FREE 5-Ingredient Recipe EBook

• Why You’ll Love This Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
• Ingredients & Substitutions
• The Right Chia Pudding Ratio
• How To Make Chia Pudding
• Troubleshooting Tips
• Flavor Variations
• Storage Instructions
• Is Chia Pudding Healthy?
• Toppings For Chia Pudding Recipes
• More Healthy Meal Prep Breakfast Ideas
• Recommended Tools
• Chia Seed Pudding Recipe card
• Recipe Reviews

This overnight chia seed pudding recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s packed with nutrients and tastes amazing! It takes just a few minutes to whip up, making it the perfect make-ahead healthy breakfast , snack, or even dessert. I’ll show you how to make chia pudding the basic way and how to make a bunch of different flavors!

These seeds always seem to come in a large bag, so I often mix them into chia jam , crunchy coconut clusters , or even a detox smoothie . This is one of my favorite ways to get even more health benefits of chia seeds into my day!

Why You’ll Love This Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

• Simple plain version, with 5 sweet flavor variations
• Smooth, creamy consistency
• Simple ingredients
• Ready in less than 30 minutes (or make it overnight!)
• Naturally healthy, low carb, gluten-free, paleo, and vegan
• Easily double or quadruple the recipe for meal prep

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best ingredients for pudding with chia seeds, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card .

• Chia Seeds – The main ingredient! Any brand will work, but I like this brand . For best results, make sure your seeds are fresh, as older ones won’t gel as well.
• Almond Milk – I used store-bought almond milk for convenience, but you could easily make homemade almond milk instead. You can also use regular dairy milk, or non-dairy milks like coconut milk or oat milk for nut-free options.
• Maple Syrup – I like to use zero sugar maple syrup , but regular maple syrup or any liquid sweetener will work. Regular honey or zero sugar honey works great as well. (Use one of these sugar-free options for a keto chia pudding.)
• Vanilla Extract – Use high quality extracts for the best overnight chia pudding flavor. You can also use other flavor extracts.

These ingredients make the basic recipe for chia seed pudding, but see below for flavor variations and topping ideas!

The Right Chia Pudding Ratio

As a general rule of thumb, the ratio between chia seeds and liquid for making chia seed pudding is 3 tablespoons chia seeds + 1 cup milk of choice .

However, the optimal ratio depends on how thick you like it and any add-ins. If you add other dry ingredients, these will require extra milk to compensate. If you add other wet ingredients, you may need to reduce the milk.

How To Make Chia Pudding

This section shows how to make chia seed pudding, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card .

1. Mix the main ingredients. In a small bowl or meal prep jar , stir together the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir in any add-ins. If making a flavored version, add the remaining extra ingredients.
3. Let it set. Cover and place the chia pudding in the refrigerator, until thickened. Add toppings and enjoy!

VARIATION: Make smooth chia pudding.

This chia pudding recipe keeps the seeds whole. If you don’t like that texture and want it smooth, simply blend all the ingredients before placing in the fridge.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chia pudding didn’t thicken, don’t worry! Here are a few reasons this could be and how to fix it:

• You need to give it more time. The most common reason that chia seed pudding didn’t set is it just needs more time to thicken. There’s a reason it’s called overnight chia pudding! Wait another 30-60 minutes and see.
• Your chia seeds are old. Older chia seeds don’t gel as well, or may take longer to expand. In this case, adding an extra tablespoon of seeds and giving it more time can help.
• You just need to stir. Sometimes chia pudding recipes can look like they didn’t quite set on top, but are actually just perfect after you stir them.

Flavor Variations

Looking to jazz up your pudding? Here are some simple chia seed pudding variations that cater to every craving.

• Chocolate – Add 1 teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the basic overnight chia pudding recipe. Then, top chocolate chia pudding pudding with 1 tablespoon sugar-free dark chocolate chips (or any kind you like) and some coconut flakes.
• Raspberry – Mash 1/3 cup raspberries in a small bowl, then stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. Top with fresh raspberries.
• Banana – Add 1/2 of a medium mashed banana and stir to combine. Garnish chia pudding recipe with fresh banana slices and chocolate chips.
• Matcha – In a small bowl, whisk 1 teaspoon matcha powder with 1 tablespoon of water. (This will prevent clumping later.) Stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. Top with extra blueberries, raspberries, or your favorite fresh fruit.
• Pumpkin – Stir in 1/4 cup pumpkin puree and 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
• Chai – Stir in a combination of cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, ground ginger, and ground cloves for a chai flavored version.

Storage Instructions

Store chia pudding in jars in the fridge. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the chia seeds can sometimes settle at the bottom.

How Long Does Chia Pudding Last?

Chia seed pudding can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator, so it’s perfect for meal prep.

Can You Freeze Chia Pudding?

Yes, you can freeze chia pudding for up to 1 month. The texture may change slightly once it’s thawed, but is still quite good. Simply defrost in the fridge overnight.

Is Chia Pudding Healthy?

Yes, chia pudding can be a very healthy option. Chia seeds are highly nutritious and are a great source of fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and micronutrients, like magnesium and calcium.

Toppings For Chia Pudding Recipes

Take your pudding from simple to stunning with these tasty and nutritious topping ideas!

• Fruit – Consider adding fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to the basic chia pudding recipe.
• Yogurt – For a creamy and tangy twist, top overnight chia pudding with a dollop of plain or flavored coconut yogurt , and sprinkle with some granola or chopped nuts for added crunch.
• Nuts & Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, chia, flax, or pumpkin seeds can add nice texture.
• Chocolate Chips – Whether you prefer milk, dark or white chocolate , you can add a touch of indulgence by topping this chia pudding recipe with your favorite type of chocolate chips or shavings.
• Jam – Add a burst of flavor with a spoonful of your favorite jam, or try my homemade sugar free strawberry jam or blackberry jelly .

More Healthy Meal Prep Breakfast Ideas

No time to prep breakfast? Make busy mornings easier with these make-ahead options:

Peanut Butter Overnight Oats

Homemade Granola

Instant Pot Egg Bites

Baked Oatmeal

Recommended Tools

• Meal Prep Mason Jars – Just the right portion size for this recipe, easy to clean, and they even come with spoons.

Ingredients

Tap underlined ingredients to see the ones I use.

Basic Chia Pudding:

• 3 tbsp Chia seeds ▢
• 1 cup Unsweetened almond milk (or coconut milk beverage for nut-free option) ▢
• 1/2 tbsp Maple Syrup (I used sugar-free maple syrup , but any kind will work; add more syrup to taste if needed) ▢
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract ▢

Chocolate:

• 1 tsp Dutch processed cocoa powder ▢
• 1 tbsp Sugar-free dark chocolate chips (or any kind you like; optional) ▢

Raspberry:

• 1/3 cup Raspberries (plus more for serving) ▢

Banana:

• 1/2 medium Banana (mashed; plus more sliced for serving) ▢

Matcha:

• 1 tsp Matcha powder ▢

Pumpkin:

• 1/4 cup Pumpkin puree ▢
• 1/2 tsp Pumpkin pie spice ▢

Instructions

Tap on the times in the instructions to start a kitchen timer.

1. In a small bowl or jar , stir together the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. If making a flavored version, add the extra ingredients as follows: * Chocolate: Stir in cocoa powder. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. (Do not add chocolate chips yet.) * Raspberry: Mash the raspberries in a small bowl, then stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. * Banana: Add the mashed banana and stir to combine. * Matcha: In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with 1 tablespoon of water. (This will prevent clumping later.) Stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. * Pumpkin: Stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Cover and place the chia pudding in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to set. (You can also do this overnight.)
4. Add or layer with toppings if desired. Topping recommendations based on flavor: * Plain chia pudding: Blueberries (or sliced strawberries) and sliced almonds * Chocolate: Chocolate chips and coconut flakes * Raspberry: Fresh raspberries * Banana: Banana slices and chocolate chips * Matcha: Blueberries or raspberries * Pumpkin: Whipped cream and cinnamon

LAST STEP: Leave a rating to help other readers, or tag me @wholesomeyum on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you!

Maya’s Recipe Notes

Serving size: Entire recipe, about 1 to 1 1/2 cups

Nutrition info does not include optional flavors.

📖 Want more recipes like this? Find this one and many more in my Healthy Ebook Bundle and Keto Ebook Bundle !

I provide nutrition facts as a courtesy. Have questions about calculations or why you got a different result? Please see my nutrition policy .

Add Your NotesYour Notes

© Copyright Maya Krampf for Wholesome Yum. Please DO NOT SCREENSHOT OR COPY/PASTE recipes to social media or websites. We’d LOVE for you to share a link with photo instead.

Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

Free Printable: Low Carb & Keto Food List

• Want The Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF System?
• The Basic Keto Meal Formula
• Understanding Macros
• Keto Food Swaps
• Keto Food List
• Electrolyte Basics
• Keto Diet Types
• Want The Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF System?
• Recipe Reviews

Even though I have a great guide to starting a keto diet , people often ask me for a quick keto cheat sheet they can use. That’s why I created this simple keto diet cheat sheet , so that you can have all the info you need handy. We’ll cover the basic keto formula for building meals, foods to eat and to avoid, delicious keto swaps for high-carb foods, electrolyte basics, and 4 ways to follow the keto lifestyle.

You can keep reading to view this info, or download my keto cheat sheet printable pdf to print out or save ad-free on any device (plus the pdf has more details!).

Want The Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF System?

Get all this information and MORE in convenient printer-friendly format – 13 cheat sheet pages you can take with you anywhere or keep in your kitchen, plus 4 recipe cookbooks! Includes:

1. Keto food list (230+ foods) – Super detailed & color-coded, with net carb counts, so you’ll know exactly what to eat.
2. Foods to avoid on keto – Detailed and specific list so that you know exactly what to watch out for.
3. Macros cheat sheet – Explains everything you need to know about macros to succeed on keto.
4. Keto food swaps (60+ foods) – Covers virtually every food you love, so you don’t have to miss out!
5. Keto meal formula – With specific food ideas, so it’s easy to mix-and-match.
6. Keto flu guide – Understand what it is and exactly how to avoid it.
7. Electrolyte cheat sheet – With whole food ideas + bonus keto tips.
8. Keto Diet Types – Summary of 4 ways to do keto, so you can choose what fits you best.
9. FOUR (4!) Keto Swaps Recipe EBooks – Dozens of recipes to replace bread, rice, potatoes, pasta, desserts, and other carbs you’d otherwise miss.

Get The Printable Keto Cheat Sheet System + EBooks (Only $37)

The Basic Keto Meal Formula

Eating keto doesn’t have to be complicated! While there are plenty of delicious easy keto recipes to choose from, you don’t even have to cook from a recipe to get started.

Simply follow the keto cheat sheet formula of protein + veggie + fat for your meals.

Be sure to choose a moderate amount of protein, only low carb vegetables (mostly ones that grow above ground), and generous fat to attain an optimal macro ratio. That’s approximately 60-75% of calories from fat, 20-25% protein, and 5-10% from carbohydrates. The table below will give you ideas for what to choose.

Understanding Macros

Macros are macronutrients for short. They include fat, protein, and carbohydrates.

You can calculate your own macros using the macro calculator , but the macro keto cheat sheet below will explain how to look at macros when following a keto lifestyle.

Carbs Are A Limit.

Keeping carbs low is what gets you into ketosis and keeps you there. Ketosis means that you’re using fat as your primary energy source instead of sugar, and requires keeping carbs very low.

A good starting point is 20-25 grams net carbs per day, but you can experiment after a few weeks to see if your body stays in ketosis at higher levels. People who are very active may be able to do more and stay in ketosis, up to around 50 grams per day.

“Carbs are a limit” means that you set a limit for how many carbs to eat per day and don’t exceed it. You don’t have to hit that limit, so if you’re under that’s okay, just don’t go over. Ideally most of your carbs would come from low carb vegetables, and if you’re eating enough veggies, you’ll usually get close to the limit naturally.

A common misconception is that reaching ketosis requires a certain macro ratio, but it’s really only restricting your carb intake that gets you there [ * ]. In the absence of sufficient carbs to use as energy, the body will switch to using fat as fuel. This is called the metabolic state of ketosis.

Protein Is A Goal.

Protein is made up of amino acids, the building blocks of all our cells. It’s a crucial for keeping our muscles strong and for many cellular functions [ * ].

“Protein is a goal” means that you always want to eat enough protein to reach the goal each day, but not exceed it too much. You want enough for your needs, but excess protein can trigger gluconeogenesis, which is protein being converted to sugar [ * ] and can kick you out of ketosis.

Fat Is A Lever.

Fat is the primary macronutrient in a keto lifestyle, because being in ketosis means that fat is your primary fuel source. Fat as a fuel source will come from your food, and if you are losing weight, from your body.

A big advantage of a keto lifestyle is the high fat intake. It keeps you full and satisfied, making it easier to stick to, and using it as the primary fuel source makes it easier on your body to burn body fat, with a lower chance of breaking down your muscle (provided you get enough protein).

Aside from reaching your protein goal and limiting your carbs, the remainder of your calories on a keto diet comes from fat.

Don’t fear fat – it’s your main energy source on keto, and getting enough of it trains your body to use fat for fuel instead of sugar. That means that as long as you are not overdoing your overall calorie intake, you’ll efficiently burn your body fat for fuel as well.

“Fat is a lever” means that you can increase or decrease your fat intake depending on your goals and hunger levels. Increase it (along with exercise) to gain muscle, or decrease it to lose weight.

Keto Food Swaps

One of my favorite challenges is creating recipes, or just discovering, keto food swaps. These are delicious keto replacements for traditionally high-carb or high-sugar foods.

So, I created this keto diet cheat sheet with all the swaps in one place! I also have more keto food swaps in my Easy Keto Cookbook .

Keto Swaps For Breakfast

Keto Swaps For Bread

Keto Swaps For Meals & Side Dishes

Keto Swaps For Snacks & Sauces

Keto Swaps For Cooking & Baking

Keto Swaps For Drinks

If you’re looking specifically for keto alcohol options, browse the full keto alcohol guide .

Keto Food List

When looking for a keto cheat sheet printable, the most-requested information is a keto food list.

The great thing is that keto doesn’t have to feel restrictive. It’s incredibly satisfying and there’s such a wide variety of foods you can eat!

Foods To Eat On Keto

• Leafy greens – Such as spinach, chard, and lettuce.
• Above-ground veggies – Such as peppers, zucchini, and cauliflower.
• Full-fat cream & cheese – Such as heavy cream, sour cream, and full-fat hard cheeses.
• Natural meats – Such as beef, lamb, and pork.
• Berries – Such as raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries.
• Avocados
• Unsweetened nut milks – Such as almond milk and coconut milk.
• Almond flour and coconut flour
• Eggs
• Healthy fats – Such as coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil and butter.

Foods To Avoid On Keto

• White flour & sugar
• Rice & grains – Such as barley, wheat, and corn.
• Milk & yogurt – Such as fruit on the bottom yogurt, sweetened Greek yogurt, and all milk.
• Cereal
• Processed food – Such as granola bars, candy
• Most fruit – Such as apples, bananas, and grapes
• Hydrogenated fats – Such as vegetable oil, soybean oil, and margarine
• Sweetened beverages & condiments – Such as soda, ketchup, and sweet dressings
• Starchy veggies – Such as peas, carrots, and beets.
• Potatoes – Such as sweet potatoes and white potatoes.

That’s the short keto diet cheat sheet version of all the keto food categories, but I recommend downloading the full Keto Cheat Sheet System. It includes a super detailed printable keto food list with over 100 items, including 2 color-coded pages with net carb counts, along with 6 more pages of keto cheat sheets:

Get The Keto Cheat Sheet System PDF (Only $37)

Electrolyte Basics

Getting enough electrolytes is crucial for anyone, but especially so on a keto diet. The reason is that ketosis has a diuretic effect, which increases excretion of water and electrolytes, especially sodium [ * ]. This is often the cause of the keto flu.

For more details on electrolytes and avoiding keto flu, check out the full keto flu guide here .

The important thing to know about electrolytes is that replenishing them will keep keto flu away and keep your body functioning well. I always recommend an electrolyte drink and whole food sources of anything your body needs before resorting to supplements, so I made a list of what to eat to get each of the 3 major electrolytes – sodium, magnesium and potassium.

Here’s your keto diet cheat sheet for getting electrolytes from food:

Keto Diet Types

People follow a keto lifestyle for different reasons. Some do it just to lose weight, others are after better overall health, increased energy, and reduced inflammation.

Strictly speaking, the defining factor of a keto diet is the metabolic state of ketosis, which is achieved by restricting carbs. However, many people (myself included) also reduce or eliminate processed, inflammatory, or low-nutrient foods.

Below is your keto cheat sheet summary of the different ways that people follow keto. You choose what works best for your goals and lifestyle!

• Strict Keto – Up to 20-30g net carbs daily, count all calories and macros, and eat clean, unprocessed foods.
• Lazy Keto – Up to 20-30g net carbs daily, and track only net carbs OR eat keto foods without tracking.
• Dirty Keto – Up to 20-30g net carbs daily, with “if it fits your macros” approach including processed foods.
• Low Carb – Up to 50-100g net carbs daily, less strict.

For a more detailed listing of these different types of keto with pros and cons, grab the Easy Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF below!

Want The Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF System?

Get all this information and MORE in convenient printer-friendly format – 13 cheat sheet pages you can take with you anywhere or keep in your kitchen, plus 4 recipe cookbooks! Includes:

1. Keto food list (230+ foods) – Super detailed & color-coded, with net carb counts, so you’ll know exactly what to eat.
2. Foods to avoid on keto – Detailed and specific list so that you know exactly what to watch out for.
3. Macros cheat sheet – Explains everything you need to know about macros to succeed on keto.
4. Keto food swaps (60+ swaps) – Covers virtually every food you love, so you don’t have to miss out!
5. Keto meal formula – With specific food ideas, so it’s easy to mix-and-match.
6. Keto flu guide – Understand what it is and exactly how to avoid it.
7. Electrolyte cheat sheet – With whole food ideas + bonus keto tips.
8. Keto Diet Types – Summary of 4 ways to do keto, so you can choose what fits you best.
9. FOUR (4!) Keto Swaps Recipe EBooks – Dozens of recipes to replace bread, rice, potatoes, pasta, desserts, and other carbs you’d otherwise miss.

Get The Printable Keto Cheat Sheet System (75 pages, Only $37!)

Chia Seed Pudding

Overnight chia seed pudding is an easy, healthy make-ahead recipe – perfect for busy mornings. Enjoy plain or choose from 5 yummy flavors!

Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera for the full recipe, including tips, step-by-step photos, and storage, or to save it to your account. You can also find it at: https://www.wholesomeyum.com/chia-pudding/

Ingredients

Basic Chia Pudding:

• 3 tbsp Chia seeds
• 1 cup Unsweetened almond milk (or coconut milk beverage for nut-free option)
• 1/2 tbsp Maple Syrup (I used sugar-free maple syrup , but any kind will work; add more syrup to taste if needed)
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract

Chocolate:

• 1 tsp Dutch processed cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp Sugar-free dark chocolate chips (or any kind you like; optional)

Raspberry:

• 1/3 cup Raspberries (plus more for serving)

Banana:

• 1/2 medium Banana (mashed; plus more sliced for serving)

Matcha:

• 1 tsp Matcha powder

Pumpkin:

• 1/4 cup Pumpkin puree
• 1/2 tsp Pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

1. In a small bowl or jar , stir together the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. If making a flavored version, add the extra ingredients as follows: * Chocolate: Stir in cocoa powder. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. (Do not add chocolate chips yet.) * Raspberry: Mash the raspberries in a small bowl, then stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. * Banana: Add the mashed banana and stir to combine. * Matcha: In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with 1 tablespoon of water. (This will prevent clumping later.) Stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. * Pumpkin: Stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Cover and place the chia pudding in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to set. (You can also do this overnight.)
4. Add or layer with toppings if desired. Topping recommendations based on flavor: * Plain chia pudding: Blueberries (or sliced strawberries) and sliced almonds * Chocolate: Chocolate chips and coconut flakes * Raspberry: Fresh raspberries * Banana: Banana slices and chocolate chips * Matcha: Blueberries or raspberries * Pumpkin: Whipped cream and cinnamon

Maya’s Recipe Notes

Serving size: Entire recipe, about 1 to 1 1/2 cups

Nutrition info does not include optional flavors.

📖 Want more recipes like this? Find this one and many more in my Healthy Ebook Bundle and Keto Ebook Bundle !

I provide nutrition facts as a courtesy. Have questions about calculations or why you got a different result? Please see my nutrition policy .

© Copyright Maya Krampf for Wholesome Yum. Please DO NOT SCREENSHOT OR COPY/PASTE recipes to social media or websites. We’d LOVE for you to share a link with photo instead. :)

FREE 5-Ingredient Recipe EBook

• Why You’ll Love This Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
• Ingredients & Substitutions
• The Right Chia Pudding Ratio
• How To Make Chia Pudding
• Troubleshooting Tips
• Flavor Variations
• Storage Instructions
• Is Chia Pudding Healthy?
• Toppings For Chia Pudding Recipes
• More Healthy Meal Prep Breakfast Ideas
• Recommended Tools
• Chia Seed Pudding Recipe card
• Recipe Reviews

This overnight chia seed pudding recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s packed with nutrients and tastes amazing! It takes just a few minutes to whip up, making it the perfect make-ahead healthy breakfast , snack, or even dessert. I’ll show you how to make chia pudding the basic way and how to make a bunch of different flavors!

These seeds always seem to come in a large bag, so I often mix them into chia jam , crunchy coconut clusters , or even a detox smoothie . This is one of my favorite ways to get even more health benefits of chia seeds into my day!

Why You’ll Love This Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

• Simple plain version, with 5 sweet flavor variations
• Smooth, creamy consistency
• Simple ingredients
• Ready in less than 30 minutes (or make it overnight!)
• Naturally healthy, low carb, gluten-free, paleo, and vegan
• Easily double or quadruple the recipe for meal prep

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best ingredients for pudding with chia seeds, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card .

• Chia Seeds – The main ingredient! Any brand will work, but I like this brand . For best results, make sure your seeds are fresh, as older ones won’t gel as well.
• Almond Milk – I used store-bought almond milk for convenience, but you could easily make homemade almond milk instead. You can also use regular dairy milk, or non-dairy milks like coconut milk or oat milk for nut-free options.
• Maple Syrup – I like to use zero sugar maple syrup , but regular maple syrup or any liquid sweetener will work. Regular honey or zero sugar honey works great as well. (Use one of these sugar-free options for a keto chia pudding.)
• Vanilla Extract – Use high quality extracts for the best overnight chia pudding flavor. You can also use other flavor extracts.

These ingredients make the basic recipe for chia seed pudding, but see below for flavor variations and topping ideas!

The Right Chia Pudding Ratio

As a general rule of thumb, the ratio between chia seeds and liquid for making chia seed pudding is 3 tablespoons chia seeds + 1 cup milk of choice .

However, the optimal ratio depends on how thick you like it and any add-ins. If you add other dry ingredients, these will require extra milk to compensate. If you add other wet ingredients, you may need to reduce the milk.

How To Make Chia Pudding

This section shows how to make chia seed pudding, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card .

1. Mix the main ingredients. In a small bowl or meal prep jar , stir together the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir in any add-ins. If making a flavored version, add the remaining extra ingredients.
3. Let it set. Cover and place the chia pudding in the refrigerator, until thickened. Add toppings and enjoy!

VARIATION: Make smooth chia pudding.

This chia pudding recipe keeps the seeds whole. If you don’t like that texture and want it smooth, simply blend all the ingredients before placing in the fridge.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chia pudding didn’t thicken, don’t worry! Here are a few reasons this could be and how to fix it:

• You need to give it more time. The most common reason that chia seed pudding didn’t set is it just needs more time to thicken. There’s a reason it’s called overnight chia pudding! Wait another 30-60 minutes and see.
• Your chia seeds are old. Older chia seeds don’t gel as well, or may take longer to expand. In this case, adding an extra tablespoon of seeds and giving it more time can help.
• You just need to stir. Sometimes chia pudding recipes can look like they didn’t quite set on top, but are actually just perfect after you stir them.

Flavor Variations

Looking to jazz up your pudding? Here are some simple chia seed pudding variations that cater to every craving.

• Chocolate – Add 1 teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the basic overnight chia pudding recipe. Then, top chocolate chia pudding pudding with 1 tablespoon sugar-free dark chocolate chips (or any kind you like) and some coconut flakes.
• Raspberry – Mash 1/3 cup raspberries in a small bowl, then stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. Top with fresh raspberries.
• Banana – Add 1/2 of a medium mashed banana and stir to combine. Garnish chia pudding recipe with fresh banana slices and chocolate chips.
• Matcha – In a small bowl, whisk 1 teaspoon matcha powder with 1 tablespoon of water. (This will prevent clumping later.) Stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. Top with extra blueberries, raspberries, or your favorite fresh fruit.
• Pumpkin – Stir in 1/4 cup pumpkin puree and 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
• Chai – Stir in a combination of cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, ground ginger, and ground cloves for a chai flavored version.

Storage Instructions

Store chia pudding in jars in the fridge. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the chia seeds can sometimes settle at the bottom.

How Long Does Chia Pudding Last?

Chia seed pudding can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator, so it’s perfect for meal prep.

Can You Freeze Chia Pudding?

Yes, you can freeze chia pudding for up to 1 month. The texture may change slightly once it’s thawed, but is still quite good. Simply defrost in the fridge overnight.

Is Chia Pudding Healthy?

Yes, chia pudding can be a very healthy option. Chia seeds are highly nutritious and are a great source of fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and micronutrients, like magnesium and calcium.

Toppings For Chia Pudding Recipes

Take your pudding from simple to stunning with these tasty and nutritious topping ideas!

• Fruit – Consider adding fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to the basic chia pudding recipe.
• Yogurt – For a creamy and tangy twist, top overnight chia pudding with a dollop of plain or flavored coconut yogurt , and sprinkle with some granola or chopped nuts for added crunch.
• Nuts & Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, chia, flax, or pumpkin seeds can add nice texture.
• Chocolate Chips – Whether you prefer milk, dark or white chocolate , you can add a touch of indulgence by topping this chia pudding recipe with your favorite type of chocolate chips or shavings.
• Jam – Add a burst of flavor with a spoonful of your favorite jam, or try my homemade sugar free strawberry jam or blackberry jelly .

More Healthy Meal Prep Breakfast Ideas

No time to prep breakfast? Make busy mornings easier with these make-ahead options:

Peanut Butter Overnight Oats

Homemade Granola

Instant Pot Egg Bites

Baked Oatmeal

Recommended Tools

• Meal Prep Mason Jars – Just the right portion size for this recipe, easy to clean, and they even come with spoons.

Ingredients

Tap underlined ingredients to see the ones I use.

Basic Chia Pudding:

• 3 tbsp Chia seeds ▢
• 1 cup Unsweetened almond milk (or coconut milk beverage for nut-free option) ▢
• 1/2 tbsp Maple Syrup (I used sugar-free maple syrup , but any kind will work; add more syrup to taste if needed) ▢
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract ▢

Chocolate:

• 1 tsp Dutch processed cocoa powder ▢
• 1 tbsp Sugar-free dark chocolate chips (or any kind you like; optional) ▢

Raspberry:

• 1/3 cup Raspberries (plus more for serving) ▢

Banana:

• 1/2 medium Banana (mashed; plus more sliced for serving) ▢

Matcha:

• 1 tsp Matcha powder ▢

Pumpkin:

• 1/4 cup Pumpkin puree ▢
• 1/2 tsp Pumpkin pie spice ▢

Instructions

Tap on the times in the instructions to start a kitchen timer.

1. In a small bowl or jar , stir together the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. If making a flavored version, add the extra ingredients as follows: * Chocolate: Stir in cocoa powder. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. (Do not add chocolate chips yet.) * Raspberry: Mash the raspberries in a small bowl, then stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. * Banana: Add the mashed banana and stir to combine. * Matcha: In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with 1 tablespoon of water. (This will prevent clumping later.) Stir into the chia pudding mixture. If desired, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of maple syrup. * Pumpkin: Stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Cover and place the chia pudding in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to set. (You can also do this overnight.)
4. Add or layer with toppings if desired. Topping recommendations based on flavor: * Plain chia pudding: Blueberries (or sliced strawberries) and sliced almonds * Chocolate: Chocolate chips and coconut flakes * Raspberry: Fresh raspberries * Banana: Banana slices and chocolate chips * Matcha: Blueberries or raspberries * Pumpkin: Whipped cream and cinnamon

LAST STEP: Leave a rating to help other readers, or tag me @wholesomeyum on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you!

Maya’s Recipe Notes

Serving size: Entire recipe, about 1 to 1 1/2 cups

Nutrition info does not include optional flavors.

📖 Want more recipes like this? Find this one and many more in my Healthy Ebook Bundle and Keto Ebook Bundle !

I provide nutrition facts as a courtesy. Have questions about calculations or why you got a different result? Please see my nutrition policy .

Add Your NotesYour Notes

© Copyright Maya Krampf for Wholesome Yum. Please DO NOT SCREENSHOT OR COPY/PASTE recipes to social media or websites. We’d LOVE for you to share a link with photo instead.

Chia Seed Pudding Recipe