Lemon Vanilla Chia Pudding

Hi, I’m Sam from dishfoody.com, where wholesome ingredients meet vibrant flavors to brighten your meals. If you’re tired of overly sweet, heavy desserts or breakfasts, this Lemon Vanilla Chia Pudding offers a light, refreshing, and nutrient-packed start to your day or a guilt-free treat. Combining zesty lemon, fragrant vanilla, and the creamy texture of chia seeds soaked overnight, this pudding is easy to prepare and highly customizable.

Drawing on years of recipe expertise, I’ve developed a simple recipe that balances tartness, sweetness, and creaminess perfectly. Here’s everything you need: ingredients, preparation instructions, flavor variations, and storage tips.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Chia seeds absorb liquid overnight to create a creamy, pudding-like texture naturally
  • Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the flavor with vibrant citrus notes
  • Vanilla adds smooth, comforting undertone balancing tartness
  • Uses simple, natural ingredients
  • No cooking involved just mix and refrigerate overnight
  • Suitable for vegan, gluten-free, and paleo diets

Ingredients & Prep

  • 3 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust sweetness)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: fresh berries, toasted coconut, sliced almonds
Lemon Vanilla Chia Pudding

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a bowl or jar, whisk together almond milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla, maple syrup, and salt until well combined.
  2. Stir in chia seeds, ensuring no clumps form.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, allowing chia seeds to swell and thicken the mixture.
  4. Stir pudding once after 1 hour if possible to prevent settling.
  5. Before serving, stir again and top with fresh berries, coconut flakes, or nuts as desired.

Flavor Variations

  • Tropical: Add mango puree or pineapple chunks and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
  • Berry Twist: Blend in fresh or frozen berries and top with extra fruit.
  • Spiced: Add cinnamon or cardamom to the mix for warm spice notes.
VariationKey IngredientDietary TagFlavor Profile
TropicalMango, pineappleFreshSweet, exotic
Berry TwistMixed berriesAntioxidantBright, fruity
SpicedCinnamon, cardamomWarmAromatic, cozy

Storage Tips

Keep chia pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving and add extra milk if too thick.

FAQs

  • Can I use other milk? Yes, any plant-based or dairy milk works well.
  • Is this recipe vegan? Yes, with plant-based sweetener and milk.
  • Can I eat it warm? Traditionally served cold, but gently warming is possible.

Conclusion

Start your morning fresh with this creamy, zesty Lemon Vanilla Chia Pudding a perfect, healthy balance of flavor and nutrition that’s ready when you are. For more light and vibrant breakfast ideas, visit dishfoody.com and try our Apple Crumble Chia Pudding.

Print

Lemon Vanilla Chia Pudding

Bright and creamy Lemon Vanilla Chia Pudding made with chia seeds soaked in lemon juice, vanilla, and coconut milk for a refreshing and healthy breakfast or snack.

  • Author: ssam
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Total Time: 5 mins + chilling
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast, Snack
  • Method: No-Cook, Refrigerated
  • Cuisine: Healthy, Vegan

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Optional toppings: fresh berries, lemon zest, mint leaves

Instructions

  • 1. In a jar or bowl, mix chia seeds, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
  • 2. Whisk well to combine.
  • 3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  • 4. Before serving, stir pudding and add more liquid if needed.
  • 5. Top with fresh berries, lemon zest, and mint leaves if desired.

Notes

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for creamier texture.
  • Adjust sweetness and lemon juice to taste.
  • Great for make-ahead breakfasts or light desserts.
  • Gluten-free, vegan, and packed with fiber.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 30mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: chia pudding, lemon pudding, vanilla chia, healthy breakfast

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating