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If you’re looking for a delightful and nutritious treat, this Banana Chia Pudding is perfect for you. Not only is it sweet thanks to the natural sweetness of the bananas, it’s also creamy and thick courtesy of the beautiful mixture of greek yogurt and chia seeds. We all know how they count as a superfood, so it’s not only delicious but also a healthy way to start off your day or enjoy it as a nutritious snack! Moreover, it’s super simple to make and is ready in minutes only.
Banana Chia Pudding
Ingredients
- 4 Cups Milk (Plant-based or regular)
- 2 Cups Greek Yogurt
- 3 Cups Chia Seeds
- 1 Cup Chopped Almonds
- 2 Bananas
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine the bananas, Greek yogurt, and milk. Blend for a couple of seconds at a time until you achieve a very smooth texture. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add another cup of milk.
- Transfer the blended mixture into a container. Add the chia seeds and mix well until the seeds are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Top the pudding with chopped almonds. If you find the texture of chia seeds unappealing, you can refrigerate the mixture first, allowing the seeds to expand, and then blend it again for a smoother texture before adding the almonds.
- Place the container in the fridge and allow the pudding to set for at least a few hours, preferably overnight. This allows the chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and achieve a pudding-like consistency.
Notes
Kitchen Equipment Used
Blender or food processor Measuring cups Container Spoon or whisk for stirring Glass cups (or these)
Why Banana Chia Pudding?
Like I said it before, this banana Chia Pudding is an excellent choice for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a few minutes of your time and minimal kitchen equipment. Secondly, it is highly nutritious, providing a good source of protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. Thirdly, it is versatile—you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer it thick and creamy or slightly thinner, with added fruits or nuts, this recipe can be tailored to meet your cravings, and it’s so so good in summer!
Ingredients You Will Need
- 4 Cups Milk (Plant-based or regular)
- 2 Cups Greek Yogurt (I used strawberry flavored, but plain, vanilla, or any other flavor can work)
- 3 Cups Chia Seeds
- 1 Cup Chopped Almonds
- 2 Bananas
Step-by-Step Directions
Blend the Base Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine the bananas, Greek yogurt, and milk. Blend for a couple of seconds at a time until you achieve a very smooth texture. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add another cup of milk.
Mix in the Chia Seeds
Transfer the blended mixture into a container. Add the chia seeds and mix well until the seeds are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Adding toppings
Top the pudding with chopped almonds. If you find the texture of chia seeds unappealing, you can refrigerate the mixture first, allowing the seeds to expand, and then blend it again for a smoother texture before adding the almonds.
Refrigerate and Serve
Place the container in the fridge and allow the pudding to set for at least a few hours, preferably overnight. This allows the chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and achieve a pudding-like consistency. The pudding can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Kitchen Equipment Used
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups
- Container
- Spoon or whisk for stirring
- Glass cups (or these)
Storage Tips
Banana Chia Pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can store the base mixture (without the chia seeds) separately and mix in the chia seeds as needed. This way, you can extend the freshness of the pudding for up to a week.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
Different Flavors of Yogurt
While I used strawberry-flavored Greek yogurt, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla, blueberry, or plain. Each flavor will bring a unique taste to the pudding.
Plant-Based Options
Use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk to make this recipe vegan-friendly. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Nut Alternatives
I love the difference in textures that almonds add to the pudding, but they’re not necessary if you’re allergic. You can instead add some granola or coconut flakes. And if you’re not a fan of almonds especially, you can absolutely try using walnuts, pecans, or cashews. These will add a different crunch and flavor profile.
Additional Fruits
You can also top your pudding with fresh berries, sliced kiwi, or mango for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions Concerning This Banana Chia Pudding
1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before blending to make the process easier.
2. How can I make the pudding thicker?
If you prefer a thicker pudding, reduce the amount of milk you use. You can also add more chia seeds to increase the thickness.
3. Is there a substitute for chia seeds?
While chia seeds are the best for this pudding due to their gel-like consistency when soaked, you can experiment with flaxseeds. However, the texture will be slightly different.
4. Can I add sweeteners to the pudding?
If you find the pudding not sweet enough, especially if you use plain greek yogurt, you can add a tablespoon of honey, maple syrup, or any sweetener of your choice to the blended mixture.
Pairing the Chia Pudding with other Foods
Let me tell you something, this Banana Chia Pudding pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods and drinks:
- Breakfast: Enjoy it with a side of granola and fresh fruit for a complete breakfast.
- Snack: Pair it with a cup of green tea or a smoothie for a healthy midday snack.
- Dessert: Serve it with a drizzle of dark chocolate or a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a delightful dessert.
And that’s it for today! I hope you enjoyed this delightful Banana Chia Pudding and that it will become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s a simple, nutritious, and versatile recipe that you’ll love experimenting with.
