Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding

Name: Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup chia seeds; 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice); 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen Co.

I absolutely love making Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding for breakfast or as a refreshing snack. The combination of creamy chia seeds with sweet strawberries and fragrant vanilla creates a delightful treat that feels indulgent yet is incredibly healthy. Preparing this pudding only takes a few minutes, and it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings. Plus, the vibrant color and layers make it visually stunning, and I find that kids adore it too!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:45:36.044Z

Making Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding has become a ritual for me, especially on sunny mornings. I enjoy experimenting with different flavors, but the classic strawberry and vanilla combination is always a winner. One tip I learned is to let the pudding soak for at least 2 hours or overnight. This way, the chia seeds absorb the almond milk, creating that perfect pudding-like texture that I love.

Another thing I appreciate about this recipe is its versatility. Whether I want to keep it simple or add a bit of crunch with some granola on top, it's all about personal preference. Plus, the added benefit of omega-3 fatty acids from chia seeds makes it a nutritious choice for any time of the day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, nutritious texture that satisfies cravings
Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and color
Perfectly versatile for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

Chia Seeds: The Star Ingredient

Chia seeds are packed with nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. This helps make the pudding a filling option for breakfast or a snack. When chia seeds are mixed with a liquid, they swell and create a gel-like texture. Letting the mixture sit initially for about 10 minutes ensures they absorb the liquid properly, leading to a creamy consistency. If you find your pudding too thick later, adding a splash of almond milk can help adjust the texture.

It's important to stir the chia pudding mixture after it has rested for the first 10 minutes. This step prevents the seeds from clumping together, ensuring an even distribution throughout your pudding. If your chia pudding develops a few clumps post refrigeration, simply whisk it gently until the mixture smooths out. Perfecting the texture is key to achieving that indulgent feel in every bite.

Seasoning Your Strawberries

The strawberry layer in this pudding is not just for color; it adds a vibrant freshness that balances the creamy chia pudding. When tossing your strawberries with maple syrup and lemon juice, remember that the acidity from the lemon helps enhance their natural sweetness and adds a touch of brightness. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste, ensuring a perfect balance for your palate. Allowing the strawberry mixture to sit for a few minutes also enables the juices to release, creating a delicious syrup.

If strawberries aren’t in season, feel free to substitute with other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries. These alternatives will have a different but delightful flavor profile. For a tropical twist, diced mango or pineapple also work wonderfully! Just keep in mind that the sweetness and acidity may vary, so adjust the maple syrup and lemon juice accordingly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding is its make-ahead capability. By preparing the chia pudding the night before, you can allow it to fully set in the fridge, ensuring a thick, creamy outcome that’s ready for busy mornings. The assembled pudding, including the strawberry layer, can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just keep in mind that the strawberries might soften over time, so consider adding fresh slices on top right before serving.

For those who like to change up their breakfast routine, this recipe is easily scalable. Simply double or triple the ingredient amounts and store them in individual jars for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week. Adjust your layering technique as needed; for a fun twist, you could blend the strawberries to create a puree and swirl it through the chia pudding for a colorful effect.

Ingredients

Chia Pudding Base

1/2 cup chia seeds
2 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberry Layer

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Enjoy your delicious pudding!

Instructions

Prepare the Chia Pudding

In a mixing bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure there are no clumps. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent the seeds from settling at the bottom.

Refrigerate

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Prepare Strawberry Layer

In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries with maple syrup and lemon juice. Gently toss and set aside.

Assemble Pudding

Once the chia pudding is ready, layer it in serving glasses or bowls, alternating with the strawberry mixture. Top with extra strawberry slices if desired.

Serve

Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing treat any time of the day!

Enjoy your delicious pudding!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can experiment with different fruits, such as bananas or blueberries. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, adjust the maple syrup to your liking!

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding can be enjoyed in several ways. For an added crunch, consider topping it with granola or nuts just before serving. This combination not only enhances the texture but also adds extra nutrients. Alternatively, you can layer some fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch, which complements the fruity flavors beautifully.

If you're feeling adventurous, try drizzling a bit of balsamic reduction on top for a gourmet touch. This unexpected pairing can elevate your pudding to dessert-like status, making it an elegant option for entertaining guests. Additionally, serve it in clear cups or jars to showcase the beautiful layers, making every presentation feel special.

Troubleshooting

If your chia pudding doesn't thicken as expected, it may be due to insufficient soaking time or too much liquid. Make sure you let the pudding sit for at least two hours, or better yet, overnight. If you’re in a hurry, adding an extra tablespoon of chia seeds can help achieve a thicker texture more quickly.

Another common issue is clumping. If it happens, stirring the mixture again after it has rested is crucial. If you find clumps have still formed after chilling, try blending the mixture briefly to smooth it out. This is an easy fix for achieving that creamy texture everyone loves!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Absolutely! You can use coconut milk, soy milk, or any milk that you prefer.

→ How long does the pudding last in the fridge?

The chia pudding stays fresh for up to five days in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients.

→ Is there a substitute for maple syrup?

You can use honey or agave syrup, but note that honey is not vegan.