Chia seed pudding is one of the most popular breakfast items on the First Watch cafe menu, loved for its tapioca-like texture and nutritional profile. The star ingredient – chia seeds – are packed with nutrients like protein, fiber, omega-3s, calcium, antioxidants, and more. When soaked in liquid, the seeds plump up and create a delicious, gelatinous pudding perfect for breakfast or a snack.
This easy copycat First Watch Chia Seed Pudding Recipe only requires a few simple ingredients you likely have on hand – chia seeds, milk of choice, and desired toppings. In just 5 minutes prep time and a few hours in the refrigerator, you can whip up a healthy, satiating breakfast the whole family will love. Read on for the full recipe details and tips for making perfect chia seed pudding every time!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chia Pudding Recipe
There are so many reasons to get excited about this simple chia seed pudding recipe:
It’s customizable: Feel free to play around with different milk varieties, sweeteners, extracts, and toppings to suit your tastes.
It’s packed with nutrition: Just one serving provides a big boost of protein, fiber, omega-3s, and more.
It’s vegan and dairy-free: The pudding can be made with any non-dairy milk like almond, soy, coconut.
It’s satisfying: The pudding will keep you full for hours thanks to the fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
It’s versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack any time of day.
It’s budget-friendly: Chia seeds offer a huge bang for your buck nutrition-wise.
It’s hard to mess up: As long as you stick to the ratio, it turns out great every time.
How To Make First Watch Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
Making chia seed pudding from scratch is simple and rewarding. With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up the perfect creamy, dreamy texture.
Let’s learn how to make this dish and what you will need step by step:
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Chia Seeds
- 1 1⁄2 Cups Coconut Milk
Toppings:
- 2-3 Tbsp Blackberry Jam/Jelly
- Granola
- 1 Banana, sliced
- 1 Strawberry, chopped
- Handful of Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries
Tools
- Saucepan
- Masher or Spoon
- Glass Bowl
- Knife
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1. Combine with Chia Seed and Milk
First, add the chia seed and milk to the saucepan and heat it to medium heat. Keep stirring to prevent them from sticking.
Step 2. Additional Milk mix and Refrigeration
Add more milk and keep stirring on medium heat. Remove it from the medium heat and keep it in the refrigerator.
Step 3. Transfer in the glass bowl
Put chia seed Pudding in a glass bowl and fill it halfway.
Step 4. Spread Jelly
Mash the jelly for easy spread. Now, spread it in a glass bowl.
Step 5. For Garnish
Garnish with Granola, Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, and Blueberries (as needed) in a glass bowl.
Step 6. Serve
Serve with peanut butter jam, and enjoy.
Tips for Smooth and Creamy Chia Pudding
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest consistency
- Let the chia seeds soak for at least 2 hours, or overnight
- Stir vigorously to break up any clumps before serving
- Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency
Chia Pudding Substitutions and Additions
One of the great things about First Watch Chia Seed Pudding Recipe is how easy it is to customize to your tastes. Try these substitutions and additions:
Dairy Milk or Yogurt: Instead of coconut milk, try dairy milk like almond milk or low-fat milk. Plain Greek yogurt also works.
Different Chia Flavors: Add vanilla, almond, coconut or chocolate protein powder or extracts.
More Fiber: Mix in flax or hemp seeds for extra fiber.
Crunchy Texture: Add slivered almonds, chopped walnuts or pistachios.
Dried Fruit: Mix in raisins, dried cranberries, chopped dates or apricots for chewy texture.
Spices: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom or ginger for extra flavor.
Sweeteners: A touch of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar balances the tang of the fruit.
Chia Pudding Serving Suggestions
First Watch Chia Seed Pudding Recipe makes a healthy, protein-packed breakfast but can also be enjoyed as a snack or light dessert any time of day. Here are serving ideas:
Breakfast parfait – Layer chia pudding with yogurt, granola and fresh fruit in a mason jar or parfait cup.
Overnight oats – Combine the chia pudding right in with your overnight oats mixture.
Smoothie boost – Add a spoonful of chia pudding to your smoothie for extra nutrition and thickness.
Healthy dessert – Top chia pudding with roasted fruit, chocolate shavings and whipped coconut cream for a lower-sugar dessert.
Snack pot – Bring chia pudding on-the-go in portable containers paired with cut-up fruit and nuts.
Stuffed fruit – Spoon chia pudding into hollowed out fresh fruit like oranges, apricots, plums or bananas.
How to Store Chia Pudding
One of the bonuses of homemade chia pudding is that it stores easily in the fridge:
Short-term storage: Chia pudding will keep fresh in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-5 days.
Long-term storage: For longer storage, chia pudding can be frozen for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Storage tips: To maintain texture over time, pack chia pudding in airtight containers with minimal air exposure. Stir well before serving to redistribute moisture.
Reheating: Chia pudding is best served chilled. You can heat it briefly to take off the fridge chill, but avoid boiling temperatures.
Add fresh toppings: Fruit, chopped nuts and crunchy granola make great fresh toppings right before eating reheated chia pudding.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chia Pudding
Chia pudding is having a major moment. Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying this hot breakfast trend:
What are the health benefits of chia pudding?
Chia seeds offer a nutritional powerhouse! They are packed with fiber, protein, omega-3s and minerals like iron, calcium and magnesium. The coconut milk adds healthy fats. Together, they make a balanced, nutrient-dense meal.
Do chia seeds need to be soaked before making pudding?
Yes, soaking the chia seeds is essential to allow them to absorb moisture and take on a tapioca-like texture. Soak for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best.
Can chia pudding be made without coconut milk?
Yes, any dairy or non-dairy milk can be used instead of coconut milk. Or try substituting plain yogurt or kefir. The results may not be quite as creamy, however.
How long does homemade chia pudding last in the fridge?
Chia pudding will keep for 3-5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Top with fresh fruit just before serving.
Can I make chia pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make a big batch on your day off. Portion into individual containers. Then grab and go for an easy breakfast all week.
What can I mix into chia pudding?
Chia pudding is endlessly adaptable. Mix in cocoa powder, nut butters, protein powder, dried fruit, nuts, coconut, spices and extracts for creative flavors.
First Watch Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
This easy First Watch chia pudding recipe uses chia seeds, coconut milk, and fresh fruit for a protein-rich, tropical treat. The perfect make-ahead breakfast!
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Chia Seeds
- 1 1⁄2 Cups Coconut Milk
Toppings:
- 2-3 Tbsp Blackberry Jam/Jelly
- Granola
- 1 Banana, sliced
- 1 Strawberry, chopped
- Handful of Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries
Instructions
- Combine with Chia Seed and Milk: First, add the chia seed and milk to the saucepan and heat it to medium heat. Keep stirring to prevent them from sticking.
- Additional Milk mix and Refrigeration: Add more milk and keep stirring on medium heat. Remove it from the medium heat and keep it in the refrigerator.
- Transfer in the glass bowl: Put chia seed Pudding in a glass bowl and fill it halfway.
- Spread Jelly: Mash the jelly for easy spread. Now, spread it in a glass bowl.
- For Garnish: Garnish with Granola, Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, and Blueberries (as needed) in a glass bowl.
- Serve: Serve with peanut butter jam, and enjoy.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 380Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 80mgCarbohydrates: 42gFiber: 18gSugar: 13gProtein: 10g
Conclusion
This simple, First Watch Chia Seed Pudding Recipe is a breeze to whip up at home. Chia seeds, coconut milk and fresh fruit toppings come together to make a protein- and antioxidant-rich breakfast, snack or light dessert.
Customize your own chia pudding creation with seasonal fruit, crunchy toppings and spice mix-ins. Make ahead for grab-and-go convenience. Each spoonful provides a boost of nutrition to power your day in a delicious way.
