Description
This refreshing Lemon Chia Seed Pudding combines creamy coconut milk with tart lemon juice and zest, sweetened naturally with maple syrup or honey. The chia seeds absorb the flavors and create a smooth, creamy texture that makes for a healthy, vibrant dessert or breakfast option. It’s easy to prepare, requires no cooking, and can be customized with toppings like fresh berries and coconut flakes.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups full-fat coconut milk (from a can, well stirred)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional: 1/16 teaspoon ground turmeric (for natural yellow tone)
- Optional: 1–2 drops yellow gel food coloring (for enhanced vibrancy)
Chia Seeds
- ½ cup chia seeds
Suggested Toppings
- Extra lemon zest curls
- Coconut flakes
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream or coconut yogurt
Instructions
- Whisk the Base Together: In a mixing bowl or large jar, whisk the coconut milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, sea salt, and turmeric (if using) until fully combined and smooth. If adding gel food coloring, whisk it in until evenly blended.
- Add the Chia Seeds: Stir in the chia seeds thoroughly to distribute them evenly. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping as the seeds begin to absorb the liquid.
- Chill to Set: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight. The pudding will thicken as the chia seeds expand and form a creamy, spoonable texture.
- Stir and Serve: Give the chilled pudding a final stir to ensure even consistency. Spoon into serving jars or bowls and add your favorite toppings, such as lemon zest curls, coconut flakes, or fresh fruit.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup or honey based on your preference.
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- The optional turmeric adds a natural yellow tint without altering the flavor significantly.
- To avoid chia seed clumps, make sure to stir the mixture well after 5 minutes of sitting.
- Chilling overnight improves texture and flavor infusion.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright, fresh flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: lemon chia pudding, chia seed dessert, vegan pudding, healthy dessert, coconut milk pudding, no cook pudding
