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- 1/2 cup chia seeds - 2 cups almond milk (or any plant-based milk) - 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tsp vanilla extract) - 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey) - A pinch of sea salt To make this delightful pudding, start with chia seeds. These tiny seeds are rich in fiber and protein. They soak up liquid and create a thick, creamy texture. Next, choose your milk. Almond milk works great, but feel free to use any plant-based milk you like. Vanilla bean adds a lovely flavor. If you can't find it, vanilla extract is a good substitute. Maple syrup or honey sweetens your pudding. A pinch of sea salt balances the flavors and brings out the sweetness. - Fresh berries - Sliced banana - Granola - Toasted coconut flakes Toppings make your chia pudding even better. Fresh berries add color and sweetness. Sliced banana gives a nice creaminess. Granola adds crunch, while toasted coconut flakes bring a tropical twist. You can mix and match these toppings to make your pudding exciting and delicious! {{ingredient_image_1}} - First, gather your ingredients. You need chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla bean, maple syrup, and sea salt. - In a mixing bowl, combine all these ingredients. Add 1/2 cup of chia seeds and 2 cups of almond milk. - Now, scrape the seeds from your vanilla bean and add them to the bowl. If you don’t have a vanilla bean, use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract instead. - Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. - Whisk the mixture well to prevent clumping. Make sure the chia seeds blend evenly with the liquids. - Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the fridge. - Let it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid. - The pudding will turn thick and creamy. Before serving, stir the pudding well. If it's too thick, add a splash of almond milk to adjust it. - Once the pudding is ready, scoop it into bowls or jars. - You can add your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, sliced banana, granola, or toasted coconut flakes work great. - Enjoy this tasty, healthy treat cold! To make the best vanilla bean chia pudding, you need the right texture. If your pudding is too thick, add more almond milk. This will help it become creamier. Stir well after adding milk to mix everything evenly. For a smooth flavor, mix the ingredients well at the start. This helps distribute the vanilla bean and maple syrup evenly. You can make your chia pudding even better. Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also use extracts like almond or coconut for a twist. If you want to switch things up, swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar. Each choice changes the taste and keeps it fun. How you serve your pudding matters. Jarring it can create a beautiful layered look. This makes it appealing to the eye. Use seasonal toppings for extra color and freshness. Fresh berries or banana slices brighten the dish. Granola adds crunch, while toasted coconut gives a tropical vibe. These toppings not only taste great but also make your pudding look amazing. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh berries and ripe bananas not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your chia pudding. Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist, or incorporate cacao powder for a chocolatey version. Make It Ahead: Chia pudding can be prepared up to 5 days in advance, making it a convenient option for meal prep or quick breakfasts. Adjust Sweetness: Taste your mixture before refrigerating, and feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to suit your personal preference. {{image_2}} You can change the taste of your vanilla bean chia pudding easily. Here are two fun ideas: - Chocolate vanilla bean chia pudding: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to your mixture. This gives it a rich chocolate flavor. You can also sprinkle some chocolate chips on top for extra sweetness. - Coconut vanilla bean chia pudding: Swap almond milk for coconut milk. This adds a tropical twist. You can also top it with toasted coconut flakes for more crunch. It’s simple to make this pudding fit your diet: - Nut-free alternatives: Use oat milk or rice milk instead of almond milk. This keeps your pudding nut-free and just as tasty. - Sugar-free options: Replace maple syrup with mashed bananas or stevia. This way, you can enjoy a sweet treat without added sugar. You can serve your chia pudding in several cool ways: - Chia pudding parfaits: Layer your pudding with fresh fruit and granola in a tall glass. This makes it look fancy and adds great textures. - Layered dessert cups: Alternate layers of chia pudding with yogurt or mousse. This creates a beautiful dessert that impresses everyone. Chia pudding lasts about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Glass jars or plastic containers with lids work well. This keeps the pudding safe from smells and helps it stay creamy. Yes, you can freeze chia pudding. It freezes well and lasts for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. You can also leave it at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, stir well. If it's too thick, mix in a little almond milk to get the right texture. Check for any off smells or a change in color. If you see mold, toss the pudding. If it tastes sour, it’s best to throw it away. Always trust your senses; they are your best guide for food safety. How to make chia pudding without vanilla beans? You can skip the vanilla bean and use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract instead. It’s easier and still gives great flavor. Just add it to your mixing bowl with the other ingredients. You can also try almond extract for a different twist. Can I use other types of milk? Yes, you can use any plant-based milk. Soy milk or coconut milk works well too. Cow's milk is fine if you prefer dairy. Each milk gives a unique taste, so feel free to experiment. What are the health benefits of chia seeds? Chia seeds are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats. They help keep you full and support digestion. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart health. Plus, they are rich in antioxidants. How many calories are in vanilla bean chia pudding? Each serving of vanilla bean chia pudding has about 180 calories. This can vary based on your toppings. Fresh fruits and nuts can add more nutrients and flavor without too many extra calories. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup? Yes, honey is a great substitute. It adds sweetness and pairs well with chia seeds. Just use the same amount as maple syrup. If you prefer a vegan option, stick with maple syrup. What can I substitute for almond milk? If you need a nut-free option, try oat milk or rice milk. Both are smooth and mild in flavor. You can also use hemp milk for a boost of protein. Adjust the amount based on your taste. You have learned how to make delicious chia pudding with simple ingredients and easy steps. We covered the main ingredients like chia seeds and almond milk, plus some tasty toppings. Remember to chill the pudding for the best texture and flavor. You can also try fun variations and tricks to make it unique. Store it right, and you'll enjoy this treat for days. Now, use what you've learned to create your own tasty chia pudding!

Vanilla Dream Chia Pudding

A delicious and nutritious chia pudding flavored with vanilla and sweetened with maple syrup.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine Vegan
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup chia seeds
  • 2 cups almond milk
  • 1 whole vanilla bean
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 pinch sea salt
  • none toppings: fresh berries, sliced banana, granola, or toasted coconut flakes

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, scraped vanilla bean seeds and pod (or vanilla extract), maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt.
  • Whisk the mixture well to prevent clumping of chia seeds.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and turn into a pudding-like texture.
  • Once set, stir the pudding well before serving. If it's too thick, add a splash of almond milk to reach your desired consistency.
  • Scoop the chia pudding into serving bowls or jars.
  • Top with your choice of fresh berries, sliced banana, granola, or toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
  • Serve chilled, and enjoy this delicious and nutritious treat!

Notes

For a creamier texture, use a high-quality almond milk.
Keyword chia pudding, healthy snack, vegan dessert