Vanilla Berry Chia Pudding

When someone says “chia”, what is the first thing that pops into your mind?
For millions, the answer is “Chia pet”, the terracotta figurines where the chia sprouts grow within a couple of weeks to resemble the animal's fur.
Who doesn’t remember the Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia commercial?
“They’re fun, they’re green, they’re the greatest thing you’ve ever seen...I want a chia puppy for my school! I want a chia guy for the office! I want a chia tree with a color changing star light!”
Best.Commercial.EVER.
Seriously, name one commercial better than this one.
It's enticing. It's smart. It's forward-thinking. It's caring. It's sensitive.
It brainwashes you into running out and getting one of those super fun chia pets. It is actually so powerful I’m thinking of getting one right now.
In your face Old Spice!

 
For us healthy foodies however, chia seeds are much more than just “pets that grow”.
Chia seeds are pretty tasty little suckers, with nutrition credentials that can’t be overlooked.
We throw chia seeds in smoothies, make crackers and sprinkle them on every single salad we create.
Because when you get your hands on a superfood, you don't want to let go. That’s the number one rule of healthy eating. Right?
If you’re still hesitant to jump on the chia seed band wagon, I hope that this super pretty, pink, girly, sweet, creamy, full of unicorns and rainbows pudding, will convince you.
I really do love the chia seed for it’s versatility and abundant health benefits (and I’m totally being serious here!)
Chia really is the seed that just keeps on giving. Check out my post on the the health benefits of this Aztec wonder food and why it’s such a great addition to any diet.
This Vanilla Berry Chia Pudding is a celebration of chia goodness and overall amazingness. It’s super easy to make and requires just a little pre-soaking.
Great layered with any fruit you want but berries just fit so well...you have to try it with berries.
Plus, it’s insanely healthy!

Vanilla Berry Chia Pudding                                                                                    Print this recipe!

Ingredients 
Serves 2
¼ cup / 1.44 oz / 41 gr chia seeds
¾ cup / 175 ml almond milk (I used Pacific)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup or raw coconut palm sugar
1 cup of berries (I used raspberries and blueberries)
1 very ripe banana, mashed (optional)

Directions

In a mason jar (or a Tupperware) combine chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla extract, sweetener and mashed banana (if using.) Let soak for at least 1 hour (overnight is best.)
After soaking, give a good stir and take a taste. Adjust sweetness if necessary.
Layer a glass (or a bowl) with the chia pudding and berries.
Enjoy!

Nutrition facts

One serving (includes banana) yields 261 calories, 8 grams of fat, 48 grams of carbs and 5 grams of protein.