Warm Chia Pudding

Name: Warm Chia Pudding
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups milk (more if needed); 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1-1½ tsp cinnamon; ½ cup chia seeds

Jump to Recipe - Print Recipe

Made with pantry staples in less than 30 minutes, this creamy warm chia pudding is a nutrient-packed healthy breakfast. You only need five ingredients to make this cozy, hearty, and comforting breakfast! It is super easy to make, and you can even make it as a snack or dessert.

Packed with flavor, fiber, and antioxidants, this warm chia pudding is thick, creamy, and the perfect way to start off your morning. While I love my chia puddings, sometimes, especially in the winter, I wake up craving something warm and cozy, so this warm chia pudding is a nice change in pace.

Overhead view of a bowl of warm chia pudding with blueberries and chopped almonds on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The consistency of this warm chia pudding is like a delicious creamy dessert pudding. Who doesn’t want a dessert that’s healthy? Especially in the morning ;)
You only need five ingredients! I love recipes that use simple ingredients, as there’s a good chance I already have some on hand and can whip it up without having to run to the store.
Chia pudding is a nutritious meal as it’s rich in minerals, omega-3 fat, antioxidants, and fiber. It’ll also keep you feeling satiated until your next meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients needed to make warm chia pudding.

milk — you can use any milk of your choice, from cow’s milk to non-dairy milk. I personally prefer whole milk, but it’s up to you!
vanilla extract — I always recommend using real vanilla extract and not artificial extract. Don’t have any? Skip it! No biggie.
chia seeds — you can buy them at almost any major grocery store. They come in both black and white seeds, but there is no difference in nutritional content. They’re also an excellent source of plant-based protein!
maple syrup — you can also use honey if you prefer. Just make sure you’re using real maple syrup and not pancake syrup.
cinnamon — just a pinch for a cozy flavor.

How to Make Warm Chia Pudding

Set of two photos showing chia pudding ingredients whisked together in a pot.

In a small saucepan, add milk, vanilla, maple syrup, cinnamon, and chia seeds and whisk to combine.
Set aside for 15 to 20 minutes to thicken.

Set of two photos showing chia pudding in a pot thickening.

Once thickened, place the saucepan on the stovetop over medium-high heat and stir continuously to warm throughout and thicken into a pudding consistency.
Remove from heat and serve with your favorite toppings, such as yogurt, fruit, nuts, and/or seeds.

Overhead view of a bowl of warm chia pudding with a spoon and honey, blueberries, and almonds on top.

Recipe Tips and Notes

You can easily make this warm chia seed pudding vegan-friendly by using non-dairy milk.
For an even thicker pudding, you can add an extra spoonful of chia seeds to the mixture.
For a fruity flavor, stir in some frozen or fresh fruit as you warm the chia pudding on the stovetop.
If you’re a fan of chocolate, whisk in 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw cacao powder with the chia seeds at the beginning.
If you prefer a sweeter warm chia pudding, add more maple syrup.
Instead of cinnamon, you can use apple pie spice for a cozier apple pie flavor.
A drizzle of almond or nut butter on top of the chia pudding will add extra flavor and healthy fats.

Make Ahead Tips

Meal prep: once cooled, store the chia pudding in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Reheat: to reheat, gently simmer on the stovetop or microwave in short bursts. You might need to add 2-3 tablespoons of milk (or water) when you reheat the pudding, as the chia pudding will continue to thicken as it sits in the fridge.
Freezer: to freeze chia pudding, portion out the pudding in small containers, then freeze! Thaw the chia pudding in the fridge for 6-8 hours/overnight before you’d like to eat it. You can store chia seed pudding in the freezer for up to 2 months.

A bowl of warm chia pudding with a spoonful being lifted out.

What are chia seeds?

Chia seeds are tiny seeds from the plant Salvia hispanica. You may recognize them from those cute little chia pet commercials from way back when but other than a cute terra-cotta pet, the seeds are packed with healthy goodness. Despite being tiny little seeds, an one-ounce (28 grams) serving of chia seeds contains 11 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, and 9 grams of fat (5 of which are omega-3s). They also last for up to 2 years when stored correctly (in a cool, dry, and dark place).

What is the texture of chia pudding?

This warm chia pudding is thick and creamy.

Click here to sign up for emails and updates PLUS a free downloadable shopping list and recipes for one week’s meal prep (lunches and snacks).