Overnight Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding with Fruit

Chia seed pudding is a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack that is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Chia seeds are a good source of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a nutrient-rich addition to your diet.  In this post, we will provide you with our quick ultimate guide to chia seed pudding, including tips on how to make it, how to store it, and how to customize it.

What are chia seeds?

Chia seeds are the edible seeds of Salvia hispanica, a flowering plant native to Mexico and Guatemala. They are small, black or white seeds that have a slightly nutty flavor. Chia seeds are a good source of protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.

Benefits of chia seeds

Chia seeds have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including:

• Weight loss: Chia seeds are high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied after eating. This can help you eat less calories and lose weight.
• Improved blood sugar control: Chia seeds can help to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. This can help to keep your blood sugar levels stable, which is especially beneficial for people with diabetes.
• Reduced inflammation: Chia seeds are a good source of antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is linked to a number of chronic diseases, so reducing inflammation can have a number of health benefits.

How to use chia seeds

Chia seeds can be eaten raw, soaked, or ground. They can be added to a variety of foods, such as smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, and baked goods. Chia seeds can also be soaked in milk, water or juice to make chia seed pudding.

Ready to try our Overnight Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding with Fruit Recipe?  This is a simple recipe that is best made hours ahead or overnight to allow the chia seeds lots of time to absorb the liquid and form a gel-like tapioca-pudding-like texture.

 

Ingredients for my Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding with Fruit:

• 1/4 c. Chia Seeds
• 1 c. Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk or Oat Milk
  
• 1 tsp. Stevia or a drizzle of Honey
  
• 1/4 tsp. Vanilla Extract
• 1/3 c. Sliced Strawberries
• 1/2 c. Sliced Banana
• 1 Scoop Vanilla Protein Powder (optional)
  

Instructions for my Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding with Fruit:

1. In a lidded container, combine the chia seeds, protein powder if using, almond milk, stevia or honey, and vanilla extract.  I LOVE these containers for both overnight oats and chia seed puddings!
   
2. Stir vigorously until the chia seeds and protein powder are evenly distributed.  Place lid securely on container.
   
3. Shake vigorously for several seconds, remove the lid and stir away any clumped chia seeds.
   
4. Return the lid and refrigerate for an hour.  Remove container and shake vigorously for several seconds, stirring away any visible clumps.
5. Place lidded container back into the refrigerator and chill for at least 3-4 hours or overnight.  I have the best results with overnight chilling. 
   
6. Stir the pudding before serving and top with berries and banana slices.

How to Store Chia Seed Pudding:

Chia seed pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it a great recipe for meal preppers! To store chia seed pudding, simply keep it in an airtight container.  Keep the cut fruit separate from the pudding or add fresh fruit right before serving leftovers or prepped servings.

How to Customize Chia Seed Pudding:

There are many ways to make this recipe work for you and your family!  Here are some tips to customize a basic chia seed pudding. 

* Add different flavors of liquid, such as chocolate almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk.

* Add different sweeteners, such as maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar. 

* Add different fruits, such as blueberries, apples, or mangoes--even pumpkin or pineapple. 

* Add different nuts or seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds. 

* Spice it up with cinnamon, apple pie spice, or nutmeg.

Chia seeds are a healthy and versatile food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They are a good source of nutrients and have been shown to have a number of health benefits. 

If you are looking for a healthy and delicious way to add chia seeds to your diet, try making this chia seed pudding.