This creamy and spiced chia pudding is a nourishing twist on a cozy favorite, infused with the warm flavors of chai and topped with coconut yogurt, almond butter, and crushed pistachios. Perfect for make-ahead breakfasts or wholesome desserts, this layered jar offers both comfort and clean nutrition in every spoonful. Dairy-free, naturally sweetened, and brimming with texture, it’s an ideal balance of indulgence and health.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chia pudding transforms simple pantry staples into a luxurious, warming treat. The chai spice blend evokes a sense of comfort, while the creamy chia texture pairs perfectly with tangy coconut yogurt and the nutty richness of almond butter. Crushed pistachios add a pleasant crunch, making it both satisfying and visually appealing. Best of all, it can be made in advance, making your mornings easier and tastier.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- chia seeds
- unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- vanilla extract
- maple syrup (optional)
- ground cinnamon
- ground cardamom
- ground ginger
- nutmeg
Toppings:
- coconut yogurt
- almond butter
- crushed pistachios
- cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the chai base: In a mixing bowl or large jar, whisk together almond milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup (if using), and all the chai spices—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and nutmeg—until fully combined.
- Add chia seeds: Stir in the chia seeds thoroughly. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until the pudding thickens and becomes creamy.
- Assemble: When ready to serve, spoon the thickened chia pudding into jars or bowls.
- Add toppings: Layer with a generous spoonful of coconut yogurt and a dollop of almond butter.
- Finish: Sprinkle with crushed pistachios and garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy chilled, straight from the jar.
Servings and timing
Servings: Serves 2
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours or overnight
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Sweetener alternatives: Swap maple syrup with honey, agave, or date syrup.
- Different yogurt: Use Greek yogurt or another plant-based alternative.
- Spice adjustments: Tailor the spice mix to your preference—add cloves or allspice for a deeper chai profile.
- Nut-free: Replace almond butter and pistachios with sunflower seed butter and pumpkin seeds.
- Fruit topping: Add sliced banana, poached pear, or chopped figs for a fruity layer.
storage/reheating
Chai-spiced chia pudding stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container or jar.
- To store: Keep components layered or store the pudding separately from the toppings for the best texture.
- To serve: No reheating is necessary—serve chilled. Stir before eating if the mixture has thickened further.
Avoid freezing, as the texture may become grainy once thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this chia pudding the night before?
Yes, it’s ideal for overnight preparation. The flavors deepen and the texture improves after resting.
What milk works best for this recipe?
Unsweetened almond milk keeps it light and dairy-free, but oat, coconut, or dairy milk work well too.
How do I keep the chia seeds from clumping?
Stir the mixture thoroughly after 5 minutes and again before refrigerating to ensure even distribution.
Can I omit the spices if I don’t like chai?
Yes, you can reduce or omit spices and flavor the pudding with just vanilla or a different blend like cocoa or citrus zest.
What does coconut yogurt add to the recipe?
Coconut yogurt adds tang, creaminess, and subtle tropical flavor, enhancing the richness of the chia pudding.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, when using plant-based milk and yogurt, this recipe is completely vegan.
What are good substitutes for pistachios?
Try chopped almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or toasted coconut flakes.
Can I blend the pudding for a smoother texture?
Yes, blending after chilling results in a smoother, more uniform texture, similar to traditional pudding.
How long will it keep in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 4 days when properly stored in an airtight container.
Can I use store-bought chai concentrate?
It’s best to use the spice blend for control over sweetness and intensity, but a small amount of unsweetened chai concentrate can work in place of the spices.
Conclusion
Chai-Spiced Chia Pudding with Coconut Yogurt & Pistachio Crunch is a nourishing and comforting recipe that brings the aromatic essence of chai to a modern, health-conscious dish. With its creamy texture, rich spices, and balanced toppings, it offers a delightful start to any day or a wholesome way to end a meal. Simple to prepare and easy to adapt, it’s a smart choice for busy mornings or mindful eating.
Print
Chai-Spiced Chia Pudding with Coconut Yogurt & Pistachio Crunch
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty and flavorful breakfast bagel sandwich filled with creamy scrambled eggs, seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and avocado. Perfect for a satisfying morning meal packed with protein and texture.
Ingredients
- 2 everything bagels, sliced and toasted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1/2 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast (seasoned or plain)
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 4 tomato slices
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or cream cheese (optional spread)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk the eggs with milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
- Heat butter or oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Scramble the eggs until just set and fluffy, then set aside.
- If needed, warm or sauté the shredded chicken until hot.
- Toast the bagels and spread mayonnaise or cream cheese on the bottom halves.
- Layer scrambled eggs, chicken, tomato slices, onion, avocado, and shredded lettuce onto each bottom bagel half.
- Top with the other bagel halves and press gently to hold together.
- Serve warm with a side of fruit or greens, if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
- Swap everything bagels for whole wheat or plain as desired.
- Add cheese or hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Great for meal prep—assemble just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 260mg
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