Name: Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 1/4 cup milk; 1/3 cup Greek yogurt; 3 tablespoons pumpkin puree; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; Pinch of salt

Experience a delightful journey of flavors with our Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding — a dish that merges the comforting essence of pumpkin pie with the nutritious benefits of chia seeds. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a nourishing boost, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or a guilt-free dessert. The creamy texture from Greek yogurt combined with the earthiness of pumpkin puree creates a pudding that is both delectable and healthy. With minimal effort and a short prep time, this pudding is soon to become your favorite treat!

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, chia seeds contribute to a balanced meal, ensuring your body receives the essential nutrients it deserves. Moreover, this Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding stays true to a vegan diet and is naturally sweetened with maple syrup, allowing you to enjoy the seasonal flavors without any guilt. Perfect for those cozy autumn evenings, this pudding will leave you satisfied while keeping your health goals intact!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding

Nutritious Treat: Combining pumpkin, chia seeds, and Greek yogurt, this pudding is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can prepare this dessert in no time!
Serves Two: Perfect for couples or solo indulgence — a delightful serving just for you!
Customizable: Adjust sweetness and spices to match your preference for the perfect flavor.
Make-Ahead: Ideal for meal prep; just set it in the fridge and enjoy later.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the deliciousness of Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients: chia seeds, milk, Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. A mixing bowl or jar is vital for combining these ingredients, and a whisk will help ensure everything blends perfectly.

Consider using a mason jar for an easy meal prep or storage solution—plus, it’s great for serving. Additionally, it’s helpful to have measuring cups and spoons on hand to keep your portion sizes accurate. Most importantly, make sure you have enough time to allow the pudding to chill—at least two hours, though overnight is ideal.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons chia seeds
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk the Base Ingredients

Start by taking a mixing bowl or jar and whisk together the milk, Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This step is crucial as it creates a smooth and creamy base for your pudding. Ensure that all ingredients are well blended, contributing to a harmonious flavor profile in each spoonful.

Step 2: Incorporate the Chia Seeds

Once your mixture is perfectly smooth, it’s time to add in the chia seeds. Gently stir to ensure that the seeds are evenly distributed. This is essential, as chia seeds will expand and absorb liquid to create a thick, pudding-like consistency. Make sure you don’t have any clumps of chia seeds together, as this will make it less pleasant to eat.

Step 3: Let It Sit

After mixing in the chia seeds, allow the mixture to rest at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes. This brief pause enables the seeds to hydrate and swell slightly, which prevents clusters from forming. Stir once again to break up any potential clumps and make sure everything remains well mixed.

Step 4: Refrigerate

Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for a minimum of two hours, or for best results, overnight. The longer it sets, the thicker it will become, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together. When you’re ready to serve, give it another stir and adjust the sweetness if necessary.

Variations

Protein: Swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative, or add a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost.
Vegetables: Add some finely grated carrots or sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile and additional nutrients.
Spices: Experiment with nutmeg, cinnamon, or even a splash of vanilla extract for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

Ensure that chia seeds are fresh; otherwise, they may not gel properly.
To achieve a smoother pudding, blend the mixture rather than whisking by hand.

Serving Suggestions

Top your pudding with whipped coconut cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of luxury.
Add crunchy granola or nuts for added texture and health benefits.

Tips

For quick prep, mix the pudding the night before and let it chill overnight.
Use seasonal spices to enhance the flavor, ensuring the dish feels authentic to the pumpkin pie experience.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (set time only)
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 220 calories per serving
Protein: 8 grams
Sodium: 95 mg

FAQs

Can I use other types of milk?

Absolutely! Feel free to use almond, coconut, soy, or oat milk based on your preference or dietary restrictions.

How long can I store the pudding?

The pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it’s recommended to eat it fresh for the best taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, it’s a perfect choice for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Can I make it without Greek yogurt?

Yes! You can omit the Greek yogurt and replace it with an extra 1/3 cup of your chosen milk or substitute it with a dairy-free yogurt.

Conclusion

In summary, the Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding is a wonderful way to indulge in the flavors of fall while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. With its creamy texture, delightful sweetness, and nutritious ingredients, it’s the perfect addition to your breakfast rotation or a satisfying dessert. Don’t miss out on sharing your experiences with this recipe in the comments below! We would love to hear about your variations and favorite toppings. Enjoy and happy cooking!