This Banana Chia Pudding is a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s super easy to make! With just bananas, chia seeds, and milk, it’s friendly for both your taste buds and your tummy.
I love how it’s a fun, healthy treat that I can whip up in minutes. Plus, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy for breakfast or as a snack. Who doesn’t like a little pudding in their life? 🍌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are key for sweetness and creaminess. If you’re out of bananas, unsweetened applesauce can work in a pinch, though it changes the flavor slightly.
Chia Seeds: These little seeds are what thickens the pudding. If you don’t have them, you could use ground flaxseeds instead, but the texture will be different. Just make sure to increase the liquid by a little.
Milk: I usually use almond milk for a nutty flavor, but any milk works. You can substitute coconut milk for extra creaminess, or go for oat milk if you prefer something with a mild taste. Just be mindful of any allergies!
Sweeteners: Honey adds nice flavor, but if you’re vegan or prefer a different taste, maple syrup or agave syrup is a great alternative. You can also skip sweeteners altogether if your bananas are very ripe.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for Chia Pudding?
Getting the perfect texture often trips people up, but it’s all about the chia seeds! When you add them to your liquid mixture, they need time to absorb the liquid and swell. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix the chia seeds thoroughly into the liquid to avoid clumps.
- Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then whisk it again. This helps distribute the seeds evenly.
- Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Chia seeds need time to expand fully and create that pudding-like texture.
- If the pudding seems too thick, just mix in a splash more milk to adjust the consistency before serving.
By following these tips, you’ll have a wonderfully creamy pudding every time!
How to Make Banana Chia Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 2 ripe bananas (reserve some slices for topping)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, e.g., almond, oat, or coconut milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- A pinch of salt
For the Garnish:
- Sliced almonds (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious Banana Chia Pudding requires about 10 minutes of active preparation time. However, you’ll need to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to thicken properly. So, plan ahead for a delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Banana Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, start by mashing 1.5 ripe bananas until they are nice and smooth. This will be the sweet and fruity base of your pudding.
2. Mix in the Wet Ingredients:
Add the milk, optional vanilla extract, honey or maple syrup (if you want a sweeter pudding), and a pinch of salt to the mashed bananas. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Incorporate the Chia Seeds:
Now, pour in the chia seeds and whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the seeds don’t clump together.
4. Let It Sit:
After mixing, let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the chia seeds to absorb some liquid. Then, give it another good whisk to redistribute the seeds evenly.
5. Chill the Pudding:
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the chia seeds to swell and create that wonderful pudding texture.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, stir the pudding to make sure everything is mixed well. You can add in extra slices of banana at this point if you like a bit more banana flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the pudding into individual serving glasses or bowls. Top with the reserved banana slices and a sprinkle of sliced almonds for extra crunch. Serve chilled and enjoy this creamy, healthy treat!
This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying banana-flavored chia pudding with tasty bits of banana and a delightful crunch from the almonds, perfect for any time of day!
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Instead of Honey or Maple Syrup?
Absolutely! You can use agave syrup, stevia, or even coconut sugar to sweeten the pudding to your liking. Just adjust the amount based on how sweet you want it!
How Long Does This Pudding Last in the Fridge?
Your Banana Chia Pudding will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients for Extra Flavor?
Of course! Feel free to mix in add-ins like cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm spice flavor. Just keep in mind to adjust the liquid ingredients as necessary.
What If My Pudding Is Too Thick?
If your pudding turned out thicker than expected, simply mix in a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about finding that perfect creamy balance!