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Creamy 5-Ingredient Vanilla Chia Pudding: The Perfect Base Recipe

A glass jar filled with creamy, prepared chia pudding sitting on a white surface near a window.

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Make this simple, creamy vanilla chia pudding using just five basic ingredients. It is an easy make-ahead breakfast or quick dessert that sets perfectly overnight. This recipe provides the foundation for many variations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond or soy)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sweetener of choice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Combine the chia seeds, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt in a jar or container with a lid.
  2. Stir the mixture well for about one minute. Wait five minutes and stir again thoroughly to break up any clumps and prevent the seeds from settling at the bottom.
  3. Cover the container and place it in the refrigerator to set for at least four hours, or preferably overnight.
  4. Check the texture before serving. If it is too thick, stir in a splash more milk until you reach your desired creamy consistency.
  5. Serve cold with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a thicker pudding, use a 1:3 ratio of chia seeds to liquid. For a thinner texture, use a 1:4 ratio.
  • To make Chocolate Chia Pudding, add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder with the dry ingredients.
  • To make a High Protein Chia Pudding, stir in 1 scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder, or 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt before refrigerating. You may need a little extra liquid.
  • This pudding keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it excellent for meal prep breakfast ideas.

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