Healthy Chia Pudding Recipe for a Nutritious Breakfast or Snack

Chia seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition, offering a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. When combined with your favorite milk and natural sweeteners, these little seeds transform into a creamy, pudding-like treat that’s as delightful to eat as it is beneficial for your health.

Here is a simple and delectable chia seed pudding recipe that you can customize with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re a busy professional, a dedicated fitness enthusiast, or someone looking to add more healthy options to your diet, this chia pudding recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

---

Delicious and Nutritious Chia Pudding Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh fruits for topping (e.g., berries, banana slices)
• Nuts or seeds for topping (optional)
• A sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure that the chia seeds are evenly distributed and not clumping together.
2. Let it Sit: Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. Stir the mixture again after the first 15 minutes to prevent the chia seeds from settling at the bottom.
3. Check the Consistency: After the pudding has set, it should have a thick, gel-like consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the chia pudding into individual serving bowls or jars. Top with your favorite fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
5. Optional Variations:
   • Chocolate Chia Pudding: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the mixture before refrigerating.
   • Berry Chia Pudding: Blend a handful of berries with the milk before adding the chia seeds for a fruity twist.

The higher protein content in the chia seeds makes this a great snack or breakfast. Check out my blog, Healthy Eating Made Easy: The Power of Meal Prepping and add this one to your planning.

Here are the approximate macros for a basic serving of chia pudding without additional toppings:

Basic Chia Seed Pudding Macros (per serving)

Serving Size: 1 cup

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Macros:

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: ~9g
• Carbohydrates: ~34g
  • Fiber: ~16g
  • Sugars: ~13g
• Fat: ~12g
  • Saturated Fat: ~1g

Breakdown:

• Chia Seeds (1/4 cup):
  • Calories: ~200 kcal
  • Protein: ~8g
  • Carbohydrates: ~20g (including 16g fiber)
  • Fat: ~12g (including 1g saturated fat)
• Unsweetened Almond Milk (1 cup):
  • Calories: ~30 kcal
  • Protein: ~1g
  • Carbohydrates: ~1g
  • Fat: ~2.5g (minimal saturated fat)
• Maple Syrup (1 tablespoon):
  • Calories: ~52 kcal
  • Protein: ~0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~13g (all sugars)
  • Fat: ~0g
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon):
  • Negligible calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fat

Notes:

• Toppings: The macros will change based on the toppings you choose. For example, adding 1/4 cup of mixed berries will add approximately 20 calories, 0.5g protein, 5g carbs (including 2g fiber), and 0g fat.
• Adjustments: You can adjust the sweetness by using less maple syrup or substituting it with a lower-calorie sweetener to reduce the carbohydrate content.

These macros can help you keep track of your nutritional intake and adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs.

---

Chia pudding is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to keep things exciting. Share your favorite combinations with us in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our email list for more healthy recipes and wellness tips.

Enjoy your journey to a healthier you with this delightful chia pudding!