Best Banana Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

Banana Chia Seed Pudding makes a delicious breakfast or a satisfying snack. If you're looking to change up your usual chia pudding, adding mashed banana is the perfect way to make it tastier and more exciting!

ARE CHIA SEEDS GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH?

• Absolutely! Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition. They're packed with protein, healthy carbs, and are especially high in fiber.
• Many dietitians recommend adding chia seeds to water as a natural way to combat constipation. Here's why: chia seeds are rich in fiber, mostly insoluble, which allows them to absorb liquid and swell into a gel-like texture. This unique property can help keep things moving smoothly in your digestive system. Adding chia seeds to water can be especially helpful for preventing constipation, particularly while traveling, when staying hydrated can be a challenge.
• You don't need to add a lot of chia seeds to your water-just about a teaspoon per glass will do. Let them sit until they expand, then drink as usual. Since the fiber in chia seeds isn't digested, it adds bulk to your stool, helping things move along.
• If you've struggled with constipation (I feel you, I've been there too! 😠), this simple trick might be a game-changer. It's so effective that people often call it an "internal shower."
• This banana chia seed pudding is even healthier than chia water because it includes fruit, calcium from milk, and beneficial probiotics from yogurt. Another excellent way to support digestion is by adding oats to your diet-like in my Oatmeal with Fresh Fruit and Walnuts recipe!

BANANA CHIA SEED PUDDING INGREDIENTS

• 4 tbsp chia seeds - This recipe serves two, so adjust as needed.
• ½ cup plain or Greek yogurt - I love using plain yogurt in smoothies and chia pudding for its probiotic benefits. Be sure to use plain, not flavored, as fruity yogurts contain extra sugar.
• ½ cup almond milk - I find that using only yogurt makes the pudding too thick, so almond milk helps create the perfect creamy texture. If you prefer, you can use water instead.
• 2 tbsp maple syrup - Feel free to adjust this amount. The banana adds natural sweetness, so you may not need much. Add more if needed just before eating.
• 1 mashed banana - Ripe bananas work best for sweetness, but remember they have higher sugar content. Adjust other sweeteners accordingly.
• 1 tsp cocoa powder - I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder.
• Toppings of your choice - I love adding berries, but banana slices or kiwi are great options too!

HOW TO MAKE BANANA CHIA SEED PUDDING

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the mashed banana, yogurt, almond milk, maple syrup, and cocoa powder. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
2. Add Chia Seeds: Stir in the chia seeds, mixing thoroughly to ensure they're evenly distributed.
3. Chill: Divide the mixture between two small glasses or jars. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or, for best results, overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and create a pudding-like texture.
4. Serve and Add Toppings: Before serving, give the pudding a quick stir. Add your favorite toppings like fresh berries, banana slices, or kiwi.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

STORAGE SUGGESTIONS

• Use airtight containers: Keep your pudding fresh by storing it in airtight containers. Glass jars with tight lids, like mason jars or Weck jars, work really well and help prevent the pudding from picking up any smells from the fridge.
• How long it lasts: You can store your banana chia pudding in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days, but for the best taste and texture, try to enjoy it within 3 days. Since bananas are naturally sweet, they can cause the pudding to brown a little if it sits too long.
• Wait to add toppings: If you're adding toppings like granola, nuts, or fresh fruit, it's best to add them right before eating. This way, everything stays fresh and crunchy!

MORE CHIA RECIPES

• Chia Yogurt Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, chia pudding, and your favorite fresh fruits and nuts.
• Kefir Chia Pudding: Combining the probiotic benefits of kefir with the nutritional power of chia seeds, this pudding is a gut-friendly option that's easy to prepare overnight. 
• Chia Seed Pudding with Fruit: A perfect choice for busy mornings when you need a healthy start. 
• Chia Pudding with Oat Milk: A plant-based treat that combines chia seeds with oat milk for a guilt-free dessert or snack.
• Simple Overnight Rolled Oats with Chia Seeds: This no-cook breakfast combines the wholesome goodness of rolled oats and chia seeds, soaked overnight for a quick and nutritious meal.

WRAPPING UP

This Banana Chia Seed Pudding is a delicious and nutritious option that's perfect for breakfast or a snack.

With its creamy texture and natural sweetness, it's easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Whether you prepare it the night before or a few hours in advance, it's a convenient and satisfying treat that you can enjoy any time of the day!

Want more from my healthy breakfast collection? Give my popular Banana Overnight Oats a try-you're going to love them!

I'd love to hear your feedback and any creative twists you try-don't be shy, share your thoughts in the comments below!