Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding

Name: Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup chia seeds; 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice); 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); Fresh strawberries, sliced; Mint leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

I love making Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding as a refreshing treat that feels indulgent yet healthy. The combination of creamy chia seeds and sweet strawberries creates a delightful texture that satisfies my cravings without guilt. It’s such a simple recipe that requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend brunch. Plus, I can easily customize it with my favorite toppings, which truly makes it my go-to dessert or breakfast option.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-21T19:02:18.817Z

When I first discovered the magic of chia seeds, I was amazed by how versatile they could be. I experimented with them in various recipes, but it was the combination of chia seeds with fresh strawberries that really caught my attention. The flavors meld beautifully, and the pudding consistency is simply delightful. The key is to let it chill for a couple of hours; this helps the chiaseeds soak up the milk and results in a perfectly creamy texture.

Throughout my trials, I've found that using fresh, ripe strawberries not only intensifies the flavor but also adds a vibrant color to the dish. I sometimes incorporate a dash of vanilla extract or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. Whether served for breakfast or as a snack, this Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding always brings a smile to my face.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries enhance the natural sweetness of the pudding.
Chia seeds provide a satisfying texture while being packed with nutrients.
This pudding is perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Understanding Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the star ingredient in this pudding, serving both a nutritional and functional purpose. When mixed with liquid, these tiny seeds swell and form a gel-like texture, which gives the pudding its creamy consistency without the need for dairy. This unique property makes chia seeds an excellent choice for those looking to reduce added sugars and saturated fats in their diet while still enjoying a satisfying treat.

The health benefits of chia seeds are impressive—they're high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. Just two tablespoons of chia seeds contain approximately 140 calories and 10 grams of fiber, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. In this recipe, they not only thicken the pudding but also add a nutty flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Choosing the Right Milk

While this recipe calls for almond milk, the beauty of chia pudding lies in its versatility. You can use any milk substitute that fits your dietary needs—coconut milk will add a rich creaminess, soy milk will boost protein content, and oat milk offers a mildly sweet flavor. If you're aiming for a lower calorie option, unsweetened almond milk is a great choice, but be mindful that the flavor profile may change slightly depending on the milk used.

Make sure to whisk the milk well with the chia seeds; this helps ensure that the seeds are evenly distributed and prevents clumping. If using a thicker milk like coconut, you might need to adjust the ratio slightly for optimal pudding consistency, adding a touch more liquid if necessary. Aim for a viscosity similar to that of pancake batter.

Customization and Serving Ideas

One of the great joys of making chia seed pudding is the endless possibilities for customization. You can blend in different fruits like blueberries or bananas, or even mix in cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. For added crunch, consider topping your pudding with granola, nuts, or seeds, making it both visually appealing and texturally interesting. If you enjoy a bit of acidity, a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can enhance the overall flavor of the pudding.

Serving suggestions also matter; try placing the pudding in individual jars for a cute presentation at a brunch or summer picnic. Not only does it look inviting, but it also makes for an easy, grab-and-go breakfast option. If you have leftovers, simply store them in the refrigerator in a sealed container, where they will keep for up to five days—although I doubt they’ll last that long!

Ingredients

For the Pudding

1/2 cup chia seeds
2 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For Serving

Fresh strawberries, sliced
Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, strawberry puree, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Let It Sit

Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the pudding.

Serve

Once the pudding has set, stir it once more to ensure a smooth consistency. Divide it into serving bowls and top with sliced fresh strawberries and mint leaves.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in other fruits like bananas or blueberries into the pudding base. You can also layer it with granola for a crunchy texture.

Meal Prep and Storage

This Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding is perfect for meal prep, providing a nutritious and quick breakfast option throughout the week. I recommend preparing a batch on Sunday, allowing the chia seeds to hydrate fully so that you have a ready-to-eat option each morning. If you find the pudding is too thick after refrigeration, simply stir in a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

To store, keep the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leaving it uncovered can lead to a slight crust forming on the edges due to exposure to air, detracting from its smooth mouthfeel. If using fruit as a topping, add it just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with chia pudding is the formation of lumps. This typically happens when chia seeds are added too rapidly to the liquid without proper stirring. To mitigate this, ensure you whisk the mixture continuously until it's smooth, and let it sit for a moment before whisking again to catch any lingering seeds that might have clumped together.

If the pudding doesn't thicken as expected, it might be due to the chia seeds not being fresh. They have a shelf life, and using old seeds can result in poor gelling. It’s also crucial to keep the pudding in the fridge for at least two hours; an overnight chill will yield the best results with a creamy texture that’s enticingly thick.

Variations for Every Palate

For those who love a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding mixture. This will enhance the flavor profile without overshadowing the freshness of the strawberries. For a tropical spin, substitute the strawberries with mango puree and add shredded coconut for a delightful beachy treat.

If you're looking to increase protein intake, consider adding Greek yogurt to the mixture before chilling. This addition will result in a creamier texture while making it a more balanced meal. Just be mindful that it may alter the sweetness, so adjust your sweetener accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute almond milk with coconut, soy, or regular cow's milk based on your preference.

→ How long will the pudding last in the fridge?

The pudding can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Just prepare it the night before and enjoy it the next day.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey.