Apple Pie Chia Pudding

Apple Pie Chia pudding is a healthy breakfast, dessert, or snack loaded with fiber, omega 3, and high in protein. Not only is it super easy and quick to make, but it’s also customizable with any fruit of your choice! Take advantage of apple season and enjoy this healthy breakfast on repeat.

What are chia seeds?

Let's dive into the wonderful world of chia seeds. These little powerhouses of nutrition might be tiny, but they pack a punch.

Chia seeds are wonderful small edible seeds. They come in two varieties, black or white, and there’s not much difference between the two in terms of taste or nutrition. They are native to central and southern Mexico. 

These tiny oval-shaped seeds don't have a strong flavor of their own, which makes them culinary chameleons. They're like flavor sponges, soaking up whatever deliciousness surrounds them. That's why they're the star of the show in recipes like Apple Pie Chia Pudding!

What is Chia Seed Pudding?

Chia seed pudding is a creamy and nutritious dessert or breakfast dish made by combining chia seeds with a liquid, typically milk (dairy or non-dairy), along with flavorings and sweeteners of your choice. While these little seeds are digestible in their raw form, the magic of chia pudding happens when you add liquid and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours. The chia seeds absorb the liquid and transform into a thick, pudding-like consistency, turning your chia pudding into a heavenly treat. It's a texture and treat similar to tapioca or rice pudding but with way fewer carbs, more fiber, and protein.

Why You'll Love This Chia Pudding Recipe

It's so fast and easy! Total prep time is less than 10 minutes; cover the lidded container (bowl, jar) and place in the fridge for 2 to 3 hours until it sets. 

Variety. You don't have to stick with the flavors we suggest. You can change up this basic approach to make all kinds of flavor combinations. One of our favorites is this chocolate chia pudding. You can also try strawberries and cream, raspberries with lemon, bananas with a hint of vanilla extract for banana pudding, or peanut butter or your favorite nut butter with chocolate chips sprinkled on top.

Vegan. You can use any of the non-dairy milks to make this pudding. Coconut milk is a common favorite. Soy milk, cashew milk, or oat milk are all possibilities.

Ingredients for Apple Chia Pudding

• Extra large apple - your favorite will work 
• Plant-based milk - we used unsweetened almond milk; use your favorite
• Honey, maple syrup, or agave - for sweetness
• Cinnamon (of course)
• Chia seeds - the star of this recipe
• Pomegranate seeds - for a pop of color and additional nutrition
• Slivered Almonds - any nut or seed will work

How to Make the Apple Pie Chia Pudding 

Cut the apple in half and take out the core; no need to peel. In a high-speed blender or smoothie maker, add one of the apple halves, milk, sweetener, and cinnamon. Blend until smooth; you just made apple milk. YAY!

Now, it is time to stir in the chia seeds and mix well. This is an essential step.

Divide the mixture and pour into three containers.  Remember the other half of the apple? Dice it into small pieces, split it evenly by 3, and add it to the chia seeds mixture in the containers. See, those basic math skills that we learned in elementary school are still useful!  Cover and put in the fridge overnight or 2-3 hours. Before eating, sprinkle with almonds and pomegranate seeds.

How to Store Chia Pudding

Place your pudding in airtight containers in the fridge. I like to make individual servings in small mason jars or similar containers that are perfect for grabbing on the go.

How long will chia pudding last in the fridge?

Up to five days in sealed containers.

Can I freeze chia pudding?

Yes! Put it in the freezer in airtight containers for about one month.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take chia pudding to set?

It needs to be in the refrigerator for at least two hours. Overnight is preferred.

Why didn't my chia pudding set?

You may have old chia seeds. After purchase, chia should be used within six months or frozen. Another possibility is that the seeds were not stirred into the liquid thoroughly.

How to Meal Prep Chia Pudding

The wonderful thing about this quick and easy treat is that you can make it ahead of time. Make enough for the entire week in individual containers for your fridge. Grab it on the go whenever you need a good snack or quick breakfast. It's ready and waiting for you.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, and some studies show that they can improve heart health, reduce cholesterol levels, lower high blood pressure, and promote gut health. 

Chia seeds are like nature's treasure chest of nutrients. They're rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, and calcium. They come in at just about 140 calories per two tablespoons. Some studies suggest that chia seeds might help with endurance, sleep, cramp relief, satiety, healthy cholesterol levels, and stable blood sugar. Who would've thought these little seeds could do so much, right?

After learning about the benefits of chia seeds, I said to myself … “Self, why aren’t more people aware of chia seeds? Sounds like a wonder seed that we should all include in our daily diets”.

More Great Chia Recipes

• 5- Ingredient Chocolate Chia Pudding
• Flax and Chia Seed Keto Crackers
• Matcha Chia Pudding Breakfast
• Vegan Chia Seed Lemon Biscotti Recipe

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