Matcha Chia Pudding Recipe (Healthy + Vegan)

Experience a matcha and chia fusion like never before with our Vegan Matcha Chia Pudding Recipe! Quick, nutritious, and utterly delicious, this creamy treat combines the goodness of chia seeds with the vibrant flavors of ceremonial-grade matcha. Elevate your breakfast or snack time with this delightful matcha chia seed pudding!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Chia pudding is quick and easy to make, requiring just a few minutes of preparation by mixing chia seeds with your favorite liquid, allowing it to set, and then enjoying a delicious and nutritious treat.
• Nutritious: Chia seed pudding is a highly nutritious dessert, rich in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, offering a healthful and satisfying option for any time of day.
• Allergy-friendly: Chia seed pudding is a versatile and allergy-friendly treat, as it can easily be adapted to suit various dietary restrictions by using plant-based milk and allergen-free sweeteners.
• Good on-the-go: Chia seed pudding’s convenient and portable nature allows for a hassle-free on-the-go option, making it a perfect grab-and-enjoy snack or breakfast for busy individuals.

What is matcha?

Matcha is a finely powdered green tea that originated in Japan. It is made from shade-grown tea leaves called tencha. The leaves are carefully harvested, steamed, and dried before being ground into a vibrant green powder. The shading process enhances the chlorophyll content, giving matcha its distinct color and flavor. Unlike regular steeped green tea, matcha is consumed by ingesting the whole tea leaf, making it more concentrated and nutrient-rich.

With its unique flavor and numerous health benefits, matcha has gained popularity worldwide. It is traditionally prepared by whisking the powdered tea with hot water to create a frothy, smooth beverage. Aside from its use in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha is used in various culinary applications like matcha lattes, smoothies, and desserts, including the delightful matcha chia seed pudding. It’s versatility and vibrant green color have made matcha a beloved ingredient in both traditional and modern cooking.

What is chia pudding?

Chia pudding is a nutritious dessert made by mixing chia seeds with a liquid base like almond or coconut milk, creating a creamy, gel-like consistency. It can be customized with different flavors and toppings, serving as a versatile breakfast, snack, or guilt-free dessert for health-conscious individuals.

Ingredients

These simple ingredients will make a delightful make-ahead breakfast, starting your day off right. Here are the main ingredients!

• Almond milk: I often have almond milk on hand, so that is what I tend to use.
• Chia seeds: You can use black chia seeds or white chia seeds. It’s up to you!
• Matcha: The matcha powder you use can change the taste of this recipe significantly. The green tea powder you want to use is ceremonial-grade matcha. I don’t recommend culinary-grade matcha for this recipe.
• Sweetener: I used maple syrup for this recipe. I always recommend using whatever your favorite sweetener is. Just keep in mind it might result in a slightly different flavor. 

Step-By-Step Instructions

The ideal ratio for a chia pudding recipe is to use a quarter cup of chia seeds for every cup of milk. With these proportions, it will be a nice thick pudding. All additional ingredients and toppings make it that much better.

1. Add matcha powder to a small bowl and pour hot water over top. Whisk using a matcha whisk until the matcha tea powder is fully integrated into the water.
2. Pour maple syrup and milk into the matcha tea mixture and stir thoroughly.
3. Add chia seed to a clear glass jar (or three) and pour the matcha tea milk mixture over top. Stir until well combined. Alternatively, you can add the lid to the jar and shake it vigorously.
4. Let sit in the fridge for 10+ minutes. (The chia seeds need time to do their thing!)
5. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

• Milk: Make this vegan matcha chia pudding recipe with different non-dairy milk – alternatives. Coconut milk, oat milk, hemp milk, and cashew milk are all great options. Just keep in mind if you use oat milk, you may want to opt for less maple syrup.
• Chia Seeds: I usually have black chia seeds on hand, but you can also use white.  
• Sweetener: I tend to go for maple syrup because it is liquid and easily integrates into whatever recipe I am making. Feel free to use whatever sweetener you have on hand. I do find that a liquid sweetener is better for chia pudding through, so agave would be a great alternative choice. If you opt for granular sugar such as cane sugar or coconut sugar or for less added sugar, stevia, or monk fruit, make sure to add the sugar to the hot matcha tea.
• Vanilla Extract: Elevate the flavor of your chia pudding by stirring in a splash of vanilla extract, adding a warm and aromatic essence to the overall taste.

Topping Ideas

• Coconut Flakes: Add a tropical twist to your chia pudding by sprinkling it with toasted coconut flakes, providing a delightful crunch and enhancing the coconut flavor.
• Cacao Nibs: For a rich and chocolaty taste, top your chia pudding with cacao nibs, which offer a delightful texture and a dose of antioxidants.
• Berries: Fresh berries are an excellent topping to this creamy treat, providing bursts of natural sweetness and a vibrant, colorful presentation.
• Coconut Cream: Drizzle your chia pudding with creamy coconut cream, infusing it with an extra layer of luscious coconut flavor and a velvety smooth texture.

Meal Prep

Matcha chia seed pudding is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare it the night before and enjoy it as a quick and healthy breakfast or snack throughout the week.

Storage

You can store chia seed pudding in an air-tight container in the fridge but not the freezer. 

Fridge

After preparing the pudding, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can typically last for up to 4-5 days. If you want to prepare it in advance, consider preparing individual servings in small containers for easy grab-and-go treats.

I highly recommend storing food in a glass jar such as a mason jar or weck jar, or a glass Tupperware container. FYI, did you know that leftovers stay fresh longer when stored in a glass container?

Freezer

When a recipe is quick and easy to make, I don’t recommend freezing it. There’s no benefit. 

Matcha Chia Pudding Nutrition Info

A cup of matcha has roughly the same amount of caffeine as coffee (or slightly less, depending on the brand and roast of coffee). Creamy matcha chia pudding is a nutrient-rich dessert that offers several health benefits. Chia seeds are packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can aid digestion, promote satiety, and support heart health. Matcha powder is high in antioxidants and provides a gentle caffeine boost, enhancing focus and concentration.

What are the health benefits of chia seeds?

Chia seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition, offering numerous health benefits when incorporated into a balanced diet. Here are some of the key health benefits of chia seeds:

1. High in Nutrients: Despite their small size, chia seeds are packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of fiber, providing both soluble and insoluble fiber, which aids in digestion and supports gut health. Chia seeds also contain protein, making them a valuable plant-based protein option for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, they are rich in minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese, all of which are vital for bone health and various physiological functions.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Chia seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and may improve brain health.

3. Antioxidant Content: Chia seeds are abundant in antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Antioxidants help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of cell damage and certain diseases.

4. Weight Management: The combination of fiber, protein, and healthy fats in chia seeds can promote satiety and keep you feeling fuller for longer. This can lead to reduced calorie intake and aid in weight management.

5. Blood Sugar Regulation: Chia seeds have been shown to slow down the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar in the bloodstream, leading to better blood sugar control. This can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those looking to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.

6. Hydration and Endurance: Chia seeds have the ability to absorb many times their weight in water, forming a gel-like substance. This property helps retain moisture in the body and can be particularly beneficial for athletes and individuals engaged in physical activities, as it may enhance hydration and endurance.

7. Easy to Incorporate into Diet: Chia seeds have a mild, nutty flavor and a versatile texture, making them easy to incorporate into various dishes. They can be added to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, salads, and baked goods, allowing for a convenient way to boost nutritional intake.

What are the health benefits of matcha?

Matcha, the finely powdered green tea from Japan, offers a range of health benefits due to its unique cultivation and preparation process. Here are some of the key health benefits of matcha:

1. Abundance of Antioxidants: Matcha is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which are potent compounds known for their ability to combat oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals. The most abundant catechin in matcha is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been linked to various health benefits, including potential cancer-fighting properties.

2. Enhanced Focus and Concentration: Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and a sense of calm. When combined with the natural caffeine content in matcha, L-theanine can induce a state of focused alertness without the jittery feeling associated with excessive caffeine consumption.

3. Boosts Metabolism and Weight Management: Some studies suggest that the combination of catechins and caffeine in matcha may help boost metabolism and support weight loss efforts. Additionally, matcha contains a type of dietary fiber called EGCG, which may aid in digestion and contribute to feelings of satiety.

4. Promotes Heart Health: Regular consumption of matcha has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. The antioxidants in matcha help to improve cholesterol levels and reduce oxidative stress, both of which are important factors in maintaining cardiovascular health.

5. Supports Detoxification: The chlorophyll content in matcha gives it a vibrant green color and is believed to support the body’s detoxification process, helping to remove harmful toxins from the body.

6. Brain Health: The combination of L-theanine and caffeine in matcha can improve cognitive function and memory. Some research suggests that regular consumption of matcha may be associated with a decreased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

7. Boosts Immune System: The antioxidants in matcha can help strengthen the immune system and protect against infections and illnesses.

8. Enhances Skin Health: Matcha’s antioxidant content can contribute to healthy and radiant skin by protecting it from UV damage and promoting skin cell regeneration.

More Easy Breakfast Recipes

• Vegan Potato Waffles
• Purple Sweet Potato Chia Pudding
• Easy Banana Chia Pudding
• Vegan Applesauce Waffles
• Avocado Banana Smoothie Recipe
• Easy Pineapple Spinach Smoothie

Recipe

Recipe

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