Lemon Blueberry Chia Pudding is a refreshing and fun treat! It’s made with creamy coconut milk, zesty lemon, and sweet blueberries. Chia seeds make it nice and thick.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything together, let it sit in the fridge, and breakfast or dessert is ready. I love serving it with a sprinkle of berries on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are key for creating the pudding texture as they absorb liquid. If you’re not a fan of chia, you can use flax seeds, but be aware they have a different texture and taste.
Milk: Unsweetened almond milk adds a nice flavor with fewer calories. Any plant-based milk works well, like coconut or oat milk. You can also use regular milk if you prefer dairy.
Sweetener: Maple syrup is my choice for its rich flavor, but honey or agave syrup works too. You can skip the sweetener for a healthier option or use stevia if you want a zero-calorie choice.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess to the lemon layer. You can switch to coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option or use regular yogurt for a tart twist.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Creamy Chia Pudding?
To ensure your chia pudding is smooth and creamy, proper mixing and soaking are essential. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Combine all ingredients well so there are no clumps of chia seeds.
- Let it set in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. This waiting time allows the seeds to swell and soak up the liquid, giving you a delightful pudding texture.
- Stir after soaking to break up any clumps that may have formed.
Lemon Blueberry Chia Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any preferred milk)
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt (for lemon layer)
- 1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar or sweetener (optional, for lemon layer)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for lemon layer)
- Fresh mint leaves and edible flowers for garnish (optional)
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time. Remember to let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best pudding texture. So, plan for a total of around 4 hours and 15 minutes, or even longer if you choose to prepare it the night before!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, mix together the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir everything really well until it’s nicely mixed. The chia seeds should be evenly distributed to avoid clumping.
2. Add Blueberries:
Carefully add the fresh blueberries to the chia mixture. Gently stir them in to distribute them throughout the mixture without smashing them.
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl or jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This waiting is key, as it allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and transform the mixture into a delightful pudding consistency.
4. Prepare the Lemon Layer:
While the chia pudding is chilling, prepare the lemon topping. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, powdered sugar (if you’re using it), and a teaspoon of lemon juice until it’s smooth and creamy. This layer will add a refreshing zing!
5. Assemble the Pudding:
Once the chia pudding is ready, give it a good stir to break any clumps. Now, scoop or pour the lemon yogurt layer on top of the chia pudding in serving glasses or bowls. Be careful not to disturb the pudding layer too much!
6. Garnish for Presentation:
For a beautiful touch, garnish your pudding with a sprinkle of fresh blueberries, a slice of lemon, and some mint leaves. If you have edible flowers, add those for an extra special look!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Chill your completed pudding for a few more minutes, then it’s time to dig in! Enjoy this creamy and tangy dessert that’s as good for breakfast as it is for a sweet treat!
This recipe results in a luxurious chia pudding bursting with bright lemon flavor and sweet blueberries, layered beautifully for a healthy and delightful dessert you’ll love!
Can I Use Other Types of Milk?
Absolutely! While unsweetened almond milk is a great choice, you can substitute it with any preferred milk, such as coconut milk, oat milk, or regular dairy milk. Just choose what you enjoy best!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is mostly vegan already! Just ensure to use maple syrup instead of honey and opt for a dairy-free yogurt for the lemon layer. It will still be delicious!
How Long Does the Pudding Last in the Fridge?
The chia pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a stir before serving again as it may thicken more when chilled.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
You can get creative with fruits! Try adding strawberries, raspberries, or even bananas to the mix or as a topping. Just be mindful of the flavors you choose to pair with lemon!