This Smooth Red Berry Chia Pudding gives the classic chia pudding a new look with fresh red berry puree and ground chia seeds. This healthy mix makes a sweet and tart smooth pudding. Layer it with vanilla chia pudding and whipped coconut cream for a layered berries and cream dessert!
A New Take On Chia Seed Pudding
Chia seed pudding is always in the fridge in my house. And while I love the classic vanilla flavor, the change in seasons makes me look for ways to incorporate fresh berries where ever I can. I thought about just throwing some berries on top of the pudding one morning, but then I had a better idea.
What if we just pureed the whole mix together? Chia seeds and all. Typically the chia seeds remain intact so they can soak up the liquid – coconut milk in our case – and they puff up to form soft little pudding nuggets. That combined with the coconut milk gives you the tapioca pudding-like consistency of traditional chia seed pudding.
So, how do you think grinding up the chia seeds turned out?
Smooth Red Berry Chia Pudding
I thought I was a chia pudding fanatic before and after having this smooth berry delight, I am obsessed. When you grind the chia seeds, you don’t have to worry about the little magic nuggets losing any of their absorption power. It’s almost like they get super-powers when they are ground.
The pudding is thick, creamy, and smooth, and being able to blend it with the fresh berries ensures a harmonious consistency. Of course, having a fruit puree also adds to the thick and creamy, but its primary function is to deliver an intense sweet fruit flavor.
So now that we know grinding chia seeds along with fruit will work, think of the possibilities with other fruit. You could even take it a step further and freeze it for a cross between ice cream and sorbet.
How To Make Smooth Chia Seed Pudding
As with a traditional chia seed pudding, it should still sit in the fridge for a few hours before enjoying it. This gives it time to set and all of the flavors to meld together.
In keeping with the healthy theme of this treat, I also recommend using dairy-free milk. I prefer coconut milk because of the flavor and consistency. The unsweetened, unflavored coconut milk does not have a strong flavor like almond milk sometimes can. It is also a little thicker, which let’s face it when making pudding is welcome!
Berry Chia Pudding Parfait
Because we can’t just stop at the smooth red berry chia pudding, we should layer it with the classic vanilla chia pudding. Adding a layer of vanilla cream makes a dessert that reminiscent of berries and cream. It doesn’t get much better than that!
With all of the ingredients, this is not only a healthy treat option. It is now refined sugar-free, dairy-free, and even vegan. Your friends will never know!
Red Berry Smooth Chia Seed Pudding
EQUIPMENT
- 2 Serving Glasses
INGREDIENTS
Red Berry Chia Seed Pudding
- 3/4 cup strawberries, fresh or frozen
- 3/4 cup raspberries, fresh or frozen
- 6 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup coconut milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (or any sweetener of choice; more or less to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
Layer Options
- Vanilla Chia Pudding (to layer)
- Whipped Coconut Cream (to top)
INSTRUCTIONS
Red Berry Chia Seed Pudding
- In a blender, add the strawberries, raspberries, chia seeds, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.3/4 cup strawberries, fresh or frozen, 3/4 cup raspberries, fresh or frozen, 6 tablespoons chia seeds, 1 cup coconut milk, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- If using frozen fruit – The pudding will have the consistency of a smoothie, and you could enjoy right away.
- If using fresh fruit – Transfer the pudding to serving glasses or a bowl, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Layer Options
- To make a layered parfait, layer with the vanilla chia pudding and fresh fruit. Garnish with whipped cream and more fresh fruit slice. Enjoy!Vanilla Chia Pudding, Whipped Coconut Cream
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about the author ...
I'm Erin and I'm all about desserts - and a little bit of butter!
I've tested, written, and photographed hundreds of recipes on my website. Here you'll find the tastiest small batch desserts - all homemade, all simple, and all for you! Click here to learn more about me!