Healthy Chia Pudding with Banana and Granola Recipe
This Fresh Chia Pudding Bowl is a nutritious and easy-to-make breakfast or snack option. Featuring creamy chia seeds soaked overnight in almond milk and sweetened with honey or maple syrup, it's topped with fresh banana slices, crunchy granola, and optional berries for a satisfying texture and flavor combination. Perfect for a healthy start to your day or a refreshing treat anytime.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Chia Pudding
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds (about 45 g)
- 1 cup almond milk (240 ml) or any milk of choice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (15 ml)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5 ml)
Toppings
- 1 medium ripe banana, sliced
- ¼ cup granola (30 g), preferably oat-based with cinnamon or nuts
- Fresh berries (optional, a handful)
Instructions
- Combine Chia Seeds and Milk: In a mixing bowl or mason jar, combine the chia seeds and almond milk. Whisk thoroughly to prevent clumping and ensure the seeds are evenly distributed.
- Add Sweetener and Flavoring: Stir in honey or maple syrup along with the vanilla extract. Mix well to blend the flavors evenly throughout the mixture.
- Refrigerate to Set: Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. After 30 minutes, stir or shake the mixture to break up any clumps that may have formed for a smooth pudding texture.
- Prepare Toppings: Slice the banana and measure out the granola just before serving. If using fresh berries, rinse them gently and pat dry.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the chilled chia pudding into a serving bowl. Top with banana slices, granola, and optional fresh berries. Drizzle with extra honey or maple syrup if desired for added sweetness.
- Storage Tips: Serve immediately to keep granola crunchy. If preparing in advance, store the chia pudding and banana slices separately to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Any type of milk such as cow's milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be used according to preference.
- Allow at least 4 hours of refrigeration to achieve the best pudding consistency; overnight is ideal.
- Adding a quick stir after 30 minutes prevents clumping and improves texture.
- Keep granola separate from the pudding if storing ahead to maintain crunchiness.
- Customize toppings with your favorite nuts, seeds, or fruits for variety.
