Easy Vanilla Chia Pudding

Posted on June 24, 2025.

Chia pudding topped with granola and berries

Craving something creamy, healthy, and incredibly easy to make? This vanilla chia pudding delivers all that and more in just five minutes.
This vanilla chia pudding is my go-to for busy mornings, healthy cravings, and meal prep wins. It’s creamy, simple, and never fails. Whether you’re new to chia seeds or you’ve been experimenting for a while, this version guarantees perfect texture, easy prep, and lots of flavor. With just a few ingredients and a quick stir, you’ll have a delicious, nutrient-rich breakfast ready and waiting. No fuss, no weird clumps, just smooth, satisfying pudding you can customize your way.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless and Quick: You only need five minutes to mix everything together.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to a week so breakfast is ready when you are.
Nutrient-Packed Superfood: Loaded with fiber, plant-based protein, and omega-3s.
Dietary Friendly: Naturally vegan, gluten-free, paleo, and low-carb.
Endlessly Customizable: Works with any milk, sweetener, or toppings you prefer.

“Chia seeds contain high amounts of fiber and omega‑3 fatty acids and are a plant‑based source of complete protein.”
Samantha Cassetty, MS, RD, New York–based nutrition and wellness expert

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Ingredients Needed For Vanilla Chia Pudding

Vanilla chia pudding ingredients on table

For the Base

½ cup chia seeds
2 cups plant-based milk such as almond, coconut, oat, or soy

For Sweetness and Flavor

1 tablespoon maple syrup, honey, or any sweetener you like
½ tablespoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for a richer flavor

For Toppings

Fresh berries, banana slices, or diced mango
Granola, chopped nuts, or toasted coconut flakes
Nut butter, yogurt, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor

How to Make Vanilla Chia Pudding

Step-by-step vanilla chia pudding preparation

In a mixing bowl or mason jar, combine the chia seeds, plant-based milk, sweetener, and vanilla. Stir thoroughly with a spoon or, if using a jar, secure the lid and shake well. The goal is to evenly distribute the seeds so they don’t clump.
Let the mixture rest for five minutes. After this short rest, stir again to break up any seeds sticking together. This second stir is key to avoiding lumps and getting that smooth, even texture.
Cover the bowl or jar and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least one to two hours, or preferably overnight. The pudding should thicken as it sits.
Check the consistency. If it’s too runny, add one more tablespoon of chia seeds, stir, and refrigerate for another thirty minutes. If it looks too thick, add a splash of milk and stir to loosen it up.
Once it reaches your desired texture, give it one final stir and enjoy. Store any leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to five to seven days.

Toppings and Customization Ideas

Fresh Fruit

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, banana slices, diced mango, or kiwi add natural sweetness and vibrant color.

Crunchy Toppings

Granola, toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or coconut flakes provide texture and crunch.

Creamy Add-ins

A spoonful of Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt, almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew cream makes it extra rich.

Flavor Boosters

A pinch of sea salt enhances the vanilla flavor. Add ground cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist.

Chia pudding with strawberry and mango topping

Popular Variations

High-Protein Vanilla Chia Pudding
Mix in one scoop of vanilla protein powder during the initial stir. To keep the texture smooth, add two to three extra tablespoons of milk to balance the thickness.

Chocolate Vanilla Chia Pudding
Stir in one to two tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder along with the other ingredients. This creates a rich, chocolatey version without needing extra sugar.

Zesty Lemon Vanilla Chia Pudding
Add fresh lemon zest and a teaspoon of lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with berries and coconut toppings.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator
Store your chia pudding in an airtight container or divide it into small mason jars for easy grab-and-go portions. It stays fresh for five to seven days. If it thickens too much, stir in a little milk before serving to bring back the creamy texture.

Freezer
Chia pudding also freezes well. Pour it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two or three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before eating.

Meal-prepped vanilla chia puddings with fruit

Troubleshooting and Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my chia pudding runny?

This usually happens when the ratio of liquid to chia seeds is off or the seeds are old and not absorbing properly. Fresh seeds should start thickening within an hour.

How do I fix lumpy chia pudding?

Lumps form when the mixture isn’t stirred enough after the first few minutes. Whisk vigorously to smooth things out. If needed, use a fork or blend it briefly.

What is the best ratio for chia pudding?

A solid base ratio is one cup of milk to a quarter cup of chia seeds. This gives a thick, spoonable texture. You can adjust it slightly depending on your preference.

Can I eat chia pudding warm?

Yes. Warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk while heating to loosen the texture and avoid overheating.

Anne Newgent

Vanilla Chia Pudding

This creamy vanilla chia pudding is a 5-minute, nutrient-packed breakfast perfect for meal prep. Customizable, naturally sweet, and always satisfying no clumps, just pure flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Total Time 2 5

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Plant-Based

Calories: 169

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Base

0.5 cup chia seeds
2 cups plant-based milk such as almond, coconut, oat, or soy

Sweetness and Flavor

1 tbsp maple syrup or any sweetener you like
0.5 tbsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for richer flavor

Toppings

to taste fresh berries, banana slices, or diced mango
to taste granola, chopped nuts, or toasted coconut flakes
to taste nut butter, yogurt, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor

Method

In a mixing bowl or mason jar, combine the chia seeds, plant-based milk, sweetener, and vanilla. Stir thoroughly with a spoon or shake well if using a jar.
Let the mixture rest for five minutes. Stir again to break up any clumps and ensure a smooth texture.
Cover and refrigerate for at least one to two hours, or preferably overnight. The pudding should thicken as it chills.
Check the consistency. If too runny, add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, stir, and refrigerate for 30 more minutes. If too thick, stir in a splash of milk.
Once the desired texture is reached, stir once more and enjoy with your favorite toppings. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5–7 days.

Notes

Mix in protein powder, cocoa, or lemon zest for tasty variations. Prep in jars for grab-and-go breakfasts. If freezing, thaw overnight before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

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➤ High-Protein Chia Pudding
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is chia pudding actually healthy?

Yes, chia pudding is packed with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, plant-based protein, and essential minerals. It supports digestion, satiety, and energy levels.

Is vanilla extract good in chia pudding?

Absolutely. Vanilla extract enhances the flavor and gives the pudding a warm, comforting taste. Vanilla bean paste works great too for a more intense flavor.

Is vanilla chia good for you?

Yes. Vanilla chia pudding combines the nutritional benefits of chia seeds with the calming flavor of vanilla. It’s a wholesome choice for breakfast or a snack.

How does Kim Kardashian make chia pudding?

Kim reportedly uses almond milk and adds a touch of vanilla for flavor. Her version is often topped with berries and enjoyed as part of a clean eating routine.

Can I eat chia pudding everyday?

Yes, it’s safe and healthy to eat daily as long as your body tolerates high-fiber foods well. Rotate toppings and flavors to keep it interesting.

What does Kim Kardashian eat everyday?

She focuses on clean, protein-rich meals with lots of vegetables. Chia pudding, salads, and lean proteins are often part of her regular diet.

Final Thoughts

This vanilla chia pudding recipe is your all-in-one solution for healthy, easy breakfasts. It’s creamy, customizable, and packed with nutrients that support energy and digestion. With just a few minutes of prep, you get a whole week of delicious, ready-to-go meals.

Tried it? Drop a comment and leave a star rating to let me know how it turned out. Share your creation on Pinterest or Facebook and tag me. I’d love to see your twist on it.

What flavor combo did you go with? Tell me your favorite variation below.

Anne Newgent

High-Protein Nutrition Specialist and Wellness Advocate with over a decade of experience.
My human-first approach blends science-backed guidance with real-life empathy, shaped by my own journey through fatigue and muscle loss. Today, I help people reclaim strength, energy, and confidence through high-protein nutrition that’s both practical and empowering.