Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding

Name: Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice); 1/4 cup chia seeds; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Balanced Kitchen

I absolutely love starting my day with this Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding. The combination of creamy chia seeds and vibrant strawberries creates a refreshing and nutritious breakfast option. It’s easy to prepare and can be made the night before, making it perfect for busy mornings. The sweetness from the strawberries pairs beautifully with the subtle nuttiness of the chia, ensuring a delightful way to fuel my day. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll have a new favorite breakfast in your rotation!

Created by

Elara Kensington

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:05:35.598Z

When I first tried making chia pudding, I was amazed by how simple and nutritious it turned out. The chia seeds expand when soaked, creating a pudding-like consistency that feels indulgent yet light. I found that using fresh strawberries not only adds a burst of flavor, but their natural sweetness reduces the need for added sugar. I recommend mashing some strawberries into the mixture for extra flavor.

To elevate this recipe, I experimented with layering it in jars to create a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for serving at brunch. Trust me; the layers of pudding and strawberries create a delightful treat that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and refreshing flavor with fresh strawberries
Nutritious and packed with omega-3 fatty acids
Perfect for make-ahead breakfasts or healthy snacks

Mastering the Chia Pudding Technique

Chia seeds are crucial in this recipe, acting as a natural thickening agent. When soaked in liquid, they expand and turn gelatinous, creating a creamy texture that resembles traditional pudding. It’s important to stir the mixture thoroughly after adding the chia seeds to prevent clumping. If you notice clumps after chilling, simply whisk it again to redistribute the seeds evenly. With the right technique, your pudding will be smooth and luscious.

Timing is essential for your chia pudding to achieve the desired consistency. Aim for at least 2 hours of chilling time, but for the best results, prepare it the night before. This not only allows the chia seeds to fully expand but also deepens the flavors. Just keep in mind, if you make it more than 48 hours in advance, it may begin to lose its freshness, and the strawberries can discolor.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

While strawberries shine in this pudding, feel free to experiment with other fruits. Ripe bananas, mangoes, or blueberries can be great substitutes or additions that add variety. If you love a bit of crunch, consider adding nuts or seeds on top when serving. Toasted almonds or pecans not only enhance the texture but also bring additional nutrients to your breakfast.

For those looking to enrich the flavors, consider infusing your almond milk. You can heat the milk gently with a cinnamon stick or even a splash of orange zest, then cool it before mixing. These subtle enhancements give your pudding a unique twist, transforming a simple dish into a gourmet experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding:

Ingredients

1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1/4 cup chia seeds
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Mix everything to create a delicious pudding!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your chia pudding:

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the almond milk, chia seeds, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until fully combined.

Add Strawberries

Fold in the diced strawberries, reserving some for topping later. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mix.

Chill

Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to expand and thicken the mixture.

Serve

Once set, give the pudding a good stir. Serve in jars or bowls, topped with the reserved strawberries and additional toppings if desired.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious breakfast!

Pro Tips

For a creamy texture, blend the mixture before chilling. You can also substitute other fruits like blueberries or bananas to switch up the flavor.

Storage Tips

Your Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To keep the strawberries fresh and vibrant, wait to add any toppings until just before serving. This minimizes spoilage and ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and freshness.

Consider using sealed jars for storage, which not only keep the pudding fresh but also make for an easy grab-and-go breakfast option. If you want to freeze the pudding, be aware that the texture may slightly change upon thawing, but it will still be delicious. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Dietary Adjustments

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup, which you’ve already listed as an option. If you need a nut-free version, opt for oat milk or rice milk instead of almond milk. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy this nutritious breakfast, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Additionally, if you're looking to reduce sugar intake, consider omitting the sweetener altogether, particularly if you are using very ripe strawberries. They provide plenty of natural sweetness that can stand on its own, allowing the fresh flavors to shine without added sugars.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the pudding.

→ How long can I store chia pudding?

You can store chia pudding in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey, this recipe is completely vegan.

→ Can I make this without milk?

Absolutely! You can use coconut water, fruit juice, or even yogurt as a substitute.