Fruity Chia Parfaits
A make-ahead breakfast or snack you’ll actually look forward to.
Now, some of you may be wary of the word chia, but don’t be. Mixed with milk or yogurt and given a little time, chia softens into something creamy and spoonable — more pudding than anything else.
Once you get the hang of it, you’ll see why it works any time of day — as a protein-packed breakfast, a filling snack, or even dessert on those long winter nights in front of the TV when we aren’t eating chocolate.
It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and surprisingly satisfying.
Let’s pause for the obvious question: what does chia pudding taste like, anyway?
On its own, chia is very mild — almost neutral, like oatmeal. It takes on the flavor of whatever you mix it with, which in this case is fresh berries, granola, almond milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a little bit of sweetness from maple syrup.
Plus, it’s almost embarrassingly easy — and no cooking required.
Stir everything together, park it in the fridge, and it’s there when you want something substantial without being heavy — and it keeps for several days.
So give this one a try. Chia seeds are easy to find in most grocery stores or online, and it doesn’t matter whether you use white or black.
This recipe is flexible, too — swap in pistachios, sliced almonds, and whatever nuts or berries you have on hand.
Thanks for reading — hope this one earns a spot in your regular rotation.
FRUITY CHIA PARFAITS
4 Servings
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 cups almond milk (I like vanilla unsweetened)
1 tablespoon plus one teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon plus one teaspoon maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but very good)
1/2 cup granola (use a little more if you’d like)
1/2 cup fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries and blackberries
Fresh mint sprigs, optional
Directions:
In a medium bowl, combine the chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Stir well with a fork to break up any clumps.
Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, then stir again. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
To assemble the parfaits, remove the chia pudding from the refrigerator and stir once more. Spoon a heaping tablespoon into each of four small glasses or jars, followed by a heaping teaspoon of granola and a few berries. Repeat to create a second layer, then garnish with fresh mint, if desired.