Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding

Name: Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup almond milk; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

I absolutely love making this Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding because it's a delightful and healthy treat! With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a delicious dessert that's not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy vanilla creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist. It's perfect for breakfast or a refreshing afternoon snack, and I appreciate how easy it is to prepare ahead of time. Give it a try, and you’ll see how satisfying this pudding can be!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:13:27.485Z

When I first tried making chia pudding, I was surprised how something so simple could yield such incredible results. The key is allowing the chia seeds to absorb the almond milk, which creates that delightful, creamy texture. I often make this pudding in advance and let it sit overnight in the fridge, which not only thickens it but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

The addition of fresh strawberries gives a vibrant sweetness, and I always opt for ripe fruit for the best flavor. For an extra special touch, a splash of vanilla extract ties everything together. You’ll be amazed at how satisfying this dessert is, both for you and your guests!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that’s both satisfying and nourishing
Bright and refreshing flavor from fresh strawberries
Versatile recipe that can be customized with toppings

Chia Seeds: The Superfood Base

Chia seeds are the star of this Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding, providing not only texture but also a nutritional powerhouse. When soaked in liquid, these tiny seeds expand and create a gel-like consistency that forms the base of the pudding. This process typically takes about 30 minutes, but for best results, letting them sit longer enhances their pudding-like texture.

In addition to being a thickening agent, chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making this a nourishing option. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you could substitute half of the chia seeds with ground flaxseeds, but be aware that the texture will differ slightly.

Choosing the Right Sweetener

The choice of sweetener can greatly affect the overall flavor of your pudding. Honey adds a floral sweetness that complements the strawberries beautifully, while maple syrup gives a unique depth and slight caramel flavor. If you're aiming for a lower glycemic option, consider using agave syrup or even a few drops of stevia, although the latter may alter the pudding's flavor balance.

It's important to taste the mixture after adding the sweetener, as the flavor can change significantly once paired with the strawberries. Start with less sweetener than you think you need; you can always add more later. This step is especially useful if you plan to enjoy the pudding with additional toppings like granola or nuts.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about this chia pudding is its make-ahead convenience. Prepare a batch the night before, and you have a healthy breakfast or snack ready to go the next day. If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the pudding can last for up to five days, making it perfect for meal prep.

When storing, keep the pudding and chopped strawberries separate until just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the fruit. If you want to freeze the pudding, portion it into freezer-safe containers, but note that the texture may be slightly altered when thawed. I recommend consuming it fresh for the best taste experience.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding:

Ingredients

1 cup almond milk
1/4 cup chia seeds
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Mix these ingredients together, and you’re off to a great start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding:

Prepare the Chia Mixture

In a bowl, combine the almond milk, chia seeds, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed.

Let It Set

Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping. Cover the bowl and store it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Serve with Strawberries

Once the pudding has thickened, stir in the chopped strawberries. Spoon the pudding into serving bowls or jars, and top with additional strawberries if desired.

Enjoy your refreshing pudding!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including a pinch of cinnamon or a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder in the chia mixture. You can also substitute other fruits, like blueberries or bananas, based on your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, consider layering the chia pudding with sliced strawberries in clear glasses, creating a visually appealing dessert. This method not only makes it look delightful but also allows for a beautiful contrast between the creamy pudding and the vibrant fruit layers.

You can also elevate the flavor by adding toppings like shredded coconut, nuts, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt to increase the protein content. Each of these additions enhances the flavor profile while adding interesting textures.

Variations to Try

While this recipe focuses on strawberry and vanilla, there are countless variations you can experiment with. Try substituting different fruits like blueberries, mango, or banana, which can change the entire flavor profile of the pudding. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly, as different fruits have varying levels of natural sugars.

For a tropical twist, consider incorporating coconut milk in place of almond milk, which not only adds a lovely creaminess but also a delightful coconut flavor that pairs well with tropical fruits.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chia pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, so it's perfect for meal prep.

→ What can I use instead of almond milk?

You can substitute with any milk of your choice, such as coconut milk, soy milk, or dairy milk.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, this recipe is completely vegan!