Description

This Cherry Chia Pudding is a refreshing, healthy, and easy-to-make vegan and gluten-free dessert or breakfast option. Made with frozen cherries, dairy-free milk, maple syrup, almond extract, and nutrient-dense chia seeds, it offers a naturally sweet and creamy texture packed with antioxidants, fiber, and omega-3s. Perfect for prepping the night before, this pudding provides a convenient and tasty way to start your day or enjoy a guilt-free treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit Base

1/2 cup (70 g) frozen cherries

Liquid & Sweetener

1/2 cup (125 ml) dairy-free milk (such as almond, oat, or coconut milk)
2 teaspoons maple syrup, or to taste
1/8 teaspoon almond extract, or to taste

Thickening Agent

3 tablespoons (30 g) whole chia seeds

Instructions

Blend Ingredients: Add the frozen cherries, dairy-free milk, maple syrup, and almond extract into a blender. Blend until smooth to create a fruity and flavorful base. Using a small personal blender works best for making single servings efficiently.
Add Chia Seeds: Pour the blended cherry milk mixture into a jar or container, then stir in the whole chia seeds thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Initial Rest: Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. After this resting period, stir again to break up any clumps and help the chia seeds begin absorbing the liquid.
Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the container and refrigerate the pudding overnight. This time allows the chia seeds to fully hydrate and thicken the mixture, creating a pudding-like consistency. Some brands of chia seeds may thicken sooner, in which case a few hours might suffice.
Final Stir and Serve: Before eating, give the pudding one last stir. Taste and add additional maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter. Top with your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or coconut flakes if desired, then enjoy.

Notes

Use any preferred dairy-free milk, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, to tailor the flavor and creaminess to your liking.
Adjust maple syrup sweetness as desired; you can also substitute with agave nectar or honey if not strictly vegan.
The almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor but can be omitted or replaced with vanilla extract if preferred.
If chia pudding is too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of milk to loosen the consistency.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best freshness.
Adding toppings like sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or fresh cherries can enhance texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Method: Blending and Refrigeration
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 250 g)
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 40 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Fiber: 11 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: chia pudding, cherry pudding, vegan dessert, gluten free breakfast, healthy snack, dairy free pudding, overnight chia pudding