As the sun begins to warm the days, I find myself craving something light and refreshing. That’s when I turn to my favorite dessert: Lemon Cream Chia Pudding. This delightful treat is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and creamy textures. The first time I made this pudding, the aroma of fresh lemon zest filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. With each spoonful, the tangy lemon dances on my palate, perfectly balanced by the creamy chia base. It’s a dessert that brings joy to my family and friends, making it a staple in our home.

What is Lemon Cream Chia Pudding?

Lemon Cream Chia Pudding is a delightful dessert that marries the nutritional powerhouse of chia seeds with the zesty brightness of lemon. This recipe draws inspiration from the growing popularity of chia-based dishes, which have roots in various cultures that celebrate healthful eating. The pudding is not only vegan but also incredibly versatile, making it a favorite among those seeking a light yet satisfying treat. With its creamy texture and refreshing flavor, it’s a perfect way to enjoy a guilt-free dessert that nourishes the body and delights the senses.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Chia Pudding

Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Bright, tangy flavor that invigorates your taste buds.
Nutrient-dense, offering a healthy alternative to traditional desserts.
Family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Who It’s For

This recipe is perfect for busy families looking for a quick and nutritious dessert, health-conscious cooks wanting to indulge without guilt, and food lovers eager to explore fresh, globally inspired flavors.

When to Cook It

Enjoy Lemon Cream Chia Pudding as a light dessert after weeknight dinners, a refreshing snack on warm afternoons, or even as a sweet addition to brunch gatherings with friends and family.

1 cup almond milk: A creamy base that keeps the pudding dairy-free. You can substitute with coconut milk or oat milk for a different flavor.
1/4 cup chia seeds: These tiny seeds are the star of the show, providing texture and nutrition. Flaxseeds can be used as an alternative, but they will change the flavor slightly.
1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
2 tablespoons maple syrup: This natural sweetener balances the tartness of the lemon. Agave syrup or date syrup can be used as substitutes.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile. Feel free to use almond extract for a unique twist.
Zest of 1 lemon: Adds an aromatic citrus note that elevates the pudding. You can use lime zest for a different citrus flavor.

In a medium bowl, combine the chia seeds and almond milk. Stir well to ensure the seeds are evenly distributed.
Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and start to swell.
Add the lemon juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the chia mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. This chilling time allows the pudding to thicken.
Once set, give the pudding a good stir to break up any clumps. Serve in bowls or jars, and garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.

Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for those monitoring sugar intake.
Monk fruit: Another calorie-free option that provides sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels.
Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that tastes like sugar but has minimal impact on blood glucose.
It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup, as they can spike blood sugar levels despite being natural sweeteners.

Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Plastic wrap or lid for covering
Refrigerator for chilling
Serving bowls or jars

Use Fresh Ingredients: Chef Jamie Oliver emphasizes the importance of using fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish and enhance its overall taste.
Experiment with Flavors: Renowned pastry chef Dominique Ansel suggests adding a hint of lavender or mint to the pudding for a unique twist. These herbs can complement the lemon beautifully.
Perfect the Texture: Chef Thomas Keller recommends letting the chia pudding sit overnight. This allows the seeds to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in a creamier texture.
Presentation Matters: Food stylist and chef Alice Waters advises serving the pudding in clear jars or bowls to showcase its beautiful layers. A sprinkle of fresh berries on top adds color and freshness.
Adjust Sweetness: Chef Ina Garten suggests tasting the mixture before refrigerating. Adjust the sweetness to your preference, as the flavors will intensify as it sets.

Refrigeration: Store Lemon Cream Chia Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy.
Freezing: While not recommended for long-term storage, you can freeze the pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating: This pudding is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Add fresh fruits or a drizzle of honey just before serving to enhance flavor and freshness.

Not letting it sit long enough: Chia seeds need time to absorb liquid and expand. Skipping the chilling time can result in a runny pudding.
Using bottled lemon juice: While convenient, bottled lemon juice lacks the fresh flavor of freshly squeezed juice. Always opt for fresh lemons for the best taste.
Over-sweetening: It’s easy to add too much sweetener. Start with less and adjust to your taste after mixing, as flavors intensify when chilled.
Ignoring the zest: Lemon zest adds a vibrant aroma and flavor. Skipping it can make your pudding taste flat and less exciting.
Not stirring before serving: Chia seeds can settle at the bottom. Give the pudding a good stir before serving to ensure an even texture.

Can I use other types of milk for Lemon Cream Chia Pudding? Yes, you can substitute almond milk with coconut milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk of your choice.
Is Lemon Cream Chia Pudding suitable for a vegan diet? Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan, making it a great option for those following a plant-based lifestyle.
Can I make Lemon Cream Chia Pudding ahead of time? Yes, it’s best to prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and the chia seeds to fully expand.
Does Lemon Cream Chia Pudding need to be refrigerated? Yes, it should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its texture and freshness.
Can I add other flavors to Lemon Cream Chia Pudding? It depends; you can experiment with different extracts or spices, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to create unique flavor combinations.

Lemon Cream Chia Pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that brings a burst of flavor and nutrition to your table. I hope you enjoy making this refreshing treat as much as I do! If you try this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments below or tag me on social media. I’d love to see your creations and hear how you made it your own!

Lemon Cream Chia Pudding

Author: Goldie Clark
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing and creamy dessert made with chia seeds and lemon.

Ingredients

Scale

1/4 cup chia seeds
1 cup almond milk
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

In a bowl, combine chia seeds and almond milk. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Add lemon juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the chia mixture. Stir until well combined.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to expand.
Once set, stir the pudding again and serve in bowls or jars. Garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.

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Notes

For a sweeter pudding, adjust the amount of maple syrup to taste.
This pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Feel free to add fresh fruits on top before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Refrigeration
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 150
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Lemon Cream Chia Pudding