This Cherry Chia Pudding is a fun and healthy treat! With juicy cherries and tiny chia seeds, it’s packed with nutrients and has a lovely creamy texture. Yum!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just mix, chill, and enjoy! Plus, who wouldn’t want to eat something that looks like a yummy dessert but is actually good for you? 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are the star of the show! They create a lovely gel-like texture when soaked in liquid. If you don’t have chia seeds, you could try using flaxseeds, although they won’t have the same texture.
Milk: Dairy milk works great, but feel free to use any plant-based milk you prefer. Almond, coconut, or oat milk would all add their own unique flavor. Just choose unsweetened versions to control the sweetness!
Cherries: Fresh cherries add a burst of flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen cherries—just thaw and chop them. Alternatively, any berry like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries can be used for a different twist.
Sweetener: I like maple syrup for its rich flavor, but honey or agave syrup are great choices too. Adjust the amount to your taste; start with one tablespoon and add more if you like it sweeter!
How Do I Ensure My Chia Pudding Sets Perfectly?
Getting that perfect pudding-like consistency is key! Start by combining your chia seeds with liquid and whisking them briskly. The trick is letting them sit. Here’s how:
- Mix the chia seeds and liquid well to prevent clumps.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a thicker pudding.
- After chilling, give it a good stir to break up any clumps and adjust the consistency, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Enjoy your perfectly smooth cherry chia pudding! It’s delicious as a breakfast or snack anytime!
Cherry Chia Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based like almond, coconut, or oat milk)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped (plus extra whole cherries for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: shredded coconut or edible flowers for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cherry chia pudding takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Just mix everything together, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow it to thicken. It’s a great make-ahead snack or breakfast option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or a jar, combine the chia seeds, milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup (or honey), and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix everything together well. Make sure there are no clumps of chia seeds!
2. Add Cherries:
Next, gently fold in the chopped fresh cherries. This will add a burst of flavor and make your pudding extra fruity!
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl or jar and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can, so the chia seeds can absorb the liquid and turn your mix into a pudding consistency!
4. Stir and Serve:
Once your pudding is set, give it a good stir to ensure an even consistency. Then, spoon the yummy chia pudding into serving glasses or bowls.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top with whole cherries and, if you like, a sprinkle of shredded coconut or some pretty edible flowers to make your dish look beautiful. Serve chilled and enjoy your refreshing cherry chia pudding!
This recipe makes about 2 servings—a perfect treat for you and a friend!
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just make sure to thaw them and chop them into pieces before adding them to the pudding. They might release more liquid, so feel free to adjust the amount of milk slightly if needed.
How Long Does Cherry Chia Pudding Last in the Fridge?
Cherry chia pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as it might thicken further or separate slightly over time.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use plant-based milk, such as almond, coconut, or oat milk, and sweeten with maple syrup instead of honey. This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly!
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Chia Seeds?
If you can’t find chia seeds, you might substitute with ground flaxseeds, but keep in mind that the texture will be different. Flaxseeds won’t create the same gel-like consistency so you might need to adjust the liquid accordingly.