Cherry Chia Pudding: A Delightful Healthy Indulgence
Imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of sweet cherries mingling with the rich scent of vanilla, filling your kitchen with warmth and comfort. As you take a spoonful of creamy, luscious chia pudding, you’re met with the delightful pop of vibrant cherries and the subtle crunch of chia seeds, creating a symphony of flavor and texture that dances on your palate. Cherry Chia Pudding isn’t just a breakfast or dessert—it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary morning into a cozy ritual or adds joy to a bustling family gathering.
This recipe is perfect for those cozy mornings when you want something nutritious yet indulgent, or for family brunches that require a healthy treat which can be made ahead of time. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick meal solutions or a parent seeking nutritious snacks for your kids, Cherry Chia Pudding fits the bill beautifully. Plus, it’s an eye-catching dish that impresses guests with minimal effort!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
(Nutrition data sourced from the USDA FoodData Central)
Why Make This Recipe
Cherry Chia Pudding is an irresistible blend of taste and health. The creamy texture and sweet, tart flavor make it a refreshing choice, while the chia seeds provide fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids that can kickstart your day or serve as a satisfying snack. Its make-ahead nature means you can relish in the joy of life’s simplest pleasures without the fuss on busy mornings or gatherings.
How to Make Cherry Chia Pudding
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond or coconut)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, chia seeds, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped cherries, allowing their juices to blend with the pudding mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until the pudding thickens and the chia seeds expand.
- Once thickened, give the pudding a good stir to combine. Serve immediately or portion into jars for an easy grab-and-go snack or breakfast.
Baking or Cooking Tips:
- Avoid overmixing as it can break down the chia seeds and create a less pleasant texture.
- For a great flavor boost, try using halved cherries or a dash of almond extract along with the vanilla.
How to Serve
Cherry Chia Pudding is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it even further by serving it topped with additional fresh cherries, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of granola and nuts. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a bit more maple syrup or honey over the top. Pair it with a refreshing cup of herbal tea or a smooth coffee to make your meal even more special.
How to Store
Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can also freeze the pudding for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Expert Tips
- For a unique twist, add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the base mixture before refrigerating.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the mixture before refrigerating, then stir in cherries afterward.
Delicious Variations
- Vegan Version: Use any plant-based milk and maple syrup to keep it vegan-friendly.
- Chocolate Cherry Chia Pudding: Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped nuts or seed butter to enhance flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes! Frozen cherries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to chop them before folding them into the mixture. -
What can I substitute for chia seeds?
You can try using flax seeds; however, the texture will be different. Flax seeds do not swell the same way as chia seeds do, so they may not yield the pudding-like consistency. -
Can I use sugar instead of maple syrup or honey?
Yes, you can substitute with granulated sugar, but it may require adjustments based on your taste preferences. -
How can I prevent my pudding from being too watery?
Make sure to refrigerate for the full recommended time to allow enough time for the chia seeds to absorb the liquid. -
What if my pudding is clumpy?
If the chia seeds have clumped together, simply whisk the mixture again before serving to redistribute the seeds.
Conclusion
Cherry Chia Pudding is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful way to nourish your body while savoring the sweet moments in life. Try it out, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and personal variations! Your cozy mornings and gatherings with friends and family will never be the same. Happy cooking!
Print
Cherry Chia Pudding
- Total Time: 120 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delightful and nutritious chia pudding featuring vibrant cherries, perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond or coconut)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, chia seeds, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped cherries, allowing their juices to blend with the pudding mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until the pudding thickens and the chia seeds expand.
- Once thickened, give the pudding a good stir to combine. Serve immediately or portion into jars for an easy grab-and-go snack or breakfast.
Notes
For a smoother texture, blend the mixture before refrigerating. Avoid overmixing to maintain texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
