Creamy Vanilla Quinoa Pudding

Hi, I’m Sam from dishfoody.com, where wholesome ingredients are transformed into comforting and delicious recipes. If you’re tired of heavy, overly sweetened puddings or looking for a nutritious twist on dessert and breakfast classics, this Creamy Vanilla Quinoa Pudding offers a smooth, luscious texture with the added benefit of quinoa’s protein and fiber.

Perfect for breakfast, snack, or light dessert, this pudding takes just minutes to prepare and delivers maximum flavor with wholesome goodness. Here’s a complete guide with ingredient tips, step-by-step instructions, flavor variations, and storage advice.

Why This Recipe Works

• Quinoa offers a protein-packed, gluten-free base that’s naturally creamy
• Vanilla adds a delicate, comforting flavor that complements quinoa’s nuttiness
• Sweetened just right with natural sweeteners, keeping it wholesome
• Uses simple, affordable pantry staples
• Quick preparation with minimal ingredients
• Versatile as a breakfast dish or dessert

Ingredients & Prep

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh fruit, nuts, or shredded coconut for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a low simmer.
4. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until quinoa is tender and mixture is thick and creamy.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly; pudding will thicken further as it cools.
6. Serve warm or chilled, topped with fresh fruit, nuts, or shredded coconut as desired.

Flavor Variations

• Chocolate Quinoa Pudding: Stir in 2 tablespoons cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate during cooking.
• Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut and diced mango or pineapple as toppings.
• Spiced Variation: Increase cinnamon and add grated fresh ginger or cardamom for warmth.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving and add more milk if needed to loosen consistency.

FAQs

• Can I use instant quinoa? Yes, but adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly.
• Is this recipe vegan? Use plant-based milk and maple syrup for a fully vegan version.
• Can I prepare ahead? Absolutely, prepare and cool pudding in advance for convenience.

Conclusion

Enjoy a creamy, nutritious start to your day or a wholesome dessert with this easy Vanilla Quinoa Pudding recipe. Its smooth texture and natural sweetness make it a perfect healthy treat. For more nourishing recipes, visit dishfoody.com and try our Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze next!

Creamy Vanilla Quinoa Pudding

Print Recipe

Smooth and creamy vanilla quinoa pudding made with cooked quinoa, coconut milk, a touch of sweetener, and vanilla. A healthy, gluten-free dessert or breakfast treat packed with protein and fiber.

• Author: ssam
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert, Breakfast
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Healthy, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional toppings: fresh berries, chopped nuts, coconut flakes

Instructions

• 1. In a saucepan, combine quinoa, coconut milk, maple syrup, and salt.
• 2. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes until quinoa is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
• 3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
• 4. Let cool slightly; serve warm or chilled.
• 5. Top with fresh berries, nuts, or coconut flakes if desired.

Notes

• Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness.
• Use full-fat coconut milk for creamier texture.
• Adjust sweetness to taste.
• Great for make-ahead breakfasts or healthy snacks.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: quinoa pudding, vanilla pudding, healthy dessert, gluten-free breakfast