Name: Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any preferred milk); 1/2 cup chia seeds; 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt

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This Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon is the perfect balance of creamy, comforting, and nutritious. It's an ideal choice for breakfast or a light dessert. The combination of vanilla, cinnamon, and the smooth texture of chia pudding is simply irresistible.

Ingredients

2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any preferred milk)

½ cup chia seeds

1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

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

Directions

In a medium bowl, I whisk together the almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

I cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken into that wonderful pudding-like consistency.

Once ready, I give the pudding a good stir to mix everything together, then divide it into serving bowls.

I serve it chilled, and sometimes I top it with fresh fruit, nuts, or a little extra cinnamon for an added burst of flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours (chill time)

Variations

I love how customizable this recipe is. Here are some variations you can try:

Milk options: You can use any milk you prefer, like coconut milk, oat milk, or regular dairy milk. Each will add a slightly different flavor and texture.

Sweeteners: While I use maple syrup or honey for sweetness, you can try using agave nectar, stevia, or coconut sugar if you're looking for alternatives.

Spices: If cinnamon isn't your thing, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice for a unique twist.

Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Fresh berries, granola, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of nut butter can all elevate the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

This chia pudding stores really well in the fridge. I recommend keeping it in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Just give it a stir before serving, as the chia seeds may settle or thicken further. Since this is served chilled, there's no need to reheat it—just enjoy it straight from the fridge!

FAQs

How long does chia pudding need to set?

I like to let my chia pudding set for at least 4 hours, but it works best overnight. The longer it sits, the thicker the pudding becomes.

Can I use other seeds besides chia?

Chia seeds are essential for this recipe because they absorb liquid and create a pudding-like texture. However, if you're looking for a similar result, you could try using flax seeds, though they might not thicken as much.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! Since I use almond milk and maple syrup, this chia pudding is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

Can I make chia pudding in advance?

Definitely! In fact, I recommend making it in advance. It’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast or dessert, and the flavors have time to meld together when refrigerated overnight.

Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Yes, you can easily add protein powder to this chia pudding. I’d suggest mixing in a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the almond milk before adding the other ingredients, ensuring it dissolves well.

Conclusion

This Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon is a quick and satisfying recipe that’s both nourishing and delicious. The creamy texture combined with the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon makes it perfect for breakfast or as a light dessert. It’s also versatile, easy to customize, and stores well for a few days. Whether I’m craving something sweet or looking for a healthy, nutrient-packed snack, this chia pudding is always a winner!

Recipe:

Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 4 hours (chill time)
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

This Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon is a creamy, comforting, and nutritious treat, perfect for breakfast or a light dessert. The smooth texture of chia pudding combined with the warm flavors of vanilla and cinnamon makes it irresistibly delicious.