Ingredients
- Chia Seeds: 1/4 cup
- Unsweetened Plant Milk (Almond or Oat): 1/2 cup
- Full-Fat Canned Coconut Milk (stirred): 1/4 cup
- Maple Syrup (or preferred sweetener): 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Lemon Zest (from 1 medium lemon): 1 teaspoon
- Alcohol-Free Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon
- Fresh or Frozen Raspberries: 1/2 cup, plus extra for topping
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together the plant milk, canned coconut milk, maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla powder until the mixture is fully combined and the sweetener is dissolved.
- Step 2: Add the chia seeds to the liquid mixture. Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes to ensure the seeds are evenly dispersed and do not clump at the bottom of the bowl.
- Step 3: Gently fold in 1/4 cup of the raspberries. Pour the mixture evenly into one large serving jar or two smaller individual jars.
- Step 4: Place the jars in the refrigerator. After 15 minutes, remove and give the pudding another quick stir to prevent the chia seeds from settling, then return to the fridge for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.
- Step 5: When ready to serve, top the creamy chia pudding with the remaining fresh raspberries and a drizzle of extra maple syrup or a tiny sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired.
Notes
- Store sealed jars of the finished pudding in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; the texture may soften slightly the longer it sits, but the flavor remains bright.
- Since this is a chilled dessert, if the pudding becomes too stiff after a long refrigeration period, stir in a splash of plant milk 10 minutes before serving to restore the desired creamy consistency.
- Elevate the texture and flavor contrast by adding a crunchy element just before serving, such as chopped pistachios, toasted shredded coconut flakes, or a few crumbled vanilla wafers.
- The secret to achieving a smooth, clump-free texture is performing the recommended second quick stir exactly 15 minutes after initial refrigeration, ensuring the seeds remain suspended while setting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American