Banana Chia Pudding Recipe (5 Minute Prep)

Dive into the simplicity and delight of this Banana Chia Pudding recipe. It’s a perfect blend of nutritious ingredients and effortless preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this chia seed pudding recipe offers a straightforward route to a quick breakfast or a healthy snack. Ready to enhance your mornings or satisfy your sweet cravings with wholesome goodness?

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: With just a few minutes of prep time and no cooking required, this recipe is the epitome of simplicity.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber, omega-3s, and potassium for a health boost.
• Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prep, this pudding can simplify your routine, proving to be the perfect make-ahead healthy breakfast or snack.

Nutrition For Mental Health

Bananas are rich in vitamin B6. They are also a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.

Chia seeds provide a robust profile of protein, fiber, healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus. Additionally, these seeds are rich in vitamins B1 and B3 and vital minerals, including zinc, iron, and calcium. Research shows that chia seeds can offer benefits for mental health, including antianxiety and antidepressant effects.

Ingredients

This banana chia seed pudding called for five simple ingredients. 

• Bananas: The key to natural sweetness and creamy texture is ripe bananas.
• Chia Seeds: Loaded with nutrients and act as a thickening agent. Black chia seeds are commonly found at grocery stores. However, white chia seeds work just as well. 
• Milk: Choose your favorite variety for the perfect creamy base.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
• Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy flavor that complements the banana.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This banana chia seed pudding recipe takes minutes to prep, making it the perfect make-ahead breakfast.  

1. Place banana in a medium bowl and mash thoroughly.

2. Add chia seeds, cinnamon, maple syrup, and milk to the bowl.

3. Combine thoroughly.

4. Place in fridge for at least 30 minutes (to an hour or overnight).
5. Divide between two jars and top with sliced bananas and your favorite nut butter.

Recipe Variations

This healthy chia pudding recipe is tasty as is. Here are some recipe variations in case you need them!

• Milk: This recipe calls for almond milk. However, you can use any plant-based milk you like. I recommend using whatever you have on hand, be it coconut milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
• Sweetener: Swap maple syrup with honey or agave, depending on what you have on hand. For a sugar-free option, just skip the sweetener altogether or opt for stevia. 
• Chocolate: Add cocoa powder, cacao nibs, or chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist, turning this into banana chocolate chia pudding. 
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract could be used in lieu of maple syrup. 

Servings Ideas

Add your favorite toppings and pair this creamy pudding with your favorite vegan baked goods!

• Nuts: Introduce a crunchy texture and healthy plant-based fat.
• Nut Butters: Enhance flavor and creaminess with almond butter or peanut butter drizzled on top.
• Coconut Flakes: Offer a subtle sweetness and tropical flair.
• Fresh Fruit: Adds natural sweetness and a burst of color. My go-to is banana slices or fresh berries. 
• Muffins: Serve alongside for a more filling option. These Vegan Blueberry Muffins, Vegan Banana Bread Muffins, and Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins are delicious!
• Scones: Perfect for a decadent breakfast or brunch pairing.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container, such as a jar, in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. For best results, I recommend enjoying sooner rather than later, though!

Recipe