Creamy Strawberry Chia Delight

This strawberry chia pudding has become my go-to breakfast for busy mornings when I need something healthy that tastes like dessert. The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy Greek yogurt creates a perfectly balanced texture that's both satisfying and nutritious.

I first created this recipe during strawberry season last year when I was overrun with berries from our local farm. My children now request it weekly, even helping to measure the chia seeds while I blend the strawberries.

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries: the star of the show providing natural sweetness and vibrant color
• Unsweetened vanilla almond milk: adds light flavor without extra calories use any milk you prefer
• Strawberry Greek yogurt: boosts protein and enhances the berry flavor choose a high quality brand with real strawberries
• Vanilla extract: amplifies the natural sweetness look for pure extract not artificial
• Chia seeds: create the magical pudding texture while providing omega 3s and fiber
• Pure maple syrup: adds just enough sweetness without refined sugar use the real thing not pancake syrup
• Optional almond butter: provides a nutty undertone and extra staying power

Step-by-Step Instructions

Blend the Base:

Add strawberries, milk, yogurt, vanilla, and optional almond butter to your blender. Process until completely smooth, about 30-45 seconds. The mixture should be vibrant pink with no visible strawberry pieces remaining.

Create the Pudding Mixture:

Transfer your blended strawberry mixture to a large bowl with plenty of room for stirring. Add chia seeds and whisk thoroughly for about 30 seconds until all seeds are fully incorporated. The mixture will be thin at this point, resembling a smoothie.

Taste and Sweeten:

Sample your mixture and add maple syrup to your desired sweetness level. I find 4-5 teaspoons perfect for ripe summer berries, but you might need more if your strawberries aren't at peak sweetness.

Initial Setting:

Let the mixture rest for 15 minutes at room temperature, then whisk again vigorously. This crucial step prevents clumping and ensures the chia seeds don't settle at the bottom.

Complete Setting:

Cover your bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight yields the best texture. The pudding will thicken substantially as the chia seeds absorb the liquid and create their gel-like consistency.

Pin it

The chia seeds are truly the magical ingredient here. I discovered their transformative power years ago and have been experimenting with them ever since. My grandmother would never have believed that these tiny seeds would turn into such a luxurious pudding overnight.

Make It Your Own

This basic recipe serves as a wonderful template for endless variations. Try using blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries for a different berry experience. You can also play with the flavors by adding a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or even some lemon zest to brighten the profile. For a tropical twist, substitute coconut milk for the almond milk and add some diced mango on top.

Pin it

Perfect Storage Tips

The pudding will continue to thicken over time, so if you find it too thick after a couple of days, simply stir in a splash of additional milk to reach your desired consistency. Store in airtight containers for maximum freshness, preferably in glass jars with tight-fitting lids. If making individual portions, mason jars work beautifully and make grab-and-go breakfasts effortless.

Nutritional Benefits

This pudding packs an impressive nutritional punch. Chia seeds are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making them a true superfood. Combined with the protein from Greek yogurt and the vitamins and antioxidants from fresh strawberries, this breakfast or snack supports sustained energy, healthy digestion, and overall wellness. Even with its sweet taste, it maintains a relatively low glycemic impact thanks to the fiber content slowing sugar absorption.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes! You can substitute almond milk with any milk of your choice, such as oat milk, soy milk, or regular dairy milk for varied flavors and textures.

→ How can I make the pudding sweeter?

Adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or using a sweeter variety of yogurt. You could also drizzle honey for an alternative natural sweetener.

→ Can I blend the chia seeds for a smoother consistency?

Absolutely! If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the chia seeds with the rest of the ingredients for a uniform consistency.

→ How long does it take to thicken?

The pudding typically takes about 4 hours to thicken in the refrigerator. For best results, let it sit overnight.

→ What are some topping ideas?

You can top the pudding with whipped cream, cacao nibs, chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or a dollop of almond butter for added texture and flavor.