This Cherry Chia Pudding is a fun, healthy treat that’s super easy to whip up! It’s made with juicy cherries and tiny chia seeds that turn creamy when soaked.
I love how it feels like dessert but is packed with goodness! Plus, it’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Just mix, let it sit, and enjoy a sweet cherry explosion! 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh cherries are the star of this pudding. You can also use frozen cherries; just thaw them first and blend. If cherries aren’t available, berries like strawberries or raspberries work well, too!
Chia Seeds: The chia seeds give the pudding its unique texture. If you’re out of chia seeds, flax seeds can be a suitable substitute, but they won’t thicken as well.
Milk: Almond milk is my go-to for a light flavor, but any milk works, including coconut milk for a creamier option. Oat milk is another great choice for a thick and rich consistency.
Sweetener: Maple syrup lends a lovely flavor, but honey or agave syrup can be used instead. For a sugar-free option, try using stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
How Do You Get the Perfect Chia Pudding Texture?
Creating the perfect texture in your chia pudding is all about the soaking time and the right liquid ratio. Chia seeds absorb liquid and expand, forming a gel-like consistency.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
- After 5 minutes, stir again to break any clumps and suspend seeds evenly throughout.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the seeds to fully expand and create that pudding texture!
Enjoy experimenting with flavors and enjoy your healthy Cherry Chia Pudding!
Cherry Chia Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust for desired sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Time Estimation:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and a minimum of 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. For best results, you can let it sit overnight, making it perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or healthy snack the next day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cherry Puree:
Start by pitting the cherries. Place them in a blender or food processor, and blend until the cherries are smooth yet still slightly pulpy. This will give your pudding a delightful cherry flavor and texture!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cherry puree you just made with the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything well until it’s nicely combined.
3. Let It Sit:
After mixing, let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This helps the chia seeds to start absorbing some of the liquid. Give it another stir to prevent the seeds from clumping together.
4. Refrigerate:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This is where the magic happens as the chia seeds absorb the liquid and turn the mixture into a delicious pudding.
5. Finish and Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy, take the pudding out of the fridge and give it a good stir. Spoon the pudding into serving glasses or bowls, and top it off with whole fresh cherries for a beautiful presentation.
6. Enjoy!
Serve it chilled and enjoy your fresh, vibrant Cherry Chia Pudding! It’s nutritious, delicious, and perfect for any time of the day!
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well too; just make sure to thaw them first. You can blend them straight after thawing for a smooth consistency, just like fresh cherries.
How Long Can I Store the Cherry Chia Pudding?
You can store the Cherry Chia Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just give it a stir before serving as it may thicken more as it sits.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Yes, feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking! Start with a small amount of maple syrup or honey and taste the mixture before refrigerating. You can always add more if you prefer it sweeter.
What Kind of Milk Can I Use?
You can use any milk of your choice! Almond milk is a great option, but feel free to substitute with coconut milk, oat milk, or dairy milk depending on your preference and dietary needs.
