Yogurt Chia Pudding

Ch-ch-ch-chia! Ok, so yogurt chia pudding does not involve Chia Pets, but this little jingle is a testament to how fun this recipe is to make! We mean, who knew pudding could be healthy?! Chia pudding has been a favorite go-to snack and breakfast of ours for over a decade. And if you know us, then you know we're always trying to incorporate more protein into our recipes. So, we added plain yogurt and protein powder to give this chia pudding an extra boost.

Where our meal-preppers at? Good news! This chia pudding can be stored for up to 5 days in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. We like to make three days-worth of chia pudding so that we can give myself a few stress-free mornings – because we all need more of those!

What stands out

If you love tapioca then you’ll love our yogurt chia pudding! The small black seeds expand in liquid, which in turn, thickens the dish. Chia has a similar mouthfeel to tapioca, in that they pop a bit when chewed on. If you are not a fan of the texture of chia seeds, you can blend this pudding recipe after the chia has absorbed the liquid and expanded. This method gives you a creamy and smooth consistency, while retaining all the nutritional benefits. The options for toppings are endless, but fresh berries and granola are usually our go-to’s. Let’s make it!

How to Prepare

In a bowl or mason jar combine almond milk, yogurt, salt, vanilla, and maple syrup. Mix in the chia seeds last.

Wait 15 minutes for the mixture to thicken. Add optional protein powder and stir again to break up any seed clumps.

Cover and refrigerate 4-8 hours, or until the pudding thickens.

Add toppings, such as fresh fruit or granola. Enjoy!

Kitchen tip

For a smooth pudding, add the thickened mixture to a blender and blend until you get a creamy, mousse-like texture.

Swaps

1. Mix in your favorite protein powder, nut butter and substitute yogurt for blended cottage cheese to create a high-protein pudding.
2. For vegan pudding, feel free to substitute in your favorite vegan yogurt.
3. Sweeten your pudding with monk fruit or Stevia instead of maple syrup or honey.
4. Play with different flavor profiles by adding chocolate, tropical fruit, or seasonal flavors.

Serve it with

• Top this pudding with crunchy additions, like granola, hemp seeds, nuts, and toasted coconut flakes.
• Enjoy with fresh berries, sliced banana, dried fruit, or diced mango.
• Indulge in breakfast pastries like our Healthy Chocolate Muffins and Blender Banana Bread.
• For savory, high-protein pairings, enjoy with Oven Cooked Bacon and Copycat Starbucks Egg-Bites.

About Chia Seeds

This yogurt chia pudding gives you all the indulgence without the guilt! When clean ingredients combine with one powerful superfood, the results are healthy and !

• Chia seeds are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants. In fact, this tiny superfood is known to help stabilize blood sugar spikes, support heart health and promote healthy bones!
• This plant-based source of protein is also rich in fiber and Omega-3 fatty acids, not to mention vital minerals for hydration and endurance such as magnesium.
• Chia seeds go waaaaay back. 3000 years to be exact! They were a staple in the diets of ancient Aztecs and Mayans. Consequently, the word ‘chia’ derives from the Mayan word for strength, since it was used by warriors for endurance.

Questions

Why is our chia seed pudding runny?

If your pudding is runny, you probably added too much liquid. Feel free to add more chia seeds and allow them to thicken for 15 more minutes before checking the consistency.

How long does chia seed pudding last in the fridge?

Absolutely! This recipe is suited to meal prepping and can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days.

Can we make this vegan?

Yes! Feel free to substitute the yogurt with your favorite vegan brand.

How can we make chia seed pudding smooth?

Once your pudding has thickened, blend the mixture to create a smooth, mousse-like texture.

Can we add protein powder to this recipe?

Absolutely! For best results, add your favorite protein powder to the mixture after the chia seeds are hydrated.

Ingredients

Makes 2 servings

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup plain yogurt, any variety you like
• pinch of salt
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup, or honey
• ¼ cup chia seeds
• 1 scoop protein powder, optional

Equipment

• Measuring Cups + Spoons
• Liquid Measuring Cup
• Small Mason Jars (250ml)
• Mixing Bowls

Method

1. In a bowl or mason jar, add the almond milk, yogurt, salt, vanilla, and maple syrup. Stir or whisk well. Add the chia seeds and stir again.
2. Wait 15 minutes for the mixture to to thicken and stir again (this will help break up any seed clumps). Optionally, add your favorite protein powder and whisk again.
3. Cover and refrigerate until the pudding thickens; anywhere from 4 to 8 hours or until the dish reaches your desired texture.
4. For a creamy, pudding-like texture, once the mixture is thick, add it to a blender and blend until smooth. Enjoy with any toppings, such as fresh fruits or granola. This pudding will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Kitchen notes

• High-protein Additions: Mix in your favorite protein powder, nut butter and substitute yogurt for blended cottage cheese to create a high-protein pudding.
• Vegan Substitutes: For vegan pudding, feel free to substitute in your favorite vegan yogurt.
• Sweeteners: Sweeten your pudding with monk fruit or Stevia instead of maple syrup or honey.
• Flavor Profiles: Play with different flavor profiles by adding chocolate, tropical fruit, or seasonal flavors.