Description
This refreshing Lemon Chia Seed Pudding is a light and tangy make-ahead dessert or breakfast option that combines creamy milk with zesty lemon, naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey, and packed with nutritious chia seeds. Perfect for a healthy treat or snack, the pudding sets overnight to a luscious texture and can be topped with fresh berries and coconut flakes for extra flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups milk (unsweetened coconut, almond, oat, or dairy milk all work)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (zest the lemons before juicing)
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup chia seeds
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings
- Extra lemon zest curls
- Coconut flakes
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream or coconut yogurt
Instructions
- MIX THE BASE: In a medium mixing bowl or large jar with a lid, whisk together the milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- ADD CHIA SEEDS: Stir in the chia seeds thoroughly. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to ensure the seeds are evenly distributed and not clumping together.
- CHILL: Cover the bowl or jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. During this time, the chia seeds will absorb the liquid and create a thick, pudding-like consistency.
- STIR AND SERVE: Once the pudding is fully set, stir it well to distribute any settled chia seeds. Spoon into individual serving bowls or jars and add toppings such as lemon zest curls, coconut flakes, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream or coconut yogurt if desired.
Notes
- The pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option.
- Adjust the sweetness to taste by using more or less maple syrup or honey.
- For a vegan version, ensure to use plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Make sure to stir the chia seeds after the first 5 minutes of sitting to prevent clumping.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low in calories.
