Chia seeds are packed with nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, calcium, and antioxidants, just to name a few. These seeds aren’t ideal for snacking on, but they’re a great add-in for smoothies, oatmeal, and yogurt. Or you can take some simple ingredients and make this vanilla chia pudding. Load it up with fruit, nuts, and granola and you’ve got a pretty complete meal.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO MAKE CHIA VANILLA PUDDING

Chia Seeds: the texture of the chia seeds changes when soaked with liquid and creates a jelly-like consistency.
Plant Milk: to make the pudding creamy and activate the aforementioned texture change in the chia seeds.
Maple Syrup: to sweeten the pudding.
Vanilla Extract: for a richer flavor.

HOW TO MAKE VANILLA CHIA PUDDING

Mix the ingredients. In a bowl, mix the chia seeds, plant milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup.
Let it set. Cover the bowl and allow the pudding to set for at least 2 hours in the fridge.
Stir. To loosen the seeds that have settled to the bottom, stir or whisk until chunks are smoothed out.
Serve topped with granola, fruit, or any other toppings of your choice.

Swaps & Add-Ins

To make this pudding creamier, plant milk can be swapped for canned coconut milk or plant-based yogurt.
Don’t like maple syrup? Agave syrup, date syrup, or any other natural sweetener will work well too.
Want to add more protein? Stir in some protein powder and some additional plant milk.