Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic dessert that brings a refreshing and healthy spin to your table. Imagine indulging in the comforting flavors of strawberry shortcake, but in a nutritious, easy-to-make pudding form! This recipe has become a favorite among health enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike, blending the luscious sweetness of ripe strawberries with the creamy texture of chia pudding. Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding not only satisfies your sweet tooth but does so without the guilt, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. It’s the perfect solution for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a delightful dessert that everyone will love.
What Is Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding
Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding is a layered, no-bake dessert that features the delightful combination of chia seeds soaked in creamy almond milk, layered with fresh strawberries, and topped with a dollop of whipped coconut cream. The texture is a beautiful balance between the slight crunch of chia seeds and the soft, juicy sweetness of strawberries. Unlike traditional shortcake, which can be heavy and laden with sugar, this dish is light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect guilt-free indulgence.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to prepare in just a few minutes.
- Perfect for meal prep—make it ahead of time for busy mornings!
- Family-friendly and customizable with your favorite fruits.
- Deliciously healthy, packed with fiber and omega-3s.
How Does It Taste?
This wonderful pudding bursts with vibrant flavors, starting with the natural sweetness of strawberries that perfectly complements the creamy, mildly nutty chia pudding base. Each spoonful is a delightful experience, combining the smoothness of the pudding with the juicy texture of the strawberries. As you enjoy this treat, the subtle hint of vanilla adds an aromatic touch, making every bite feel like a celebration of summer.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
Key ingredients in Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding include:
- Chia Seeds: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, they help promote digestive health and keep you feeling full.
- Almond Milk: A low-calorie, dairy-free alternative that’s rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Strawberries: Loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, they support your immune system and add natural sweetness.
- Coconut Cream: Provides a luscious, creamy texture while being dairy-free and a source of healthy fats.
With all these benefits combined, Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding is not just a treat; it’s a wholesome choice that you can feel good about indulging in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup almond milk – This dairy-free milk provides a creamy base for the pudding.
- 1/4 cup chia seeds – These tiny seeds are the star of the dish, providing that signature pudding texture.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances flavor and adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – This adds warmth and depth to the pudding.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries – The main fruit component, offering freshness and vibrant flavor.
- 1/2 cup whipped coconut cream – For a luscious topping that mimics the whipped cream typically found on shortcake.
- 1/4 cup granola (optional) – Adds a delightful crunch and extra texture to each serving.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – For combining the chia pudding ingredients.
- Whisk – Essential for blending the chia seeds with the almond milk and other ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate measurements for the best results.
- Refrigerator – Necessary for chilling the pudding until it’s set.
- Serving glasses or bowls – For presenting your delicious pudding.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Milk alternatives – You can use any plant-based milk like oat or soy milk if almond milk isn’t your preference.
- Sweeteners – Honey or agave syrup can be substituted for maple syrup, depending on your taste.
- Additional fruits – Feel free to add other berries or fruits such as blueberries or bananas for extra flavor.
- Flavor variations – A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring a warm spice element to the pudding.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding
Step 1: Prepare the Chia Pudding Base
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of almond milk, 1/4 cup of chia seeds, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix everything together thoroughly. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is well blended without any clumps of chia seeds.
Step 2: Let It Set
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and expand, creating a thick, pudding-like consistency. You’ll notice the mixture becoming gel-like as it sits.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberries
While the pudding is setting, wash and slice 1 cup of fresh strawberries. If you want a bit of extra sweetness, you can toss them with a teaspoon of sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes to create a juicy topping.
Step 4: Assemble the Pudding
Once the pudding has set, give it a good stir to break up any clumps. In serving glasses or bowls, layer the chia pudding with the sliced strawberries. Start with a layer of pudding, followed by a layer of strawberries, and repeat until all ingredients are used up.
Step 5: Top It Off
Spoon some whipped coconut cream on top of each serving. If you like, sprinkle some granola for added crunch. This final touch not only looks beautiful but also adds texture to your dessert!
What to Serve With
This Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding pairs wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or iced coffee. For a light breakfast, consider serving it alongside a fruit salad or yogurt for a well-rounded meal. It also works great as a dessert after a summer barbecue.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to whisk the chia pudding thoroughly to prevent clumps. A good mix ensures even gelation.
- Let the pudding sit overnight for the best texture. The longer it sits, the creamier it becomes.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can be used but will yield a different texture.
- Adjust the sweetness according to your taste; feel free to add more maple syrup if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not mixing the chia seeds properly can lead to clumps in your pudding. Always ensure a thorough mix!
- Using old or overripe strawberries can affect the overall taste. Freshness is key.
- Skipping the chilling step will result in a runny pudding instead of the desired thick texture.
- Over-sweetening can overpower the natural flavors of the strawberries; taste as you go!
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store any leftover chia pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The pudding tends to get thicker over time, so you can stir in a bit more almond milk before serving if it becomes too stiff.
Reheating
While you typically enjoy chia pudding cold, if you prefer it warm, you can gently heat it in the microwave. Just be sure to do so in short intervals and stir frequently to avoid overheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this pudding in advance? Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep and can be made up to 5 days in advance.
- Is this recipe vegan? Absolutely! All ingredients used are plant-based.
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but they may release more liquid, so be prepared for a slightly different texture.
- How can I make it more nutritious? Consider adding a scoop of protein powder or some flaxseed for an extra health boost!
Nutritional Info
This Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding is approximately 200 calories per serving, with about 7g of protein, 10g of fat, and 24g of carbohydrates. It’s a wholesome dessert option that’s rich in fiber and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for any time of day!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious dessert that will leave your taste buds dancing, then the Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding is a must-try! This delightful treat combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creamy texture of chia pudding, making it a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs a nutritional punch, thanks to the chia seeds. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast option or a satisfying dessert, the Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding is sure to impress your family and friends. So go ahead, whip up this delightful dish and savor every spoonful—it’s a sweet celebration of flavors that you won’t want to miss!
Strawberry Shortcake Chia Pudding
A healthy and delicious twist on traditional strawberry shortcake, this chia pudding is light, nutritious, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 can light coconut milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 4 scoops Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides (optional)
- 1 cup raw macadamia nuts
- 1/3 cup shredded coconut
- dash fine sea salt
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
- 3-4 whole strawberries for garnish
Instructions
-
Step 1
In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, almond milk, chia seeds, and collagen peptides (if using). Mix well. -
Step 2
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to thicken. -
Step 3
While setting, prepare strawberries by slicing them. Reserve a few for garnish. -
Step 4
Once pudding is set, layer in serving glasses with sliced strawberries. -
Step 5
Top with whipped coconut cream and garnish with whole strawberries.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.