Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding

Name: Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 12 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup chia seeds; 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice); 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla extract); 1/4 cup maple syrup (adjust to taste); A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Creations

I love making Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding for a simple yet luxurious dessert. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavor of real vanilla bean creates a delightful treat that satisfies my sweet tooth without the guilt. This pudding is perfect for meal prep, as it thickens beautifully overnight and is ready to enjoy in the morning. Plus, the versatility allows for endless toppings, from fresh fruits to crunchy nuts, making it a wonderful addition to my breakfast or snack routine.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:42:28.450Z

Creating Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding is a delightful experience that showcases how simple ingredients can yield scrumptious results. I remember the first time I decided to use real vanilla beans instead of extract; it completely transformed the flavor. The little flecks of vanilla provide not just flavor but visual appeal, making the pudding feel indulgent.

One of my best tips is to mix the chia seeds with milk and let them sit for at least 10 minutes before blending in the rest of the ingredients. This ensures an even consistency and prevents clumping, allowing each bite to be smooth and satisfying. Trust me, this pudding is a game changer!

Here's Why You'll Love This Recipe
Lusciously creamy texture that's satisfying and wholesome
Real vanilla bean gives an aromatic and rich flavor
Perfect as a breakfast or dessert, adaptable to any palate

Understanding Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the star of this pudding, known for their remarkable ability to absorb liquids and expand. This property not only thickens the pudding but also adds a unique texture that’s both satisfying and nutritious. When combined with almond milk, they create a delightful gel-like consistency, which is both filling and heart-healthy. Make sure to use fresh chia seeds for the best results; older seeds may not swell properly, leading to less desirable texture.

In addition to being a thickening agent, chia seeds are packed with nutrients. They are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making this pudding as nutritious as it is delicious. Soaking the seeds allows the body to better absorb these nutrients, enhancing the health benefits of your dessert. Plus, the gel-like texture is great for vegan and dairy-free diets, making this pudding a universally appealing option.

Perfecting the Vanilla Bean Flavor

Using a real vanilla bean elevates this pudding significantly. The tiny black seeds that come from the bean infuse the almond milk with a depth of flavor that vanilla extract simply can't match. If you're using a vanilla bean, make sure to scrape the seeds properly; this ensures that the flavor is distributed evenly throughout the pudding. If you don’t have a vanilla bean on hand, high-quality vanilla extract can serve as a reasonable substitute, though the flavor will be less complex.

To enhance the aromatic qualities of your pudding, consider warming the almond milk slightly before mixing. This can help release the oils in the vanilla bean, increasing the flavor intensity. Just be sure not to overheat the milk; it should be warm but not boiling. A slight warming can make a noticeable difference in how fragrant your pudding becomes, so it's worth the extra effort.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make delicious Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding.

Ingredients

1/2 cup chia seeds
2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
1/4 cup maple syrup (adjust to taste)
A pinch of salt

Feel free to experiment with toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or granola.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up your Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding.

Mix Chia Seeds and Liquid

In a mixing bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, scraped vanilla bean, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.

Let it Sit

Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent clumps from forming.

Blend and Chill

After 10 minutes, blend the mixture briefly to ensure a smooth consistency, then transfer it to containers. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Serve

Once set, serve your pudding chilled with your favorite toppings.

Enjoy this healthy and delicious pudding!

Pro Tips

For extra sweetness, feel free to add more maple syrup or honey according to your taste. You can also substitute or mix different types of milk for a unique flavor every time!

Storing and Serving Tips

Once your chia seed pudding has set and thickened, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it an ideal meal prep option. I recommend keeping it in airtight containers to maintain freshness. You can also mix and match different toppings each day, adding variety to your breakfast or snack without much extra effort.

When serving, consider layering the pudding with your choice of toppings for an appealing presentation. Fresh fruits like berries, bananas, or sliced kiwi not only add color but also a burst of flavor. Nuts or granola can introduce a satisfying crunch, making each spoonful a delightful experience. You can even swirl in yogurt or nut butter for a protein boost.

Variations to Try

For those looking to switch things up, there are endless variations you can explore with this vanilla bean chia seed pudding. Try using coconut milk instead of almond milk for a tropical twist. The creaminess of coconut will pair beautifully with the vanilla flavor, creating a decadent dessert that feels indulgent yet healthy.

You can also incorporate different sweeteners besides maple syrup. Agave nectar or honey (if not vegan) works well as a substitute. For a fruitier flavor, consider blending in pureed fruits like mango or banana into your pudding before chilling. This allows for a fruity base that adds both flavor and natural sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Absolutely! You can use coconut milk, cashew milk, or any dairy milk depending on your preference.

→ How long can I store chia pudding?

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just ensure you keep it in an airtight container.

→ Can I use powdered vanilla instead of vanilla beans?

Yes, you can use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or powdered vanilla instead of vanilla beans if needed.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding is completely vegan as long as you use plant-based milk.