3-Ingredient Oat milk chia pudding is perfect whether you're vegan, following a dairy-free or gluten-free diet, or simply looking for a perfect healthy breakfast or an easy meal prep option. Incorporating oat milk into your chia pudding recipe makes a creamy and wholesome pudding.
Breakfast or Dessert? You decide 🤷♀️
The joy of waking up to a perfect, healthy start every day. (minus the chocolate). These chia seed puddings make the perfect meal prep for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
This recipe also makes the ideal seed pudding. Add chocolate chips (or small easter eggs) and transform them into a beautiful, easy dessert. I love serving this with my one-bowl fudgy mini eggs brownies on Easter day.
You might also like these breakfast ideas: SPICED OATMEAL WITH CINNAMON, KIWI PUREE, HEALTHY BLUEBERRY ON TOAST, OVERNIGHT WEETABIX CHEESECAKE OR QUICK BISCOFF OVERNIGHT OATS.
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❤️ Why you will love this recipe
- Creamy Texture using Oat Milk: The use of oat milk creates a velvety and creamy consistency.
- Nutrient-Packed Chia Seeds: Chia seeds, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, provide a nutrient-rich foundation, making this pudding a wholesome and nourishing breakfast option.
- Versatile Toppings: Chia pudding's versatility allows for various toppings, from fresh fruits to nuts and chocolate chips.
- Convenient Meal Prep: The simple preparation and the option for overnight chilling make this recipe a convenient choice for meal prep. Enjoy a perfect, healthy breakfast without the hassle, whether preparing it the night before or making a batch for the week.
Recipe Testing
I developed this recipe because I was on the quest for the perfect Easter dessert that wouldn't send my kids into a sugar-induced orbit! 🚀
I dove into the kitchen armed with chia seeds, cocoa powder, and a determination to create a treat that would satisfy our sweet cravings without the sugar crash. The result? A velvety, chocolatey pudding that's also good enough for breakfast.
The best part? My kids had no idea they were diving into a bowl of goodness packed with omega-3s and antioxidants. Mission accomplished!
What are chia seeds?
Chia seeds are tiny little black seeds packed with nutrients that take center stage in this delicious recipe.
They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.
When liquid is added to chia seeds, the seeds swell and give this milk chia pudding the most amazing, gooey texture.
What are the benefits of chia seeds?
- Rich in Nutrients: Chia seeds are a nutrient-dense food, containing a good balance of macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) and an array of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.
- High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Chia seeds are an excellent plant-based source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3s are essential for heart health and brain function and reduce inflammation in the body.
- Loaded with Fiber: One of the outstanding features of chia seeds is their high fiber content. The soluble fiber in chia seeds absorbs water, forming a gel-like substance. This gel can help with digestion, promoting a feeling of fullness and potentially aiding in weight management.
- Antioxidant Properties: Chia seeds contain antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Antioxidants are crucial in supporting overall health and may contribute to disease prevention.
Ingredients and substitutions
Note: Please scroll to the full printable recipe card at the bottom for ingredient quantities and the method.
CHIA SEEDS: Black chia seeds
OAT MILK: You can substitute this for almond, soy, or regular milk.
MAPLE SYRUP: Or sweetener of choice, such as honey or agave syrup.
🍓 Variations and toppings of choice:
One of the beauties of chia pudding is its versatility. Experiment with different toppings to create a customized experience.
The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor your chia pudding to suit your taste preferences.
I doubled the recipe and added one teaspoon of cocoa powder to half of the chia seed pudding to make it chocolate-flavored.
Then, I layered these puddings with yogurt and chocolate chia seed pudding in between.
Some favorite toppings include:
- Fresh fruits,
- Berries,
- Nuts,
- Chocolate chips,
- Your favorite nut butter.
- Yogurt
How to make chia pudding with oat milk
- Add chia seeds, milk, and maple syrup in a mason jar or small bowl. Stir Well. Cover and place in the fridge for a couple of hours. Overnight refrigeration is best.
- When you are ready to serve your oat milk chia puddings, add your favorite toppings and enjoy.
- Note* I doubled the recipe and added one teaspoon of cocoa powder to half of the chia seed pudding to make it chocolate-flavored. Then, I layered these puddings with yogurt and chocolate chia seed pudding and added the toppings. 🤎
Tips and Tricks
- Thorough Mixing: Ensure thorough mixing of chia seeds, oat milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. This prevents clumping and guarantees an even distribution of flavors and textures.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with additional flavors, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or a hint of citrus zest, to add complexity to your chia pudding.
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preferences. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch at the beginning of the week for convenient and healthy breakfasts. Divide it into individual servings for grab-and-go options.
❓FAQS
Can I substitute chia seeds for flax seeds or hemp seeds?
I would not recommend it.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, add your desired amount of protein powder, and then add a tablespoon or two of extra oat milk or enough milk until you get the desired texture. Remember that protein powder will thicken the pudding.
How do I make this chocolate flavor?
Add one teaspoon of good-quality cocoa powder to the chia seed mixture and stir well.
Why won't my pudding thicken?
Your chia seeds might be close to the expiry date or expired.
Are chia seeds gluten-free?
Chia seeds are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet.
Can I freeze chia pudding?
I would not recommend freezing chia pudding. This will change the consistency of the pudding. Luckily, chia seed pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Make-ahead and storage
MAKE-AHEAD: Make a batch at the beginning of the week for convenient and healthy breakfasts. Divide it into individual servings for grab-and-go options.
STORAGE: Store in an airtight container for up to four days.
Did you make this recipe? Let me know what you think by leaving a ★★★★★ star rating & comment below. It genuinely helps me & I really appreciate your support! Nikki 💚
PrintOat Milk Chia Pudding
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
3-Ingredient Oat milk chia pudding is perfect whether you're vegan, following a dairy-free or gluten-free diet, or simply looking for a perfect healthy breakfast or an easy meal prep option. Incorporating oat milk into your chia pudding recipe making a creamy and wholesome pudding.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ½ cup oat milk
- 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup (or sweetener of choice )
Instructions
- In a mason jar or small bowl, add the chia seeds, milk, and maple syrup. Stir Well. Cover and place in the fridge for a couple of hours. Overnight refrigeration is best.
- When you are ready to serve your oat milk chia puddings, add your favorite toppings and enjoy.
- Note* I doubled the recipe and added one teaspoon of cocoa powder to half of the chia seed pudding to make it chocolate-flavored. Then, I layered these puddings with yogurt and chocolate chia seed pudding and added the toppings. 🤎
Notes
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch at the beginning of the week for convenient and healthy breakfasts. Divide it into individual servings for grab-and-go options.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Nikki says
Let me know if you have any questions. Nikki