Go Back

Lemon & Vanilla Chia Pudding (Dairy-Free) - Bright, Creamy, and Simple

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chia seeds: Black or white chia seeds both work. White chia gives a lighter look.
  • Unsweetened plant-based milk (2 cups): Almond, cashew, oat, or coconut milk. For the creamiest texture, choose a richer milk.
  • Fresh lemon zest (1–2 teaspoons): Adds aromatic lemon oils for a bright, clean flavor.
  • Fresh lemon juice (2–3 tablespoons): Adjust to taste; start with less and add more if you like it tangier.
  • Pure vanilla extract (1–1.5 teaspoons): Rounds out the citrus with warm, sweet notes.
  • Sweetener (2–3 tablespoons): Maple syrup, agave, honey alternative, or a granular sugar. Add more or less to taste.
  • Pinch of fine sea salt: Enhances flavor and keeps the profile balanced.
  • Optional toppings: Fresh berries, sliced banana, toasted coconut, crushed pistachios, lemon zest curls, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Method
 

  1. Start with the liquid base: In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together the plant-based milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon to your liking. The base should taste slightly sweeter than you want the final pudding to be.
  2. Add chia seeds slowly: Sprinkle the chia seeds over the liquid while whisking. This helps prevent clumps. Aim for about 6 tablespoons of chia for 2 cups of liquid as a starting point.
  3. Whisk well, then wait: Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes, then whisk again to break up any seeds sticking together. This second whisk is key for an even, creamy texture.
  4. Chill to set: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight for best results. The pudding will thicken as the chia absorbs the liquid.
  5. Check consistency: Stir after chilling. If it’s too thin, add 1–2 teaspoons more chia, whisk, and chill another 20–30 minutes. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of milk until it’s just right.
  6. Serve and top: Spoon into bowls or jars and add your favorite toppings. Fresh berries and a little extra lemon zest are especially good here.