Red Berry Smooth Chia Seed Pudding

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Red Berry Chia Seed Pudding is everything you want in a healthy, indulgent treat. The chia seeds create a creamy texture when mixed with coconut milk, while the fresh or frozen berries provide a burst of vibrant flavor and antioxidants. The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, and the vanilla and lemon juice bring out the natural fruit flavors beautifully. Plus, it’s completely customizable with layers of vanilla chia pudding or a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and refreshing, and it’s ideal for meal prepping!

Ingredients

Red Berry Chia Seed Pudding:

• ¾ cup strawberries, fresh or frozen
• ¾ cup raspberries, fresh or frozen
• 6 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 cup coconut milk (or any milk of choice)
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (or any sweetener of choice; more or less to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

Layer Options:

• Vanilla Chia Pudding (to layer)
• Whipped Coconut Cream (to top)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Red Berry Chia Seed Pudding:

1. In a blender, combine the strawberries, raspberries, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, then transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl.
3. Stir in the chia seeds, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken into a pudding-like texture. Stir the mixture once or twice while it’s setting to prevent clumping.

For Layering (Optional):

1. If you want a layered effect, prepare vanilla chia pudding by simply mixing chia seeds, your choice of milk, vanilla extract, and sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or agave). Let it set in the fridge for 4 hours or overnight, just like the berry chia pudding.
2. To layer, simply alternate spoonfuls of the red berry chia pudding with the vanilla chia pudding in serving glasses or bowls.

For the Whipped Coconut Cream:

1. If using whipped coconut cream, simply scoop out the solidified coconut cream from a can of chilled coconut milk.
2. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the coconut cream until it becomes fluffy and light.
3. Spoon the whipped coconut cream on top of the pudding before serving.

To Serve:

1. Once the pudding has thickened, spoon it into bowls or glasses. Top with whipped coconut cream or additional layers if desired.
2. Garnish with extra fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup if you like.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 2-3 servings, depending on portion size. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a chilling time of at least 4 hours or overnight.

Variations

• Fruit variations: You can swap the red berries with other fruits like mango, blueberries, or even peaches for a tropical twist.
• Sweeteners: Instead of maple syrup, you can use agave, honey, or stevia to adjust the sweetness to your preference.
• Nut butter: For added richness, mix in a spoonful of almond or peanut butter to the chia pudding.
• Toppings: Feel free to add granola, nuts, seeds, or coconut flakes for extra crunch and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover chia pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding will keep well for meal prepping and can be enjoyed throughout the week. If the pudding thickens too much after refrigeration, simply stir in a little extra milk to loosen it up. The whipped coconut cream is best when freshly made but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

FAQs

Can I use other types of milk besides coconut milk?

Yes! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk of your choice in place of coconut milk. Just note that the flavor and creaminess might vary depending on the type of milk used.

Can I make this chia pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Just let the chia pudding set overnight in the fridge, and you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-eat breakfast or snack the next day.

Can I use frozen berries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen berries instead of fresh. Just be sure to blend them well with the other ingredients. Frozen berries may create a slightly thicker pudding, but it will still taste great.

How long do I need to let the chia seeds set?

For the best results, let the chia seeds set for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This gives the seeds enough time to absorb the liquid and thicken the pudding.

Can I add more sweetener to the pudding?

Definitely! Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more maple syrup, honey, or any sweetener you like. Start with the recommended amount and taste, then add more if needed.

How can I make the pudding thicker?

If you want a thicker pudding, simply add a few more tablespoons of chia seeds and let it set for a longer time. You can also use less milk to begin with if you prefer a denser texture.

Can I add protein powder to the chia pudding?

Yes! For a protein boost, you can mix in your favorite protein powder into the pudding mixture. Just be sure to blend it well so it fully incorporates.

Can I make this recipe without vanilla extract?

Yes, you can skip the vanilla extract, but it does add a lovely flavor. If you prefer a different flavor, you can try using almond extract or a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist.

Can I freeze the chia pudding?

While you can freeze chia pudding, it may change the texture slightly once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, consider doing so in individual servings for easy defrosting.

Can I use regular whipped cream instead of whipped coconut cream?

Yes, if you’re not dairy-free, you can substitute regular whipped cream for the coconut version. It’ll still provide that creamy topping, adding a rich texture to the pudding.

Conclusion

This Red Berry Smooth Chia Seed Pudding is a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack. The chia seeds provide a satisfying texture while the fresh berries bring a burst of flavor. Whether you choose to layer it with vanilla chia pudding or top it with whipped coconut cream, this pudding is versatile and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Easy to make, customizable, and packed with healthy ingredients, it’s the perfect way to indulge in a sweet yet wholesome treat!

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