Poppy Seed Chia Pudding

Featured in: Shared Family Meals

This creamy pudding combines chia seeds with nutty poppy seeds for a delightful make-ahead breakfast or healthy dessert. The mixture thickens overnight in the refrigerator, creating a luscious, spoonable texture with a subtle crunch from the seeds. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup or honey and enhanced with vanilla, it's delicious on its own or topped with fresh berries, toasted almonds, and shredded coconut. The plant-based version keeps for days in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. For extra richness, try coconut milk or add Greek yogurt, or brighten it with lemon zest for a citrus variation.

Updated on Sun, 25 Jan 2026 12:34:16 GMT
Creamy Poppy Seed Chia Pudding topped with fresh berries and crunchy almonds. Save
Creamy Poppy Seed Chia Pudding topped with fresh berries and crunchy almonds. | casaafer.com

Start your day with a burst of energy and a satisfying texture with this Poppy Seed Chia Pudding. This recipe takes the classic chia pudding and elevates it with a delightful poppy seed crunch and a hint of vanilla, creating a versatile dish that works as both a nourishing breakfast and a light, healthy dessert.

Creamy Poppy Seed Chia Pudding topped with fresh berries and crunchy almonds. Save
Creamy Poppy Seed Chia Pudding topped with fresh berries and crunchy almonds. | casaafer.com

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The magic happens while you sleep; the chia seeds absorb the almond milk, thickening into a luscious pudding consistency. It is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring only a few minutes of active whisking before it heads into the refrigerator to set.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups (480 ml) unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
  • 1/2 cup (80 g) chia seeds
  • 2 tbsp poppy seeds
  • 2–3 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: 1/2 cup (75 g) fresh berries (e.g., blueberries, raspberries)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup (30 g) toasted sliced almonds
  • Optional: 1 tbsp shredded coconut

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond milk, chia seeds, poppy seeds, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
2. Rest and Re-whisk
Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping.
3. Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until thickened to a pudding-like consistency.
4. Garnish and Serve
Stir the pudding before serving. Spoon into bowls or jars and top with fresh berries, toasted almonds, and shredded coconut if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best consistency, ensure you whisk the mixture twice before refrigeration. This second whisking after five minutes ensures the chia seeds are evenly distributed and prevents them from settling into a clump at the bottom of the bowl.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

For a richer, creamier profile, replace the almond milk with coconut milk or stir in 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt (if you don't require the recipe to be vegan). You can also add a bright, citrusy twist by incorporating 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest into the pudding mixture.

Serviervorschläge

This pudding is best served cold, topped with a handful of vibrant fresh berries for acidity, toasted sliced almonds for a robust crunch, and a light dusting of shredded coconut for a tropical finish.

Overnight Poppy Seed Chia Pudding, a healthy breakfast option with a slight seed crunch. Save
Overnight Poppy Seed Chia Pudding, a healthy breakfast option with a slight seed crunch. | casaafer.com

This Poppy Seed Chia Pudding is a versatile and satisfying dish that proves healthy eating can be both easy and delicious. Whether prepared for a quick weekday breakfast or a slow weekend brunch, it is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Recipe FAQs

How long does chia pudding need to set?

The pudding needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to thicken properly, though overnight chilling (8-12 hours) yields the best creamy consistency.

Can I use different milk alternatives?

Yes, almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, soy milk, or dairy milk all work well. Coconut milk creates an especially rich and creamy version.

How long does this pudding last in the fridge?

This chia pudding keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container, making it excellent for weekly meal prep.

Why do I need to whisk twice?

Whisking twice prevents the seeds from clumping together at the bottom. The first whisk combines everything, while the second whisk after 5 minutes redistributes settling seeds.

Is this suitable for special diets?

This pudding is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free when using plant-based milk. It's also high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids from the chia seeds.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Absolutely! Start with less maple syrup or honey and adjust to taste. The toppings like berries also provide natural sweetness, so you may need less sweetener in the base.

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Poppy Seed Chia Pudding

Creamy chia and poppy seed pudding perfect for breakfast or dessert with subtle crunch

Prep Time
10 mins
0
Time Required
10 mins
Recipe by Patrick OBrien


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine International

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary info Vegan-Friendly, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Base

01 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
02 1/2 cup chia seeds
03 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
04 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
05 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 Pinch of salt

Toppings

01 1/2 cup fresh berries such as blueberries or raspberries
02 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
03 1 tablespoon shredded coconut

Preparation Steps

Step 01

Combine base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond milk, chia seeds, poppy seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Step 02

Initial resting period: Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping and ensure even distribution of seeds.

Step 03

Refrigerate pudding: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until thickened to a pudding-like consistency.

Step 04

Finish and serve: Stir the pudding before serving. Spoon into bowls or jars and top with fresh berries, toasted almonds, and shredded coconut if desired.

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Tools Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Refrigerator

Allergy information

Be sure to review each component for allergens and talk with your doctor if you're unsure.
  • Tree nuts present in almond milk and nut toppings
  • Seeds including chia and poppy
  • Use alternative milk sources and omit tree nut toppings for those with nut allergies

Nutrition Info (each serving)

This data helps inform you, but isn't a substitute for advice from your healthcare provider.
  • kcal: 220
  • Fats: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Proteins: 6 g

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