This creamy, nutrient-packed chia pudding parfait is the perfect balance of taste and health! Layered with fresh fruits, crunchy granola, and a touch of natural sweetness, it’s a satisfying breakfast, snack, or dessert. Easy to make, gluten-free, and loaded with fiber & omega-3s—your new favorite guilt-free treat! 🍓🥄
Yields: 2 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus at least 2 hours chilling time)
Ingredients:
For the Chia Seed Pudding:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond, oat, or coconut)
- 1 tablespoon sweetener (maple syrup, honey, agave, or sugar, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, but enhances flavor)
For the Parfait Layers (suggestions, feel free to customize!):
- Fruits: Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries), sliced banana, diced mango, kiwi, etc.
- Granola: Your favorite store-bought or homemade granola.
- Optional Toppings:
- Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- Seeds (sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds)
- Shredded coconut
- Nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter)
- A drizzle of extra sweetener
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder
- Yogurt (dairy or non-dairy)
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Two glasses or jars for the parfaits
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions with Pictures:
Step 1: Combine Chia Seeds and Milk
- In a mixing bowl, pour in the chia seeds.
- Pour in the milk of your choice.
Step 2: Add Sweetener, Vanilla, and Salt (Optional)
- Add the sweetener.
- Add the vanilla extract.
- Add a pinch of salt if using.
Step 3: Whisk Thoroughly
- Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined. Make sure there are no clumps of chia seeds.
Step 4: Let it Sit and Stir Again
- Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. This allows the chia seeds to start absorbing the liquid. You’ll notice it beginning to thicken slightly.
- Stir the mixture again thoroughly to break up any clumps that may have formed. This ensures a smooth and even consistency.
Step 5: Chill the Pudding
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and create a thick, pudding-like texture.
Step 6: Prepare Your Parfait Layers
- While the chia seed pudding is chilling, prepare your desired parfait layers. Wash and chop fruits, measure out granola, and gather any other toppings you want to use.
Step 7: Assemble the Parfaits
- Once the chia seed pudding is thick, you can start assembling your parfaits. Take your two glasses or jars.
- Start with a layer of chia seed pudding at the bottom of each glass.
- Add a layer of your chosen fruit.
- Sprinkle a layer of granola over the fruit.
- Continue layering with the remaining chia seed pudding, fruits, granola, and any other desired toppings. You can create as many layers as you like, depending on the size of your glasses.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once your parfaits are assembled, they are ready to be served and enjoyed!
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the chia seed pudding before chilling and add more sweetener if needed.
- Flavor Variations:
- Chocolate: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the chia seed mixture. You might need to add a little more liquid and sweetener.
- Coconut: Use coconut milk and add shredded coconut to the pudding or as a topping.
- Fruity: Blend some berries or other fruit into the milk before mixing with the chia seeds for a flavored pudding base.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the chia seed mixture.
- Make Ahead: The chia seed pudding can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble the parfaits just before serving to keep the granola crunchy.
- Layering Order: Get creative with your layering order! There are no strict rules.
- Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant-based milk and a vegan sweetener.
Enjoy your beautiful and healthy Chia Seed Pudding Parfaits!
