Healthy Banana Chia Pudding (Vegan)

Looking for a delicious and nutritious treat that satisfies both your taste buds and cravings? Look no further than this Healthy Banana Chia Pudding. When combined with your favorite plant-based milk, chia seeds magically transform into a pudding with a tapioca-like texture.  

It's a perfect option for breakfast, snack time or a healthy dessert.

Chia Pudding Ingredients

This delicious breakfast or snack is made with 5 simple ingredients.

• Ripe bananas - Make sure the bananas are very ripe!  Brown spots are your friend in this dish.
• Plant-based milk - Use your favorite vegan milk in this recipe.  I love using oat milk but unsweetened almond milk works great too.  For added protein, soy milk is also a delicious option.
• Chia seeds
• Maple syrup
• Vanilla Extract

Options

Looking for some great options for toppings?  Use one of more of the following:

• Banana slices
• Walnut pieces
• Chocolate chips
• Coconut flakes
• Fresh fruit: blueberries, strawberries, raspberries
• Peanut butter or other nut butters (almond butter or cashew butter)
• Extra touch of maple syrup
• You can also stir in some cocoa powder to make it chocolatey.

How to Make Banana Chia Pudding

Peel the bananas and place in a medium bowl. Mash with a fork until there are no large pieces.

Add the non-dairy milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana and mix very well.

Stir in the chia seeds.  Many of them will be floating on top of the mixture but that's ok.  Divide the mixture as evenly as possible into 4 mason jars. 

Place the lids on top and shake well. Place in the fridge.

After about 20 minutes, stir mixture well to prevent clumping. Replace lid and put back in the fridge and refrigerate overnight.

The next day, stir well and serve with your favorite toppings if desired.  Not sure what to add?  Check out the list of options above.

Storage and Freezing

Store chia pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.  Can chia pudding be frozen?  Yes!  Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

When you're ready to eat the frozen chia pudding, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also thaw it at room temperature for a quicker thawing process. Once thawed, give it a good stir before serving to restore its texture.

Blended Option

I love the texture of the chia seeds in the pudding.  But if you'd like a smoother texture, you can put the pudding in a blender or food processor.  It just needs a few pulses to become a creamy pudding.

Chia Seed Benefits

Chia seeds really are a superfood!  There are many benefits to eating nutritious chia seeds including:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Chia seeds are packed with essential nutrients such as fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and antioxidants.
2. Heart Health: The high content of omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.
3. Digestive Health: Chia seeds are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which aids in digestion and supports a healthy gut.
4. Bone Health: Chia seeds contain essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are crucial for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
5. Hydration: When soaked in water or other liquids (in this case plant-based milk), chia seeds can retain a large amount of fluid, helping to keep the body hydrated.
6. Gluten-Free: Chia seeds are naturally gluten-free, making them a valuable addition to the diets of individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

FAQ

​Is chia pudding good for kids?

Yes!  This healthy breakfast, snack or dessert is full of protein and, more importantly, fiber, which kids are often not getting enough of.  

What is the best type of milk to use?

Use whatever is your favorite plant-based milk.  My favorites to use are oat, almond, and soy.

Do I have to use plant-based milk?

If you aren't vegan or don't avoid dairy, you can simply substitute cow's milk for the plant-based milk.

Can I use canned coconut milk?

​Using canned coconut milk would make this incredibly thick and also really high in fat.  I don't recommend using canned coconut milk.  But coconut milk (the beverage) that's found with other plant-based milks in the refrigerated section would be fine to use.

Summary

Whether you're seeking the perfect make-ahead breakfast, a guilt-free dessert, or a convenient on-the-go snack, banana chia pudding checks all the boxes.  The best part is that it's a great way to get your fiber while also enjoying a delicious treat that's full of banana flavor.  It's also a healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Looking for other vegan snacks?  Check out:

• Easy Vegan Jerky
• Easy Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Grape Nuts Muffins with Cranberries