This Berry Chia Seed Pudding is a colorful treat that’s healthy and easy to make! It’s packed with yummy berries and tiny chia seeds that get nice and thick.
I love how I can prep this in minutes and let it chill in the fridge. It’s like a little dessert waiting for me! Plus, it’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Berries: Fresh berries like blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries bring vibrant flavor. If fresh aren’t available, frozen berries work great too. I love using frozen berries in winter as they’re often picked at peak ripeness and taste fantastic when blended.
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are the magic behind the pudding’s thickness. If you can’t find chia seeds, you might try flaxseeds, though they won’t gel quite the same way. Just remember to grind them first for better texture.
Almond Milk: I prefer unsweetened almond milk for its light taste. However, any milk like coconut or soy milk works too. If you want a creamier texture, use oat milk or even full-fat coconut milk.
Sweetener: Maple syrup gives a nice flavor, but honey is also a tasty choice. For a sugar-free option, consider stevia or agave syrup to taste.
How Do I Get My Chia Seeds to Thicken Properly?
Getting the chia seeds to thicken up perfectly is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the berry blend thoroughly with the chia seeds to ensure they are evenly distributed. This helps prevent clumping.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight works best. This gives chia seeds time to soak up the liquid.
- Once it’s set, give it a good stir before serving to mix any settled seeds and create a smooth texture.
Enjoying this pudding is a breeze, especially with the fresh toppings. It’s a deliciously simple way to add some healthy goodness to your diet!
Berry Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping:
- Fresh berries (blueberries, blackberries)
- A dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut cream for garnish (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Berry Chia Seed Pudding takes about 10 minutes to prep and then needs at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge (overnight is best!). So, while the actual hands-on time is short, don’t forget to give it time to set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Berry Mixture:
In a blender, toss in the mixed berries, almond milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and nice. If you love berry chunks, you can blend it a little less!
2. Mix in the Chia Seeds:
Pour the berry mixture into a mixing bowl, and then it’s time to whisk in the chia seeds. Stir well to make sure the seeds are evenly sprinkled and soaked into the berry goodness. This helps to prevent clumping, so your pudding will be silky smooth.
3. Chill the Pudding:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! This is when the chia seeds will absorb all that delicious berry and milk mixture and thicken beautifully.
4. Stir & Serve:
Once chilled and thickened, take the bowl out of the fridge. Give the pudding a good stir to mix any settled chia seeds. Now, grab your serving glasses or bowls!
5. Add Your Toppings:
Spoon the pudding into your cups, then have fun adding fresh blueberries and blackberries on top. If you like, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut cream for creaminess, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves for that extra touch!
6. Enjoy!
Serve the pudding chilled and enjoy this deliciously healthy berry chia seed pudding as a snack, breakfast, or dessert. It’s packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients!
Can I Use Different Types of Milk?
Absolutely! While unsweetened almond milk is my go-to for this recipe, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as coconut milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess might vary slightly with each option.
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Besides Maple Syrup?
Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or even a sugar-free sweetener if you want to keep it low in calories. Just taste as you go to get your desired sweetness!
How Long Does the Pudding Last in the Fridge?
Your berry chia seed pudding can last in the fridge for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken slightly over time.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Pudding?
Definitely! Feel free to jazz it up with ingredients like a scoop of protein powder, cocoa powder for a chocolate twist, or even some nuts for extra crunch. Just make sure that whatever you add complements the overall flavors!
