Ayurvedic and Paleo Chia Pudding (2 Delicious Ways!)
Vanilla chia pudding with fruit, nuts, edible flowers and mango and blackberry puree
Chia pudding is not only delicious and easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients that support overall health. If you remember chia pets these seeds are the same thing! These tiny seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein.
I’ve been making this recipe for over a decade and to be honest don’t really use a recipe at this point. Chia pudding is highly customizable for any diet and it’s practically fool-proof.
The worst mistake I’ve made is not adding enough liquid to properly hydrate the seeds, so I just add some more!
I became a huge fan of chia pudding during my first Whole 30 in 2018. Chia pudding became my replacement snack for my typical yogurt. I love that it still offers protein and that you get additional fiber and omega-3s. Now, it’s a staple travel snack and it’s a favorite at the Ayurveda Retreats.
Why Eat More Chia Seeds?
Rich in Fiber – Just 2 tablespoons provide nearly 10 grams of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
Excellent Plant-Based Protein – Great for muscle recovery and keeping you full longer.
High in Omega-3s – Supports brain function, heart health, and reduces inflammation.
Loaded with Antioxidants – Helps fight free radicals and slow down aging.
A Natural Energy Booster – Provides steady energy without spikes in blood sugar.
Now, let’s get to the two best-ever chia pudding recipes—one classic, one blended silky smooth!
Classic Vanilla Almond Chia Pudding
This version is simple, creamy, and naturally sweet, making it perfect for any toppings you love! This method is preferred if I’m traveling and don’t have access to a Vitamix or Blendtec (or any high-speed blender)
Ingredients
3 tablespoons chia seeds
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup, honey, or preferred sweetener (optional)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
In a jar or bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
Stir in the chia seeds and mix well to prevent clumping.
Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to evenly distribute the seeds.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
When ready to serve, stir well and top with fresh berries, nuts, granola, or a drizzle of nut butter.
Why You’ll Love It
The Mermaid Bowl from Pure Love Juice in Tucson. “layers of acai mix, pitaya mix, and blue majik chia mix, topped with almond granola, pineapple, strawberries, blueberries, coconut flakes, bee pollen, roses, honey” I use this beautiful bowl as inspiration because I’m not spending $15 every time I want a chia bowl!
✔ Light, refreshing, and subtly sweet
✔ A great meal-prep breakfast
✔ Pairs well with any toppings
Silky Blended Chocolate Chia Pudding (Blender Method!)
This chocolate chia pudding is ultra-smooth and creamy thanks to blending it in a Vitamix or high-speed blender. It tastes like chocolate pudding but is packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats! Makes about 6 servings.
Ingredients
1/2 cup chia seeds
2 cups preferred milk, or water (or 1 can of coconut milk for extra creaminess, you may need to add additional water)
3 tablespoons raw cacao powder
Dates to your preferred sweetness— I typically add 2 for a subtle sweetness and nutrition but you can add more if it’s more of a dessert pudding.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cinnamon
A pinch of sea salt
2 teaspoons maca, Mush Power, or beet powder (optional- see more ideas below)
Instructions
If you have time, soak the chia seeds and the dates in the liquid. This will make your chia pudding smoother, creamier, and easier on your blender
Add all ingredients to a Vitamix or high-speed blender.
Blend on high for 30-60 seconds until smooth and creamy, scraping the sides as needed.
If you pre-soaked your chia seeds, you should have a creamy pudding. If not, it will still resemble pudding but pour into a jar or bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to thicken.
When ready to serve, top with fruit, cacao nibs, granola, or other preferred toppings!
Why You’ll Love It
✔ Silky, rich, and ultra-smooth
✔ Cacao is rich in magnesium and antioxidants (choose raw and organic whenever possible)
✔ A high-protein, naturally sweetened treat
✔ Tastes like a dessert but is packed with nutrients
Ayurvedic & Paleo-Friendly
Toppings & Add-Ins
For Ayurvedic Balance
🔸 Vata (needs warmth & grounding): Dates, ghee, stewed apples (view Inspired Living Recipe here) cinnamon, soaked almonds
🔸 Pitta (needs cooling & calming): Coconut, rose petals, chia with coconut milk, fennel seeds
🔸 Kapha (needs warming & energizing): Ginger, turmeric, black pepper, honey, pumpkin seeds
For Paleo-ish Diet
🔹 Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pecans
🔹 Healthy Fats: Coconut flakes, coconut cream, macadamia butter, almond butter
🔹 Sweeteners: Raw honey, monk fruit, dates, or stevia
🔹 Superfoods: Cacao nibs, collagen powder, spirulina, matcha, protein powder, instant espresso powder
🔹 Spices: Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, turmeric, black pepper
Both of these chia puddings are nutritious, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you love the texture of classic chia pudding or prefer the silky-smooth Vitamix version, these recipes will satisfy your cravings while keeping you full and energized.