This cherry vanilla chia seed pudding is a simple, nourishing dessert or snack that’s made with just a few mostly whole ingredients.
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I love pretty food.
And this cherry vanilla chia seed pudding is just so simple and elegant in terms of flavor and appearance.
Sure, chia seed pudding isn’t the prettiest on its own, but when layered with cherry compote and sprinkled with coconut flakes or slivered almonds, it becomes a snack or dessert worthy of a trendy coffee shop.
Let me show you how easy and nutritious this vanilla chia seed pudding recipe really is!
Yes, chia seed pudding can be a super nutritious snack or dessert option.
Chia seeds themselves are a nutrient-powerhouse. Specifically, chia seeds are a good source of:
As for the remaining ingredients, the oat or almond milk provide calcium and vitamin D (just make sure they’re fortified), and maple syrup contains small amounts of minerals such as potassium, zinc, and magnesium.
Plus, this vanilla chia seed pudding recipe is also gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, nut-free and vegan-friendly.
For the vanilla chia seed pudding:
For the simple cherry compote
Chia seed puddings are super easy to make. I personally find it’s easiest to make the pudding and compote the day before, let both sit in the fridge overnight, then assemble the next day.
Start by combining chia seeds, milk of choice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a small mixing bowl (I recommend using one with a lid). Whisk well to combine.
Once everything is well-whisked, simply cover the bowl or transfer the mixture to a sealable container. This chia seed pudding needs at least 6 hours to gel-up in the fridge.
For the compote, all you’ll do is place the cherries and maple syrup in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook until hot and bubbly, mash the cherries with a fork, then let the mixture thicken up in the fridge for an hour or so.
The next day, I like to divide the portions into small mason jars for an easy grab-and-go breakfast or snack option.
Don’t like the tapioca-like texture of chia seed pudding? No problem! Once the pudding has had time to thicken in the fridge, simply place it in a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
This cherry vanilla chia seed pudding is delicious enough on its own. However, if you want a little pop of texture or color, some topping ideas include:
Looking for more healthy chia seed pudding recipes? Here are three of my favorites:
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Great content! Super high-quality! Keep it up! 🙂
Thank you!
I’m Kelli MS, RD. As a foodie with a background in nutrition research, I’m a firm believer that what we eat affects nearly every aspect of our wellbeing, and that food should taste freaking delicious.
My name is Kelli McGrane, and I’m a Denver-based registered dietitian with a Master’s degree in nutrition.
As a foodie with a background in nutrition research, I’m a firm believer that what we eat affects nearly every aspect of our wellbeing, and that food should taste freaking delicious.
My goal with New Mind is to help you find balance in both your mind and body through nutrition research and whole foods-based recipes.