Vanilla Chia Pudding Recipe | Healthy Make-Ahead Breakfast
Creamy, lightly sweet vanilla chia pudding that you can stir together in minutes and chill for a make-ahead breakfast. Customizable with your choice of milk, sweetener, and toppings.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup, honey, or agave
- Pinch of fine salt
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (optional)
- 1 tablespoon protein powder (optional)
- Toppings such as fresh berries, sliced banana, toasted coconut, granola, peanut butter, or cacao nibs (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
- In a jar or bowl, whisk the milk, vanilla extract, sweetener, and salt until smooth.
- If using, whisk in the Greek yogurt or protein powder until fully combined.
- Sprinkle the chia seeds over the liquid and whisk for 30 to 45 seconds to distribute evenly.
- Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes, then whisk again to break up any clumps.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight until thick and pudding-like.
- Before serving, stir, taste, and adjust sweetness if needed, then add desired toppings.
Notes
If the pudding is too thick, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons milk at a time until it loosens. If too thin, mix in 1 teaspoon chia seeds, chill 20 minutes, and check again. For an ultra-smooth texture, blend the mixture before chilling. Store refrigerated in sealed jars for 4 to 5 days; keep toppings separate. Can be frozen (without fresh fruit) for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge, then stir.