Strawberry Chia Pudding | 5-Min Creamy Breakfast Fix - Cheese and Recipes

Strawberry Chia Pudding | 5-Min Creamy Breakfast Fix

Looking for a breakfast or snack that’s as pretty as it is healthy? Say hello to strawberry chia pudding a creamy, naturally sweet treat packed with nutrients. It’s one of those rare recipes that works for any time of day: breakfast, post-workout, dessert you name it. This dish blends the hydrating power of strawberries with the fiber-rich magic of chia seeds, creating a texture that’s thick, satisfying, and spoon-ready. In this article, I’ll show you how to make it, customize it, and store it. Plus, it’s completely dairy-free, gluten-free, and meal-prep friendly.

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Strawberry Chia Pudding: Creamy, Healthy & Meal Prep Friendly

The first time I tried strawberry chia pudding, I honestly wasn’t expecting much. A few tablespoons of chia seeds in milk with mashed fruit? Sounded too simple. But by the next morning, the mixture had transformed into something creamy, indulgent, and packed with flavor—without added sugar, cooking, or effort.

Now it’s a staple in my fridge. I make a few jars at once and grab one as I head out the door or settle into my desk. It’s become my go-to when I want something light but satisfying—especially during strawberry season.

This pudding is like a chilled cousin to the Greek Yogurt Parfait with Honey—cool, refreshing, and visually beautiful. But unlike yogurt, this one’s completely plant-based, so it fits seamlessly into vegan, paleo, and dairy-free lifestyles.

A sweet, creamy dish you can feel good about

The beauty of strawberry chia pudding lies in its flexibility. You only need three base ingredients: chia seeds, plant milk, and strawberries. From there, you can sweeten it with maple syrup, add vanilla for depth, or layer in fruit and granola like you would with a parfait.

Plus, chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and plant protein making this dish not just beautiful, but genuinely nourishing. And strawberries? They’re loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants.

Together, they make a creamy, fruity bowl you’ll crave again and again just like the refreshing Tropical Dragon Fruit Bowl.

Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits

Chia seeds: tiny but mighty nutrition powerhouses

The foundation of any good strawberry chia pudding is, of course, the chia seed. These tiny seeds absorb liquid and expand into a gel-like texture, creating that classic “pudding” consistency—no heat required. But their texture isn’t the only reason to love them.

Ingredients for Strawberry Chia Pudding

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Strawberry Chia Pudding in Jar with Toppings

Strawberry Chia Pudding | 5-Min Creamy Breakfast Fix


  • Author: Chef Jeff
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A refreshing and nutritious strawberry chia pudding made with plant-based milk and fresh strawberries. Naturally sweet, fiber-rich, and perfect for meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 1/2 cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut)
  • 1/2 cup mashed or blended strawberries
  • 12 teaspoons maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Toppings: sliced strawberries, granola, coconut flakes`

Instructions

  • In a small jar or bowl, combine chia seeds and plant milk.
  • Stir in the mashed strawberries, maple syrup, and vanilla.
  • Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  • Serve chilled with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For smoother pudding, blend after soaking.
  • Use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 min
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: No-cook

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 jar
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: strawberry chia pudding, vegan chia pudding, meal prep breakfast

Chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse. Just two tablespoons pack:

  • 10g of fiber
  • 5g of plant-based protein
  • Heart-healthy omega-3s
  • Calcium, iron, and antioxidants

They support digestion, improve satiety, and keep your energy stable. That’s why strawberry chia pudding is such a smart breakfast option—it satisfies without the sugar crash.

You’ll find chia seeds in other nutrient-forward recipes like our Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie and the fan-favorite Berry Oatmeal Bake.

Strawberries: sweet, vibrant, and packed with vitamin C

Strawberries don’t just bring the flavor—they deliver key nutrition benefits, too. Rich in vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants, they support immune health and skin glow. Plus, they offer natural sweetness, meaning less need for added sugars.

For this recipe, you can use:

  • Fresh strawberries for the best flavor
  • Frozen strawberries if making in batches or off-season
  • A mix of purée + chunks for texture variety

The base liquid can be almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or even dairy milk if you’re not plant-based. The result? A creamy, berry-forward pudding that’s as healthy as it is satisfying.

You can customize with sweeteners like maple syrup or add-ins like vanilla extract, lemon zest, or even a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess (if you’re not dairy-free).

How to Make Strawberry Chia Pudding + Easy Flavor Twists

Simple prep for a no-fuss, make-ahead treat

One of the best things about strawberry chia pudding is how little effort it takes to make. You can prep it in under 10 minutes—then the fridge does the rest. It’s ideal for busy weekdays, meal prep, or when you want something refreshing without turning on the stove.

Here’s how to make the basic version:

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut)
  • ½ cup fresh or frozen strawberries, mashed or blended
  • 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Steps:

  1. In a small bowl or jar, mix the chia seeds with plant milk.
  2. Stir in mashed or puréed strawberries, maple syrup, and vanilla.
  3. Let sit for 5 minutes, stir again to prevent clumping.
  4. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours (or overnight).
  5. Serve chilled with fresh strawberry slices and your favorite toppings.

Want a thicker texture? Use less liquid or more chia seeds. Want it smoother? Blend the whole mixture before chilling.

Mixing Strawberry Chia Pudding Ingredients

For a more indulgent feel, layer it in jars with granola, like our Greek Yogurt Parfait with Honey—but dairy-free!

Easy flavor twists to try

Keep it interesting with these ideas:

  • Chocolate strawberry: Add 1 tsp cocoa powder to the mix
  • Strawberry coconut: Use full-fat coconut milk and top with shredded coconut
  • Lemon berry: Add fresh lemon zest and juice for brightness
  • Protein boost: Stir in 1 tbsp hemp seeds or vegan protein powder

You can also create layered versions using other fruits like mango, raspberry, or banana for variety all week long.

Serving Ideas, Storage & How to Make It a Habit

Simple ways to serve strawberry chia pudding

Whether you’re serving it in a jar, a glass, or a small bowl, strawberry chia pudding always looks elegant. The pink color alone is enough to impress—especially when layered with toppings.

Here are a few topping ideas to take your pudding from simple to stunning:

  • Fresh sliced strawberries or a strawberry rose
  • Granola or puffed quinoa for crunch
  • Coconut flakes or cacao nibs
  • Chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios
  • A dollop of almond butter or dairy-free yogurt

For a full breakfast, pair it with something savory like Avocado Toast with Egg or enjoy it with a small cup of coffee or matcha for a satisfying start to your day.

If you want it dessert-style, serve in a dessert glass, top with whipped coconut cream, and drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce for a light, healthy twist on strawberry shortcake.

Make it once, eat all week

Strawberry chia pudding is ideal for meal prep. You can store it in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It gets creamier each day as the chia seeds continue to soak up the liquid, so don’t be surprised if day 3 tastes even better.

Want to streamline your week? Prep multiple servings on Sunday night. Keep a tray of toppings nearby so you can customize each jar depending on your mood.

It’s also freezer-friendly—just leave a little space in the jar for expansion, and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to eat.

Once you realize how simple and versatile it is, strawberry chia pudding becomes one of those no-brainer recipes you keep in rotation all year long.

FAQ

1. How long does strawberry chia pudding last in the fridge?
Strawberry chia pudding lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The texture becomes creamier with time, making it ideal for meal prep or grab-and-go breakfasts.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries for chia pudding?
Yes! Frozen strawberries work perfectly. Just thaw and mash or blend them before mixing. They’re great for batch prep and add the same flavor and nutrients as fresh ones.

3. Is strawberry chia pudding healthy for weight loss?
Definitely. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with healthy fats and plant-based protein. It keeps you full longer and stabilizes blood sugar—great for weight management.

4. Can you blend chia pudding for a smoother texture?
Yes, blending your pudding after soaking gives it a silky texture, closer to mousse. Perfect if you’re not a fan of the tapioca-like consistency of whole chia seeds.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s fast, filling, and fun to eat, strawberry chia pudding delivers. It’s one of those rare dishes that’s both nutritious and indulgent, perfect for busy mornings or an after-dinner treat.

Try mixing it up with other flavors, layering it parfait-style, or serving it chilled in summer as a refreshing dessert.

And if you’re in the mood for more clean, make-ahead options, don’t miss our Berry Oatmeal Bake or the dreamy Fruity Chocolate Smoothie Bowl—both fridge-friendly favorites.

Recipe Summary

Strawberry chia pudding is a creamy, naturally sweet treat made with just a few simple ingredients: chia seeds, plant milk, and mashed strawberries. Rich in fiber, omega-3s, and antioxidants, it’s perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert. Just mix, chill, and enjoy—it thickens beautifully overnight. You can customize it with maple syrup, vanilla, and toppings like granola or coconut. Make a batch in minutes and store it for the week. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrition in every spoonful. Whether you’re meal prepping or just craving something light and healthy, this pudding fits right into your lifestyle.

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