Lemon Blueberry Chia Pudding
Awaken your taste buds with this vibrant and refreshing Lemon Blueberry Chia Pudding. This effortless make-ahead breakfast or snack combines the bright zest of lemon with the sweet tang of fresh blueberries, all nestled in a creamy, fiber-rich chia base. It's a delightful way to nourish your body with wholesome ingredients.
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
5 minutes active, plus minimum 1 hour chilling (ideally overnight)
Servings
1 serving
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- Effortlessly healthy and incredibly delicious
- Perfect for quick meal prep and grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks
- Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants
- Requires no cooking, just simple mixing and chilling
- Highly customizable with your preferred toppings and sweeteners
Ingredients
- 30 ml (2 tablespoons) chia seeds
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) almond milk (or your favorite milk)
- 60-80 grams (handful) fresh or frozen blueberries
- 5 ml (1 teaspoon) maple syrup (or substitute for your favorite sweetener)
- 3-4 drops lemon extract (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- In a bowl or jar, combine the chia seeds, almond milk, blueberries, maple syrup, and lemon extract.
- Stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated and no chia seeds are clumping at the bottom. This initial thorough stir is crucial for achieving a smooth and evenly gelled pudding.
- Cover the bowl or jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill overnight, or for a minimum of 1 hour, to allow the chia seeds to fully expand and create a thick, pudding-like consistency. For best results, chill overnight.
- Before serving, give the pudding another quick stir. If desired, garnish with extra fresh blueberries, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a drizzle of maple syrup for added flair and flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl or jar with a lid
- Spoon or whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cup
Essential Success Tips
- Stir thoroughly at the beginning: A good, vigorous initial stir prevents chia seeds from clumping and ensures they absorb liquid evenly, leading to a consistent pudding texture.
- Allow ample chilling time: While 1 hour is the minimum, overnight chilling allows the chia seeds to fully hydrate and results in the creamiest, most satisfying texture.
- Adjust sweetness and tartness to taste: After chilling, give the pudding a taste. Add a bit more maple syrup for sweetness or a tiny extra drop of lemon extract for more tang if desired.
- Use fresh ingredients: High-quality almond milk and plump, ripe blueberries will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your pudding.
- Experiment with milk types: While almond milk is recommended, feel free to use oat, soy, or light coconut milk for different flavor nuances and creaminess.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- For an ultra-smooth consistency, blend the chilled chia pudding in a high-speed blender for about 30 seconds. This breaks down the chia seeds, creating a mousse-like texture.
- Elevate the dish by layering the chia pudding with a homemade lemon curd or a quick blueberry compote for an impressive, restaurant-quality parfait.
- For an even thicker pudding, you can 'bloom' the chia seeds first: whisk the chia seeds with just half the milk, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then add the remaining milk and other ingredients, stirring well before chilling.
Notes
- Storage: This chia pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it ideal for weekly meal prep.
- Texture adjustment: If your pudding is too thick after chilling, simply stir in a tablespoon or two of extra almond milk until you reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, add half a teaspoon of chia seeds, stir well, and chill for another hour.
- Variations: Consider adding a pinch of vanilla extract, a tablespoon of unsweetened shredded coconut, or a scoop of your favorite protein powder for added flavor and nutritional boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of lemon extract?
Yes, you can substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice. However, lemon extract often provides a more concentrated lemon flavor without adding too much additional liquid, which can affect the pudding's consistency. Adjust to your personal taste preference.
What if my chia pudding doesn't thicken properly?
The most common reasons for a thin chia pudding are insufficient chilling time or not stirring thoroughly enough at the beginning. Ensure you've used the correct chia seed to liquid ratio and give it more time in the refrigerator. A good initial stir is key to prevent clumping and ensure even hydration.
Can I prepare this with frozen blueberries?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work wonderfully in this recipe. They will thaw as the pudding chills, releasing their delicious juices and infusing more blueberry flavor throughout the pudding.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: approximately 220, Protein: 6g, Fat: 11g, Carbs: 28g (including 10g fiber)
Allergy Information
Contains tree nuts (almond milk). This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Always check the labels of individual ingredients for specific dietary needs and allergen information.
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