
This Vanilla Raspberry Chia Pudding delivers a creamy treat that works as a breakfast or anytime snack. All you need to do is blend, shake, and wait. By morning, you have a healthy pudding bursting with fresh flavor and a texture that feels like a little luxury with every bite.
My very first time making this was on a busy weeknight when I was craving something sweet but wanted to start my next day with a healthy breakfast too. Now I make it regularly year round and my family always finishes it within hours.
Ingredients
- Raspberries: choose fresh for brightness or frozen for convenience and price
- Milk: pick your favorite for different flavors and creaminess almond or coconut both work especially well
- Honey or maple syrup: gives gentle sweetness and keeps things refined sugar free pick high quality for best taste
- Pure vanilla extract: rounds out the flavor and gives the pudding that classic vanilla dessert aroma always use real vanilla if available
- Lemon juice: adds freshness and keeps the berries tasting bright try to use freshly squeezed for max flavor
- Greek yogurt: for extra tang and creaminess this is optional but I love the silkiness it brings whole milk yogurt makes it extra thick
- Chia seeds: the magic ingredient that thickens everything up and packs in nutrients look for fresh seeds with no musty smell
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Blend the Base:
- Combine raspberries milk honey or maple syrup vanilla extract lemon juice and Greek yogurt if using in your blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Distribute and Add Chia:
- Pour the raspberry mixture into two clean jars making sure to split evenly. Add one and a half tablespoons chia seeds to each jar.
- Shake and Set:
- Seal each jar tightly and give it a strong shake to evenly distribute the chia seeds throughout the mixture. This ensures even thickening and prevents clumps.
- Rest and Shake Again:
- Let the jars rest for about one hour in the fridge. Shake again to make sure the seeds remain well mixed and do not settle on the bottom.
- Chill Overnight:
- Place the jars back in the refrigerator and let them chill overnight. By morning your pudding will be perfectly thick and ready for breakfast. Give it another stir if needed before eating.

My favorite part is how the vanilla and raspberries play off each other for a dessert like flavor that still tastes so light and fresh. Once my little one tasted it the jars started disappearing almost instantly in the morning rush.
Storage Tips
Chia pudding needs to stay chilled in airtight containers. It holds up well for about two days. If it starts to separate just give it a good shake or stir. For even longer storage freeze in individual jars and thaw overnight in the fridge.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use strawberries blueberries or blackberries for a different spin. Swap maple syrup with honey or even try agave. Any milk works so use coconut for a tropical twist or oat for something creamier. Leave out the yogurt for a lighter pudding or try coconut yogurt for a vegan option.
Serving Suggestions
Top your pudding with a mix of fresh berries or a sprinkle of granola for crunch. I love adding a few cacao nibs for a little chocolate vibe or layering with extra Greek yogurt for a parfait effect.
Cultural Context
Chia seeds are an ancient ingredient known for their nutritional punch originally a staple in the diets of Aztec and Mayan cultures. These tiny seeds have made a big comeback for their ability to transform liquid into a thick pudding and deliver long lasting satiety.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, both fresh and frozen raspberries work well. Frozen berries blend smoothly and add natural sweetness.
- → What type of milk is best for this dish?
You can use cow's milk, almond, coconut, or any preferred variety. Each adds a unique taste and creaminess.
- → How long should the pudding set in the fridge?
Let the pudding rest overnight or at least for several hours to allow the chia seeds to fully thicken.
- → Is Greek yogurt required?
Greek yogurt is optional, but it enhances the creaminess and adds extra protein for a more satisfying meal.
- → How long does this pudding keep?
It stays fresh for up to two days when refrigerated, making it ideal for meal prep or quick snacks.
- → Can other sweeteners be used instead of honey?
Absolutely! Rice malt syrup or pure maple syrup also blend well with the raspberries and vanilla flavors.