Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding

Name: Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup chia seeds; 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice); 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

Highlighted under: Green Eating

I discovered this Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding on a lazy afternoon when I was craving something healthy yet delightful. The creamy, indulgent texture, combined with the fresh, tangy sweetness of strawberries, blissfully surprised me. It only takes a few minutes to prepare, and I love how versatile it is; you can enjoy it for breakfast or as a light dessert. Plus, the nutritional benefits of chia seeds are fantastic, making this a guilt-free treat I keep coming back to over and over again!

Created by

Monicas

Last updated on 2026-02-21T19:38:18.455Z

Last summer, when the strawberries were at their peak, I decided to put them to good use in this chia pudding. I was amazed at how simply soaking chia seeds transformed them into a creamy, pudding-like consistency that paired beautifully with the strawberries. To enhance the flavor, I added a drizzle of honey and a splash of vanilla extract—a game-changer!

What I love most about this pudding is how you can make it ahead of time. I typically whip up a batch and let it set in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes as the seeds swell and absorb the fruity goodness. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries blended with creamy chia seeds create an irresistible combination.
A nutritious option packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
Can be easily customized with your favorite fruits or toppings.

Creating the Perfect Texture

Achieving the ideal pudding texture is all about the balance between chia seeds and liquid. The chia seeds absorb the almond milk, swelling to create a creamy consistency. If your pudding seems too runny after refrigerating, simply stir in a bit more chia seeds and let it set for an additional hour. Conversely, if the mixture appears too thick, adding a splash more almond milk can help achieve that delightful creaminess you’re looking for.

When whisking together the ingredients, it is essential to mix thoroughly to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed. This prevents clumping and allows for uniform absorption of liquid. I like to use a whisk instead of a fork because it incorporates air into the mixture, creating a lighter pudding. After mixing, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before the refrigeration step to hydrate the seeds evenly.

Customization and Flavor Variations

The beauty of chia pudding lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different fruits beyond strawberries. Seasonal fruits like berries, mangoes, or peaches can add unique flavors and textures. You can also incorporate ingredients like cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist or matcha for a hint of earthy richness. Just remember that the amount of sweetener might need adjusting, depending on the fruit's natural sweetness.

For added richness, consider using coconut milk instead of almond milk, which infuses a tropical flavor. Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top for extra crunch! If you're looking for a protein boost, blending in a scoop of your favorite protein powder can break the monotony and turn this pudding into a post-workout snack.

Ingredients

For the Pudding

1/4 cup chia seeds
1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

Optional Toppings

You can add nuts, additional fruits, or granola as toppings.

Instructions

Mix Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chia seeds, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Add Strawberries

Fold in the chopped strawberries, making sure they are evenly distributed.

Refrigerate

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture into individual serving jars. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until it thickens.

Serve

Once set, give the pudding a good stir and serve chilled, topped with extra strawberries or your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy pudding!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different fruits or sweeteners to find your personal favorite combination.

Make-Ahead Tips

Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to three days in advance. Just ensure that you store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps preserve freshness and flavor while ensuring it's ready whenever you need a quick breakfast or snack.

If you prefer individual portions for easy grabbing, dividing the pudding into small mason jars is a smart choice. Not only does this make serving easy, but it also allows you to add different toppings to each jar based on your mood or dietary needs.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container to maintain its fresh taste. The chia pudding will keep well in the fridge for up to five days. I recommend consuming it within this timeframe for the best flavor and consistency, as it may continue to thicken over time.

For serving, consider adding fresh herbs like mint for a refreshing twist or pairing the pudding with a dollop of Greek yogurt to enhance creaminess. Another suggestion is to layer the pudding with granola for added crunch, creating a visually appealing and satisfying parfait.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! It's perfect to prepare a day before and let it set overnight.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, just use a plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.

→ What can I substitute for almond milk?

Any milk will work, including soy, coconut, or oat milk.

→ How long does chia pudding last in the fridge?

It typically lasts up to 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.