This Banana Nut Chia Pudding is a yummy treat packed with flavors. With ripe bananas, crunchy nuts, and soft chia seeds, it’s both tasty and healthy!
I find this pudding perfect for breakfast or a snack. Just soak the chia seeds, mix in some bananas, and sprinkle with nuts. It’s so simple and good you might want to make extra! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are packed with fiber and create a thick, creamy texture. If you’re allergic to chia or can’t find them, you can try flaxseeds, but they may give a slightly different texture.
Almond Milk: I love almond milk for its nutty flavor, but any milk (dairy or plant-based) works great. Coconut milk will add a richer taste if you prefer. Adjust the amount based on how thick you like your pudding!
Bananas: Ripe bananas are key for sweetness and flavor. If you don’t have bananas, pureed pumpkin or applesauce can be good alternatives. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if needed.
Maple Syrup: Maple syrup gives a lovely natural sweetness. Honey or agave syrup are great substitutes. You can even use stevia or another sweetener for fewer calories.
Nuts: Walnuts and pecans add a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, try using seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds. They also add healthy fats!
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Chia Pudding Texture?
The texture is what makes chia pudding special, and it’s all about the soaking time. Chia seeds absorb liquid and expand, creating that pudding-like consistency. Here’s how to ensure you get it just right:
- Mix ingredients thoroughly to prevent clumping; chia seeds can stick together.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, then stir again. This helps distribute the seeds evenly.
- For best results, let it chill overnight. This allows the seeds to fully absorb the liquid and achieve a smooth consistency.
Banana Nut Chia Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), chopped
- 1/4 cup granola
- Optional: additional maple syrup for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pudding takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You will need to let it sit for about 10 minutes, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight. So, plan to make this the night before for a quick breakfast or dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chia seeds, almond milk, mashed bananas, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir everything well until combined. This will create the base of your pudding.
2. Let It Sit:
Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. After that, give it another good stir to ensure the chia seeds don’t clump together. This step is crucial for getting that perfect pudding-like texture!
3. Chill the Pudding:
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the pudding.
4. Serve It Up:
Once your chia pudding is set, stir it again! Taste it first and feel free to add a bit more maple syrup if you like it sweeter. Now, layer your pudding into glasses or bowls. Start with a layer of pudding, then add a layer of chopped nuts, and finish with another layer of pudding.
5. Add the Toppings:
Top your delicious pudding with sliced bananas, a sprinkle of granola for crunch, and if you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of maple syrup. It adds a lovely touch of sweetness!
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your chilled Banana Nut Chia Pudding as a healthy breakfast or a tasty dessert. You’re going to love this nutritious treat!
Can I Use a Different Milk Alternative?
Absolutely! You can use any milk of your choice, such as coconut milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just keep in mind that each type might slightly change the flavor and consistency, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite!
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey or agave nectar are great substitutes. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, you can use a sugar-free syrup or even mashed dates blended into the mix. Just adjust the quantity to taste!
How Long Can I Store Chia Pudding?
This chia pudding stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. If it thickens too much, you can stir in a little more milk to loosen it before serving.
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in or top your chia pudding with other fruits like berries, mango, or peaches. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if you’re adding sweeter fruits to keep the flavor balanced.
