Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding

Name: Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup chia seeds; 2 cups coconut milk (or any milk of your choice); 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Optional toppings: sliced almonds, granola, or additional strawberries

Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen Favorites

I absolutely love making Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding for breakfast or as a light dessert. The combination of creamy coconut milk, fresh strawberries, and the unique texture of chia seeds creates a delightful and nutritious treat. It only takes a few minutes to prepare, and I can customize it with different toppings like granola or nuts. Plus, it's a fantastic way to incorporate more superfoods into my diet. This recipe is an easy and delicious way to enjoy chia seeds and fresh fruit!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:01:36.212Z

When I first tried making chia pudding, I was really surprised by how simple it was to whip up such a healthy treat at home. The chia seeds need some time to absorb the liquid, but that’s exactly what makes this recipe so easy - just mix and let it sit! I love the combination of strawberries and vanilla because it brings a fresh and sweet flavor that really brightens my day.

One tip I discovered is to let the pudding chill for at least 2 hours before serving, as this allows the chia seeds to bloom fully, creating that perfect pudding-like texture. It’s an effortless dish for breakfast or a snack, and I always feel good knowing I’m eating something nutritious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Layers of fresh strawberry flavor with rich vanilla essence
Incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Healthy and satisfying, perfect for meal prep

Understanding Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the backbone of this pudding, providing both texture and nutritional benefits. They expand up to 10 times their weight when soaked, which is what gives this pudding its creamy consistency. It's important to stir the mixture at least once during the first hour of refrigeration to ensure even hydration, preventing clumps and ensuring every spoonful is perfectly creamy.

Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making this pudding not just a treat but also a powerful superfood. If you're looking to boost your nutrient intake, you could even add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed to the mix, enhancing the pudding's flavor profile while packing in more fiber.

Customizing Your Pudding

While this recipe features strawberries, don’t hesitate to get creative with your fruit choices! Blueberries, mango, or even diced apples can make excellent substitutions. Remember that different fruits may alter the pudding's sweetness, so you might want to adjust the maple syrup or honey accordingly. Seasonal fruits not only add flavor but can also enhance the nutritional benefits of this dish.

For a twist on flavor, consider infusing the pudding with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Just a pinch can elevate the taste profile without adding any additional calories. You could also incorporate a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate version, balancing the richness of the cocoa with the fresh fruit's brightness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding:

Ingredients

1/2 cup chia seeds
2 cups coconut milk (or any milk of your choice)
1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Optional toppings: sliced almonds, granola, or additional strawberries

Now that you have everything, let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your pudding:

Mix the base

In a mixing bowl, combine chia seeds, coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure there are no clumps of chia seeds.

Let it set

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. The chia seeds will expand and create a pudding-like consistency.

Add strawberries

Once the pudding is ready, gently fold in the sliced strawberries. You can reserve some for topping.

Serve and enjoy

Spoon the chia pudding into bowls or glasses. Top with additional strawberries and your choice of toppings like almonds or granola before serving.

Now you're ready to indulge in this delightful pudding!

Pro Tips

For an even creamier texture, blend the coconut milk before mixing it with the chia seeds. You can also experiment with other fruits like mango or blueberries.

Make-Ahead Convenience

This chia pudding is an ideal make-ahead option for busy mornings. After preparing, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This means you can whip up a batch on Sunday and enjoy a healthy breakfast throughout the week. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving as it may thicken slightly over time.

If you plan to enjoy it later in the week, you might want to keep your toppings separate until serving to maintain their crunch. Store sliced almonds or granola in a small container to ensure they remain fresh and don’t get soggy.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your pudding doesn't thicken as expected, it might be due to not using enough chia seeds or not mixing well initially. Make sure to mix thoroughly and let it set for the full recommended time. If you find the texture too thick, simply stir in a little additional milk until you reach your desired consistency.

On the other hand, if you accidentally make it too runny, you can mix in a bit more chia seeds, allowing it to sit for an additional 30 minutes. This can help absorb excess liquid, bringing your pudding back to the ideal creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use any milk you prefer, such as almond milk or oat milk.

→ How long does the pudding last in the fridge?

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

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients. Just confirm that your sweetener is also vegan.

→ Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! It’s a great make-ahead snack or breakfast option.