Vanilla Bean Chia Seed

Featured in: Sweet & Calm Treats

This creamy vanilla bean chia seed pudding combines nutrient-rich chia seeds with fragrant vanilla for a naturally sweet, smooth texture. Whisk almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla together, chill for a few hours until thickened, and enjoy with fresh berries or nuts on top. Perfect for a nourishing breakfast or a light dessert, this gluten-free, vegan-friendly dish offers a simple, wholesome option with optional flavor twists like cinnamon or cardamom.

Updated on Mon, 10 Nov 2025 13:08:00 GMT
Creamy vanilla bean chia seed pudding topped with fresh berries and almonds.  Save
Creamy vanilla bean chia seed pudding topped with fresh berries and almonds. | moonthyme.com

A creamy, naturally sweetened pudding featuring fragrant vanilla bean and nutrient-rich chia seeds, perfect for breakfast or a healthy dessert.

This pudding quickly became my go-to breakfast because of its simplicity and delightful texture.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk: or any plant-based milk
  • 1/2 cup chia seeds: nutrient-rich superfood
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: or honey if not vegan
  • 1 vanilla bean: split and seeds scraped or 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Fresh berries: optional topping
  • Sliced almonds or chopped nuts: optional topping
  • Coconut flakes: optional topping
  • Drizzle of extra maple syrup: optional topping

Instructions

Step 1:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla bean seeds or vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 2:
Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping.
Step 3:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until the pudding is thick and the chia seeds have gelled.
Step 4:
Stir the pudding well before serving.
Step 5:
Spoon into individual bowls or glasses and top with berries, nuts, coconut flakes, or your favorite toppings.
Save
| moonthyme.com

This recipe always brings my family together for a wholesome, healthy start to the day.

Required Tools

Mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, plastic wrap or airtight container are essential for preparation and storage.

Allergen Information

Contains nuts through almond milk and optional toppings. Can be made nut-free by substituting oat or soy milk. Gluten-free and dairy-free.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 210, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 27 g, Protein 5 g.

Delicious vanilla bean chia seed pudding served in elegant glasses for dessert.  Save
Delicious vanilla bean chia seed pudding served in elegant glasses for dessert. | moonthyme.com

This pudding is a refreshing treat that is both simple and satisfying to make.

Recipe FAQ

How do chia seeds thicken the pudding?

Chia seeds absorb liquid and expand, creating a gel-like texture that naturally thickens the mixture without cooking.

Can I use other plant-based milks?

Yes, oat, soy, or coconut milk work well and alter the flavor slightly according to your preference.

What is the best way to avoid clumps?

Whisk the mixture thoroughly before chilling, wait five minutes, then whisk again to ensure chia seeds are evenly dispersed.

How long should the pudding chill?

At least two hours in the refrigerator is ideal to develop the creamy, thick consistency.

What toppings complement this pudding?

Fresh berries, sliced almonds, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, and a drizzle of maple syrup add texture and extra flavor.

Is it possible to add extra flavors?

Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom can be mixed in to enhance the taste profile.

Vanilla Bean Chia Seed

A creamy blend of vanilla bean and chia seeds, naturally sweetened and ready after chilling.

Prep Time
10 min
0
Total Duration
10 min
Created by Lydia Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine International

Portions 4 Serving Size

Diet Info Plant-Based, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Base

01 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
02 1/2 cup chia seeds
03 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
04 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped

Optional Toppings

01 Fresh berries
02 Sliced almonds or chopped nuts
03 Coconut flakes
04 Drizzle of extra maple syrup

How to Make It

Step 01

Combine Ingredients: Whisk together the almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla bean seeds until fully combined.

Step 02

Rest Mixture: Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes, then whisk again to break up any clumps.

Step 03

Chill Pudding: Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight until thickened and gelled.

Step 04

Prepare to Serve: Stir well before serving to ensure even texture.

Step 05

Portion and Garnish: Spoon into individual dishes and top with fresh berries, nuts, coconut flakes, or additional maple syrup as desired.

Tools Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Plastic wrap or airtight container

Allergen Details

Review every ingredient for allergens and ask a medical professional when unsure.
  • Contains nuts (almond milk, optional toppings).
  • Use oat or soy milk to avoid nuts.
  • Gluten-free and dairy-free.

Nutrition Details (each serving)

These details are for reference only, and shouldn't replace healthcare advice.
  • Energy: 210
  • Fats: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Proteins: 5 g