudding.
- Greek Yogurt: This is really the secret to this recipe. The higher-fat, creamy texture of the Greek yogurt coats the chia seeds for the best mouthfeel and texture. If you want this to be completely dairy-free, then you can sub in coconut cream, coconut milk or coconut yogurt. You may need to add in a little more maple syrup if you use the coconut milk or cream.
How to Make Chia Seed Pudding
Whisk together ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients except for the chia seeds and fresh fruit.
Add the chia seeds
Add in the chia seeds and whisk to combine. Let sit for 15 minutes, then stir again. Place in the fridge for at least an hour, or overnight. It’s ready when it has a pudding-like consistency.
Divide into jars
Divide into jars, or other small serving containers, like a mason jar. This makes for easy meal prep, especially for busy days when you want to have healthy snacks on hand!
Top with berries and serve
Top with fresh berries and any other optional toppings.
Topping Options
I also like a drizzle of maple syrup and toasted slivered almonds on top of my chia seed pudding if I’m feeling fancy. A dollop of jam on top also works if you don’t have fresh berries on hand!
Think of chia pudding like overnight oats or yogurt, if it works as a topping there then it will likely work as a topping here. Granola, sliced bananas, a drizzle of almond butter or peanut butter, crushed nuts like walnuts, peanuts or pecans will all work.
You can also combine toppings to take on different flavor profiles. Try strawberries and peanut butter for a PB&J twist or sliced mango and shredded coconut for a tropical version.
Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are tiny black or white seeds from the plant Salvia hispanica L, thought to be native to Central America. They are a nutritional powerhouse, with a satisfying combination of fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
It’s this trio of protein, fiber and healthy fats that makes them a great choice for breakfast or snacks. This combo can also assist in weight management as it keeps you full for longer. A serving of this chia seed pudding, with extra fiber from any additional fruit, is filling and healthy.
They are also are a good source of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and protein, all of which are important for bone health. For plant-based individuals, adding more chia seeds can help to meet calcium needs, especially when paired with a fortified plant-based milk as shown in this recipe.
More Chia Seed Recipes
If you make this vanilla chia pudding recipe, make sure to come back to leave a rating and a comment. Your feedback helps other readers, and seeing you make my recipes makes my day!
Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla milk, I used unsweetened vanilla almond milk
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt*
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch salt
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
- Fresh berries for serving, optional
Instructions
- Whisk the milk, yogurt, syrup, vanilla, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Add in the chia seeds and whisk together. Let sit for 15 minutes, then whisk again.
- Place the bowl in the fridge for an hour, then whisk again. Enjoy as is, or divide into bowls and top with berries for serving.