Chia Pudding Is the High-Fiber, Make-Ahead Snack We’re Obsessed With—Here’s How to Make It

If you haven’t jumped on the chia pudding train yet, take this as your sign. These tiny seeds turn into the most deliciously creamy (and healthy!) pudding with just a few ingredients and a little time in the fridge. Whether you’re after a grab-and-go breakfast, a sweet but guilt-free dessert or a midday snack that actually keeps you full, chia pudding seriously delivers. Our readers couldn’t get enough of the chocolate version we shared a while back—so we’re back with a full guide on making craveable and healthy chia pudding. Plus, four new flavors that are just as good. Ready to meal prep your new favorite treat?

What is chia pudding?

Chia pudding is exactly what it sounds like: a pudding-like dish made by soaking chia seeds in liquid (usually some type of milk) until they thicken and become soft and gel-like. The texture is similar to tapioca or rice pudding, only it’s totally plant-based and packed with nutrients. And better yet, it’s endlessly customizable. You can make it fruity, chocolatey, nutty or spiced, and serve it any time of day.

Chia seeds are tiny black or white seeds from the Salvia hispanica plant. And if you didn’t know by now, they’re absolute nutritional powerhouses. Just two tablespoons have around 10g of fiber, 5g of protein and more omega-3s than most fish oil capsules. They also expand in liquid, which means they help keep you fuller for longer. Their neutral taste makes them the perfect canvas for whatever flavors you want to add.

Why chia pudding is great for weight loss

Chia pudding is low in calories but high in fiber, healthy fats and plant-based protein, which makes it super filling. The high fiber content slows digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. This means you’re less likely to reach for a sugary snack later on. It’s also portion-friendly, easy to meal prep and you control exactly what goes in it. No hidden sugars or additives here!

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A quick guide to making chia pudding

Making chia pudding is almost too easy. Here’s the basic formula:

Base ingredients:

• 2 Tbs. chia seeds
• ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat or coconut)
• 1–2 tsp. sweetener (maple syrup, honey or agave)
• Optional: ¼ tsp. vanilla extract or cinnamon for flavor

Step-by-step:

1. Mix all ingredients in a jar or small bowl.
2. Stir well, then let sit for five minutes and stir again to prevent clumping.
3. Cover and chill for at least two hours (if you’re hungry) or overnight. That’s it!

The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and transform into a thick, creamy pudding by morning.

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4 delicious and healthy chia pudding flavors

Ready to venture beyond chocolate?

1. Peanut butter banana

Like a spoonable PB&B sandwich, but way more nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbs. chia seeds
• ½ cup almond milk
• ½ banana, mashed
• 1 tsp. maple syrup
• 1 Tbs. natural peanut butter
• Pinch of cinnamon

2. Vanilla matcha

Creamy, slightly earthy and packed with antioxidants.

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbs. chia seeds
• ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 tsp. maple syrup
• ½ tsp. matcha powder
• ¼ tsp. vanilla extract

Pro tip: Whisk the matcha powder with a splash of warm water to form a paste, then mix with the rest of the ingredients.

3. Cinnamon apple pie

Tastes like dessert, but it’s totally breakfast-appropriate.

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbs. chia seeds
• ½ cup oat milk
• 2 Tbs. unsweetened applesauce
• ½ tsp. cinnamon
• ½ tsp. maple syrup
• Optional: diced apples and granola on top

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Pro tip: Top with fresh apples or granola before serving.

4. Strawberry cheesecake

This one’s creamy, fruity and just indulgent enough.

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbs. chia seeds
• ½ cup milk of choice
• 2 Tbs. Greek yogurt
• 2–3 mashed strawberries
• 1 tsp. honey or maple syrup
• Optional: crushed graham cracker topping

Storage tips and meal prep notes

Once mixed, chia pudding lasts up to five days in the fridge, enough for the whole week. Just keep it in airtight containers or jars. The longer it sits, the thicker it gets, so feel free to stir in a splash of milk before serving if needed. You can also batch the base and customize each jar with different mix-ins so your breakfasts don’t get boring.