Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon Recipe
If there’s a breakfast or snack that can make your heart (and your tastebuds) sing, it’s Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon. This dreamy, foolproof recipe is creamy yet light, naturally sweetened, and beautifully spiced with cinnamon for that cozy, comforting touch. Whether you’re a meal prep enthusiast or just looking for a wholesome treat, you’ll love every spoonful of this plant-based pudding—it’s easy, endlessly customizable, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All it takes to make Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon is a handful of pantry staples that come together to create magic! Each element plays a key role in the flavor, texture, and nourishing qualities of this pudding—let’s see what makes them shine.
- Unsweetened almond milk: The base of the pudding, it’s light, dairy-free, and allows the warm vanilla and cinnamon flavors to stand out. You can substitute with oat, coconut, or your favorite milk.
- Chia seeds: These tiny seeds work wonders, thickening the mixture as they soak and lending the pudding its signature tapioca-like texture loaded with omega-3s and fiber.
- Maple syrup: Naturally sweetens the pudding, adding richness without refined sugar; honey or agave work just as well if you prefer.
- Vanilla extract: Gives the pudding its dreamy, unmistakable vanilla aroma and rounds out the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a gentle spice, transforming a simple treat into something cozy and memorable.
- Pinch of salt: Just a touch makes all the other flavors pop and balances out the sweetness nicely.
How to Make Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl or a roomy jar, add your almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Give everything a good whisk to make sure the chia seeds are distributed evenly (this helps avoid clumps later on).
Step 2: Let It Sit Briefly
Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes. This quick rest lets the chia seeds begin absorbing the liquid, and you might notice the swirl of cinnamon and seeds starting to blend together.
Step 3: Whisk Again
After that short wait, whisk the mixture again. This second round is key—it breaks up any seeds that may have started clumping and ensures a super creamy texture once your Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon sets.
Step 4: Cover and Chill
Tightly cover the bowl or jar and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you’re prepping ahead. This is when the chia seeds really get to work, thickening everything into luscious pudding.
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Right before serving, give your pudding a good stir to smooth things out. Spoon into bowls or jars, and enjoy all on its own, or with your favorite toppings for extra flair.
How to Serve Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon
Garnishes
Dress up your Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon by adding fresh berries, banana slices, a handful of granola, or a dusting of extra cinnamon on top—these small touches add beautiful color and delicious texture to every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your pudding with a platter of seasonal fruit, toasted nuts, or even a slice of whole grain toast with nut butter for a nourishing and balanced breakfast (or snack!) that’s sure to keep you satisfied.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving for company or just want to treat yourself, try layering Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon in parfait glasses with layers of fruit or yogurt, or pour it into mini jars for adorable, portable portions perfect for busy mornings or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to five days when stored in an airtight container. This makes it a meal-prep superstar—just grab a jar any time you need a snack or quick breakfast!
Freezing
To freeze, portion your pudding into individual containers and stash them in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and give it a good stir before enjoying—just know that texture may be slightly less creamy, but still tasty.
Reheating
This pudding is meant to be enjoyed chilled, but if you’d like it slightly warmed, gently heat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds and stir well (it will loosen up a bit). Avoid overheating, as chia seeds can lose their pleasant texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?
Absolutely! You can swap maple syrup for honey, agave nectar, coconut nectar, or even a few drops of liquid stevia if you’re looking to cut down on sugars. Just adjust to taste and you’ll have a customized Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon.
Why didn’t my pudding thicken?
If your pudding is a little runny, chances are the chia seeds weren’t fully mixed in or the ratio was off. Make sure to whisk thoroughly (twice!) and use the right amount of seeds. Also, chilling overnight gives the best results for thick, creamy Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon.
Is it necessary to use almond milk?
Nope, you can use any milk you like! Oat milk, coconut milk, dairy milk, or even cashew milk all work. Each type Breakfast, Snack, Dessert.
Can I blend the pudding for a smoother texture?
Definitely! If you prefer a silky, mousse-like consistency, simply blend the pudding after it’s set in the fridge. This is especially nice if you want to use Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon as a dessert or fancy breakfast parfait.
Is this pudding suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s a wonderful, kid-friendly option thanks to its gentle sweetness and creamy texture. You can involve kids in measuring and whisking, and top theirs with fruit or chocolate chips to make Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon extra special.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—an easy, nourishing, and truly delightful recipe for Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon! I hope you give this a try, add your own favorite toppings, and let it become a staple in your kitchen. Happy spooning!
Print
Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Indulge in a delicious and nutritious Vanilla Chia Pudding with a hint of cinnamon. This vegan and gluten-free treat is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
Ingredients
Chia Pudding:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- ½ cup chia seeds
- 1½ tablespoons maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Sit and Whisk: Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened.
- Serve: Stir well before serving. Serve chilled, topped with fresh fruit, granola, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon if desired.
Notes
- You can adjust sweetness to taste or swap maple syrup for honey or agave.
- For a creamier texture, blend the pudding after it sets.
- This recipe also works well with oat milk or coconut milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
