If you’ve been on the lookout for a dessert or snack that feels indulgent yet nourishing, this Cherry Chia Pudding Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine the smooth, creamy texture of soaked chia seeds mingling with the bright tartness of cherries, all gently sweetened and kissed with almond extract. It’s not only a feast for your taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrition that energizes without weighing you down. Whether starting your day or winding down, this recipe fits beautifully into any part of your routine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture in your pudding. Each one plays a vital role, from the natural sweetness to the creamy body and the vibrant color that makes every spoonful inviting.
- Frozen cherries: They bring a vibrant color and naturally tart taste that brightens the pudding wonderfully.
- Dairy-free milk: Choose your favorite plant milk to keep it creamy without dairy, adding mild flavor and smoothness.
- Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that blends delicately with the cherries for just the right touch of sweetness.
- Almond extract: Adds a subtle nuttiness that enhances the cherry flavor and creates depth.
- Whole chia seeds: These are the magic ingredient that create the pudding’s characteristic gel-like texture while boosting fiber and omega-3s.
How to Make Cherry Chia Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Base
Start by thawing the frozen cherries slightly so they release their juices without becoming mushy. Then, blend them with the dairy-free milk, maple syrup, and almond extract until smooth. This fruity base is what makes the pudding so flavorful and vibrant.
Step 2: Mix in the Chia Seeds
Stir the whole chia seeds into your cherry mixture thoroughly. The seeds will soak up the liquid and expand, transforming the mixture into a thick, creamy dessert that’s both fun to eat and incredibly satisfying.
Step 3: Let It Set
Cover your pudding mixture and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This resting time allows the chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and swell, giving you that signature pudding consistency you’re craving.
Step 4: Stir and Serve
Before serving, give your pudding a good stir to break up any clumps and to ensure a smooth, even texture. This simple step makes your Cherry Chia Pudding Recipe taste even better.
How to Serve Cherry Chia Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Top your pudding with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for crunch and texture contrast. A drizzle of additional maple syrup or a dusting of cinnamon can also elevate the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pudding pairs wonderfully with a light fruit salad or a crisp green smoothie, enhancing your meal with complementary textures and bursts of freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the pudding in layered glasses with granola or coconut flakes between layers. You can also freeze it into pops or mini parfaits, perfect for impressing guests or making snack time extra fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten Cherry Chia Pudding Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps it fresh, and the flavors even deepen over time.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions in sealed containers for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before enjoying to restore the pudding’s creamy texture.
Reheating
This pudding is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it slightly warmed, heat gently in a microwave-safe dish for 15-20 seconds. Stir before eating to maintain that delightful creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used when in season. Simply pit them and blend as directed. Frozen cherries are often preferred for convenience and because they create a nice chilled pudding texture straight from blending.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Cherry Chia Pudding Recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe yields two generous servings, perfect for a nutritious breakfast or a healthy dessert for two.
Can I substitute the almond extract?
If you’re allergic or prefer a different flavor, vanilla extract works beautifully as a mild alternative, adding warmth without overpowering the cherries.
What can I do if my pudding is too thick or too thin?
If it’s too thick, stir in a splash more dairy-free milk until you reach your ideal consistency. If too thin, add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds and allow it to set longer in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cherry Chia Pudding Recipe is like inviting a burst of fruity freshness and creamy texture into your kitchen that’s both delightful and nourishing. Whether you’re new to chia pudding or a longtime fan, this recipe brings a lovely twist that’s simple, delicious, and comforting. Go ahead and give it a whirl — I promise it will become one of your cherished go-to recipes in no time!
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Cherry Chia Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes (including soaking time)
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple and nutritious Cherry Chia Pudding that’s perfect for a wholesome breakfast or a healthy snack. This dairy-free, naturally sweetened pudding combines frozen cherries, almond extract, and maple syrup with chia seeds to create a creamy, fruity treat packed with fiber and antioxidants.
Ingredients
Fruit & Flavorings
- ½ cup (70 g) frozen cherries
- ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
Liquid & Seeds
- ½ cup (125 ml) dairy-free milk (such as almond or oat milk)
- 3 tablespoons (30 g) whole chia seeds
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl or jar, add the frozen cherries, dairy-free milk, maple syrup, almond extract, and whole chia seeds. Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed and not clumped together.
- Soak the Mixture: Cover the bowl or jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and swell, creating a thick, pudding-like texture.
- Stir and Serve: After soaking, give the pudding a good stir to break up any clumps. Divide into two servings and enjoy chilled. Optionally, top with fresh cherries or nuts for added texture.
Notes
- Use any dairy-free milk of your choice such as almond, coconut, or oat milk.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or agave nectar if preferred.
- For a smoother texture, blend the cherries before mixing.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Chia pudding thickens the longer it sits; if too thick, stir in a bit more milk before serving.
