This Apple Chia Pudding is everything you crave in a fall treat; it's like enjoying a slice of apple pie in a bowl, only it's vegan, gluten free, egg free and completely refined sugar free. Bursting with apples, cinnamon and that cozy classic flavor we all love during apple season, it's a healthy option that works as a snack, breakfast or even a brunch parfait. Best of all, I love that it's a no-bake, homemade recipe that's simple and satisfying.
Thick, creamy and slightly sweetened, this pudding is a great balance of comforting flavors and fun crunch. It's a diverse dish you can dress up to feel fancy for dessert or keep it simple for an everyday snack. It's great whethwer you're looking for something super festive to celebrate autumn with or just a delicious, wholesome option you can make ahead. If you love chia pudding, be sure to also try my favorite Chia Parfait, Chia and Flaxseed Pudding and Pomegranate Chia Pudding. Also, here's a round up of my Gluten Free Fall Desserts, too!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
I love that it can come together with just a few wholesome ingredients and almost no effort. So simple!
Stir it, chill it and let the fridge do the work while you get on with your day. It's so easy, honestly.
Fresh apples go perfectly with the light, nutty taste of chia seeds.
Packed with fiber, protein and omega-3s, it keeps me fueled and satisfied.
Add spices, nut butter or different toppings to make it your own.
Make a few jars at once for ready-to-grab breakfasts or snacks all week long.
Creamy, lightly sweet and fun to top with fruit or granola, I feel like everyone I've made this for loves it.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, I used a storage container, a whisk and a pan.
Ingredients Needed
Milk: You can use absolutely any milk you like. Regular milk if you aren't dairy free or your favorite plant-based milk.
Chia seeds: Chia seeds are such a powerhouse and my favorite way to eat them is in chia seed pudding!
Apple: Red or green apples both work.
Cinnamon: For that fall flavor that we can't get enough of right now!
Avocado oil: This is a great neutral-flavored oil that isn't too strong tasting with the apple.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather your ingredients to make your apple chia pudding.
Step 2: Add the milk and chia seeds to a container and whisk them together. Let sit overnight to thicken.
Step 3: Chop the apples, coat with cinnamon and saute in an oiled pan until lightly golden brown.
Step 4: Top the chia seed pudding with mixture and enjoy!
Storage
Your apple chia pudding will keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. I prefer to keep my apple topping and chia seed pudding separate and top it just before eating.
You can also freeze the chia seed pudding in a freezer friendly container for up to 3 months. It will thaw out perfectly overnight in the refrigerator.
Variations
Swirl in a spoonful of caramel sauce and finish with thinly sliced apples. This makes it more of a dessert if that's what you're after. You can also sweeten it with maple syrup.
Infuse with chai spices (cardamom, ginger, cloves) and vanilla for a more spiced up version.
Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter (or almond butter) for extra protein.
Mix in dried cranberries or a spoonful of cranberry sauce. This is a fun option for the holidays.
Use coconut milk as the base and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top.
Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the mix for a filling, high-protein breakfast.
How To Serve
Here's how I love to enjoy my Apple Chia Pudding recipe:
- As a ready-to-go and great make ahead breakfast with coffee or matcha.
- Warm or cold; both are so good. Also, with the chia pudding chilled from the fridge but the apple topping warm from the pan.
- In parfaits, layered with other ingredients like fruit and granola.
- As part of my meal prep!
- In the afternoon, when I need an in-between-meals snack.
- As an easy dessert or evening treat.
Recipe FAQ
Can I add the apples in the night before?
Yes, you can mix the apples in ahead of time; they'll soften a little and add extra flavor to the pudding.
Does chia pudding have to thicken overnight?
Overnight is best for the creamiest texture, but chia pudding can start to thicken in as little as 2-3 hours.
What ratio of liquid should I use?
A good rule of thumb is 3-4 tablespoons of chia seeds per 1 cup of liquid. Adjust slightly depending on how thick you like it.
What other toppings can I add to this?
Try granola, nuts, nut butter, dried fruit, shredded coconut or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes; if you use a plant-based milk (like almond, oat or coconut milk), this chia pudding is completely vegan.
Why are chia seeds good for you?
They're packed with fiber, plant-based protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
What other spices can I add?
Cinnamon goes well with apple, but you can also add nutmeg, ginger, allspice or pumpkin spice.
Can I meal prep this chia pudding?
Absolutely! Make a batch, portion it into jars, and store in the fridge for 4-5 days for easy grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.
Related Recipes
Be sure to try these fall recipe ideas next:
Pumpkin Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
If you make this Apple Chia Pudding and love it, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or TikTok.
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Apple Chia Pudding
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 apple
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- Avocado oil
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients.
- Combine milk and chia seeds in a container and whisk. Let sit overnight to thicken.
- Chop apples, coat with cinnamon and saute in an oiled pan until lightly browned.
- Top chia pudding with mixture and enjoy!
Lauren