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Vanilla Greek Yogurt Chia Pudding Overnight - Creamy, Simple, and Satisfying

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole milk for the creamiest texture; nonfat works too)
  • Milk (dairy or unsweetened almond, oat, or coconut milk)
  • Chia seeds (black or white)
  • Pure vanilla extract
  • Sweetener (maple syrup, honey, agave, or your preferred sweetener)
  • Pinch of salt (optional, but enhances flavor)
  • Toppings (optional): berries, sliced banana, granola, chopped nuts, nut butter, shredded coconut, cinnamon

Method
 

  1. Measure your base: In a medium bowl or large jar, add 1 cup plain Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup milk. Stir until smooth. Using a jar with a lid makes storage easy.
  2. Add flavor: Stir in 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract and 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey. Start with the lower amount of sweetener; you can add more later if needed.
  3. Season it: Add a tiny pinch of salt. It won’t make it salty—it just rounds out the sweetness and boosts the vanilla.
  4. Stir in chia seeds: Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons chia seeds while stirring constantly to prevent clumps. Mix for 20 to 30 seconds to evenly distribute.
  5. Let it thicken briefly: After 5 to 10 minutes, stir again. This second stir breaks up any seeds that started clumping and ensures a smooth, even set.
  6. Chill overnight: Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and create a thick, pudding-like texture.
  7. Check the consistency: In the morning, give it a stir. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk and mix. If it’s too loose, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon more chia, stir, and chill 10 to 15 minutes.
  8. Top and serve: Add fresh berries, sliced banana, a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter, a drizzle of honey, a handful of granola, or a dusting of cinnamon. Enjoy cold.