Looking for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack idea? Look no further than this tart cherry chia pudding! This tasty treat is not only easy to make but is also packed with health benefits. Whether you are in need of a quick and satisfying meal on the go, or you are just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, cherry chia pudding is sure to hit the spot. Grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up this simple yet scrumptious dish that will have you coming back for more!
Why You Will Love This Cherry Chia Pudding
Cherry chia pudding is a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack.
Packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants from the cherries and chia seeds, this pudding is not only tasty but it is also a little powerhouse of goodness.
Whether you're looking for a new way to incorporate superfoods into your diet, or simply craving a sweet treat, cherry chia pudding is bound to become a new favorite.
It is:
- Gluten-Free;
- Dairy Free;
- Vegan;
- Made ahead of time so perfect for meal prepping;
- Transportable;
- Kid-friendly;
- Packed with fiber, protein and antioxidants.
Did you know:
Chia seeds absorb up to ten times their weight in liquid. They are also packed with fiber and protein, making these tiny seeds a great ingredient to use to start to the day.
What You Need To Make Cherry Chia Pudding
With a handful of ingredients, we can make this delicious cherry breakfast recipe.
You will need:
- Fresh cherries: I used tart cherries, but if you prefer sweet cherries then use that. If its not cherry season you can easily use frozen cherries instead;
- Yogurt: I used a high-protein Greek yogurt, however, this can be made dairy-free and vegan by using a plant-based;
- Chia seeds: use the black chia seeds or the white chia seeds;
- Sugar: or alternative granulated sweetener. This is used to pull the juice from the cherries and make a cherry compote. If you prefer to not use sweetener then simply heat the cherries at a low temperature until they become soft, and the juice starts to come out;
- Ground cinnamon;
- Walnuts: you can use another nut if you prefer, almonds work well here also, and give an almost cherry pie flavor to the pudding;
- Coconut flakes: try using toasted coconut flakes for even more flavor;
- Lime: fresh is best, however bottled lime juice will also work;
- Vanilla extract: use extract, not essence.
You may also want to use some honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup when serving up your cherry chia pudding.
How To Make Chia Pudding With Cherries
To make cherry chia pudding, simply mix together the chia seeds, yogurt, coconut flakes, and a splash of vanilla.
Wash the cherries and remove the pits and then combine with the sugar and lime juice and give it a good stir.
Pop both mixtures into the fridge for about an hour, or overnight.
This 'resting time' is important, and it allows the cherries to soften slightly and start to release their juices, and it allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid from the yogurt, giving you the chia pudding consistency.
Once they have had their rest and the chia mixture has reached a pudding-like consistency simply add all of the ingredients to small glasses or mason jars, starting with a layer of cherry compote, followed by the chia pudding and a garnish of extra cherries for sweetness, chopped walnuts for crunch and texture, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra yum.
Hey voila, breakfast is served.
Cherries are packed full of antioxidants.
The Best Toppings For Cherry Chia Seed Pudding
Now here is where you get to make this your own and have some fun with decorating your creation.
Here are some of my favorite toppings:
- Fresh cherries or other fresh fruit: for an extra burst of sweetness.
- Granola: for some crunch and to make the pudding more filling
- Coconut flakes
- Chopped almonds or walnuts: for added protein
- Cacao nibs or dark chocolate chips: chocolate and cherry are a match made in heaven, and by adding cacao nibs you are adding more antioxidants
- Honey or maple syrup
- An extra dollop of Greek yogurt: this adds more protein
- Fresh mint leaves: for a pop of color
Grab a couple of these great options and get creative!
Did You Know?
Cacao nibs are full of antioxidants. Make yourself a chocolate cherry chia pudding by sprinkling some on top or added goodness.
Why You Should Meal Prep Chia Pudding
If you want to start meal prepping some breakfasts ahead of time, this is the perfect recipe to start with!
Why?
Because it is so easy, and you can make up a whole batch in a couple of minutes.
The other benefits of adding chia pudding into your breakfast meal prepping routine include:
- saving time and money: think of the convenience of being able to grab your breakfast straight from the fridge in the morning;
- ensure you have a healthy breakfast ready to go so you don't feel like swinging through the drive-through on the way to work or school, or grabbing a box of sugary cereal from the cupboard;
- chia seeds are nutrient-dense: by adding them to your diet you are getting more fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants;
- fussy kids? Chia pudding is super versatile, you can add different toppings to satisfy everyone's preferences.
Once you have this made up, simply store in small mason jars in the fridge until you are ready to eat.
They should keep for 2-3 days if stored correctly.
Happy Eating.
xx
Recipe
Tart Cherry Chia Pudding
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Ingredients
Chia Pudding Mixture
- 1 ½ cups Greek yogurt or other yogurt of choice
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 tablespoon coconut flakes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cherry Mixture
- 1 cup fresh cherries
- ¼ cup sugar or other granulated sweetener of choice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoon walnuts
- 1 lime
- Option: honey or agave syrup for serving
Instructions
- In a medium-size bowl add yogurt, chia, coconut flakes, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the ingredients are combined. Set aside for at least 10 - 15 minutes.
Cherries
- Wash the cherries and remove the pits. Pop into a medium-sized bowl.
- Add in the sugar, juice of half a lime, and cinnamon.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. This helps the cherries to release their juices.
Serving
- Put a layer of the cherry mixture into the bottom of 2 glass jars. Then add the chia pudding mixture.
- Garnish with extra cherries, chopped walnuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and extra coconut flakes.
Notes
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Sasha says
So so so good! Loved the tart cherry mixture in combo with the chia pudding!
Isabel says
I loved this! It's creamy, delicious, and so easy to make. Perfect for breakfast or a snack. The cherries and honey add a sweet touch that's just right.
Therese says
One of my favorite snacks! I've been making this chia pudding since you first posted the recipe. Love the combination of flavors and textures. This last time I added a mix of nuts instead of just walnuts, and it was also nice!
Max says
This chia pudding came out great! I love tart cherries and this was the perfect use for them. Thanks so much for the great recipe!
Tasha says
This is a gorgeous dessert and so delicious too! My family wasn't too sure about the chia but once they tasted it they dove right in and devoured the rest. Thanks for providing the sugar-free option as I like to avoid using granulated sugar whenever possible!