Pin Recipe A creamy, wholesome pudding layered with fresh apple and rich peanut butter, this Apple–Chia Pudding is perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a nutritious treat any time.
I first made this pudding when I needed a portable, energizing breakfast before work. Since then, it's become a favorite in our home for its creamy texture and fresh apple flavor—my kids especially love the peanut butter swirl.
Ingredients
- Pudding Base: 2 cups (480 ml) unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice), 1/2 cup (80 g) chia seeds, 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Apple Layer: 2 medium apples peeled, cored, and diced, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Peanut Butter Swirl: 4 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- Garnish (optional): 2 tbsp chopped roasted peanuts, apple slices, a drizzle of maple syrup
Instructions
- Make Pudding Base:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Let sit for 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until thickened.
- Prepare Apple Layer:
- In a small bowl, toss diced apples with lemon juice and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Layer Pudding:
- When ready to serve, stir the chia pudding well. Spoon a layer of pudding into serving glasses or bowls, add a layer of apple mixture, then swirl in 1 tablespoon of peanut butter per serving. Repeat layers if desired.
- Add Garnish:
- Top with chopped peanuts, apple slices, and a drizzle of maple syrup if using.
Pin Recipe Our Saturday mornings now start with laughter around the table and chilled jars of chia pudding. Grandma always adds extra apple slices for crunch and says it's her new favorite treat!
Recipe Variations
Instead of apples, try layering with pears or berries for different flavors. Using coconut milk as the base makes it exceptionally creamy.
Allergen Information
Contains peanuts if using peanut butter and tree nuts if using almond milk. Always check that ingredients are labeled gluten-free as needed. For nut allergies, select safe alternatives for any nut ingredients.
Required Tools
You will need mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring cups and spoons, plus serving glasses or bowls for assembly.
Pin Recipe Serve immediately after layering, or prep ahead for busy mornings. The apple–chia combination delivers both crunch and creaminess in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should the chia mixture chill?
Let the chia and almond milk mixture chill for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best thickened texture.
- → Can I substitute peanut butter?
Yes, sunflower seed butter works well as a nut-free alternative to peanut butter for the swirl.
- → What fruits can replace apples?
Pears or berries make excellent alternatives for the fruit layer to vary the flavor.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, ensure all ingredients including almond milk and sweeteners are labeled gluten-free to maintain suitability.
- → How can I make it creamier?
Using coconut milk instead of almond milk enhances the creaminess of the pudding base.
- → How long does it keep fresh?
This dish keeps well when chilled for up to 3 days, maintaining flavor and texture.