Revive your breakfast routine with this First Watch Chia Pudding Recipe – a Copycat A.M Superfoods Bowl that's a delicious breakfast option and healthy treat. It is a delightful blend of plump chia seeds soaked in rich coconut milk, sweetened with natural maple syrup, and topped with lush berry compote, crunchy granola, and fresh berries. This easy recipe is a nutritious breakfast, perfect for those who love creamy puddings and are looking for a healthy breakfast recipe.
In my house, we're always excited about nutritious and fun recipes that are simple and easy to prepare. We particularly adore this chia seed pudding recipe for its use of clean, natural ingredients and focus on superfoods. It is a popular menu item at First Watch Restaurant- a healthy spot known for its incredible breakfast recipes.
And if you love First Watch, try our copycat Kale Tonic recipe.
Before getting started, I believe in the power of setting healthy intentions. Take a moment to align your thoughts for a mindful eating experience. Check out our free guide on setting intentions and using affirmations.
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Ingredients
Chia Seeds: These tiny yet mighty seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and a great source of fiber, crucial for heart health and maintaining blood sugar levels. Opt for organic black chia seeds.
Coconut Milk: This creamy liquid is not only a key component of this recipe but also a rich source of healthy fats. Choose organic coconut milk to ensure you’re getting the highest quality.
Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener, maple syrup adds a delightful touch to the pudding without spiking your blood sugar levels as quickly as sugar, in small amounts. It’s best to use pure, organic maple syrup for its natural flavor and health benefits. To avoid sugar spikes altogether, consider using monk fruit sweetener!
Granola: Adding a delightful crunch, granola is a great source of fiber. For this recipe, using organic granola ensures you’re adding only the best, most natural ingredients to your bowl.
Berry Compote (Jam): Berry compote or jam adds a sweet, fruit puree layer to the pudding. Opt for an organic version to avoid added sugars and processed ingredients and to enjoy the natural taste of the berries.
Vanilla Extract: A dash of vanilla extract enhances the flavors. Look for pure, organic vanilla extract to avoid processed imitation vanilla!
Fruit for Topping (Strawberries, Bananas, Blueberries): Fresh fruit toppings like strawberries, bananas, and blueberries not only add vibrant colors but are also packed with vitamins. Choose fresh bananas and other organic fresh fruits for their natural sweetness and nutritional content.
Instructions
Step 1: Mixing the Chia Pudding Base Begin by combining the chia seeds with coconut milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Ensure you give it a good stir, blending the seeds thoroughly with the milk. This initial mixing is crucial to avoid clumps and to ensure a smooth texture.
Step 2: Allowing the Mixture to Settle Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then revisit it for another stir. This step is essential for achieving that pudding-like texture, as the chia seeds swell and absorb the liquid, as well as avoiding clumps. Before chilling, do a taste test and add more sweetener if desired. Cover and chill for 2 hours.
Topping with Berry Compote or Preserves: Once the chia pudding has set, transfer it into your serving bowl. Gently layer it with your choice of berry compote or natural berry preserves. We suggest using a silicone brush!
Topping and Final Touches Once the mixture has reached the desired consistency, it's time to add your toppings. Carefully spoon your granola and fresh fruit onto the top of the chia pudding, layering them for visual appeal and taste.
Hint: Before refrigerating the chia pudding, cover it with a lid or plastic wrap. For a healthier and more environmentally friendly alternative, we prefer using beeswax wrap.
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of chia pudding lies in its versatility. Here are some easy-to-follow ideas for substitutions and variations:
- Milk Options: Replace coconut milk with almond milk or any plant-based milk you choose for a different flavor profile. Great for those who prefer a lighter taste.
- Sweeteners: If maple syrup isn’t your thing, try agave nectar or monk fruit sweetener. They are healthy dessert alternatives and maintain the sweetness level.
- Chocolate Twist: For a chocolate chia seed pudding, mix in cacao powder (cocoa powder). Adding chocolate chips can also enhance the flavor.
- Texture Variations: For a thicker pudding, use less liquid. If you prefer a lighter texture, simply add a bit more milk.
- Extra Toppings: Coconut flakes are a great addition to texture. Try some almond slices or walnuts in addition to or in place of the granola! Switch up the fruit to your favorite fruit! This is so versatile.
- Overnight Option: This recipe is perfect as an overnight chia pudding. Prepare it the night before for a hassle-free, nutritious, and quick breakfast the next morning.
Storage
To keep your chia pudding fresh, store it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make a large batch ahead of time and have breakfast ready every morning of the work week! Simply cut your fresh fruit in the morning, add all of your toppings, and enjoy!
While freezing chia pudding is possible, it may alter the texture slightly upon thawing. For best results, refrigerate and enjoy within a few days.
Top tip
To ensure the perfect texture for your chia pudding, remember to come back and give it another stir about 5 minutes after the initial mix. This step is crucial to prevent clumping and to achieve a smooth consistency.
Also, a practical note: Chia seeds can stick like glue to utensils and dishes, so it's best to rinse them immediately after use. This simple habit will save you time and effort in cleaning up.
FAQ
Chia pudding can be beneficial for gut health due to its high fiber content. The fiber in chia seeds helps promote regularity and a healthy digestive tract. It also supports the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, aiding in overall digestive health.
There are a couple of reasons why chia pudding might not set properly. The most common reason is the ratio of liquid to chia seeds. If there's too much liquid, the pudding will be too runny. Ensure you're using the correct proportions - typically about ¼ cup or 4 tablespoons of chia seeds to 1 cup of liquid. Also, giving the mixture sufficient time to set, usually a few hours or overnight, is essential.
Chia seeds can be a helpful addition to a weight loss diet due to their fiber content, which can keep you feeling fuller for longer and reduce appetite. However, they are not a magic solution for losing belly fat. Healthy weight loss involves a balanced diet and regular exercise. Chia seeds can be part of this balanced diet.
Yes, it's generally safe to eat chia seeds every day as part of a balanced diet. They are a nutritious source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and several essential minerals. However, as with any food, moderation is key. Due to their high fiber content, overconsumption may lead to digestive issues for some people.
Always discuss with your doctor if you are concerned about adding new foods to your diet.
More Breakfast Options
Looking for other healthy breakfast recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
At First Watch the A.M. Superfoods bowl is served with a slice of whole grain artisan toast topped with luxurious Almond Butter- which is also our favorite! You can use any nut butter, like cashew butter or peanut butter, if you'd like, or eat this chia pudding alone!
Recipe
First Watch Chia Pudding Copycat Recipe - A.M. Superfoods Bowl
Equipment
- Bowl
- spoon
- Silicone Brush
Ingredients
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 1 cup organic coconut milk unsweetened
- 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract optional
Toppings:
- Organic granola organic or homemade
- Berry compote or natural berry preserves
- Fresh fruits sliced banana, strawberries, and blueberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Chia Pudding (Step 1): In a bowl, combine chia seeds, coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to mix everything evenly.
- Prepare the Chia Pudding (Step 2): Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more maple syrup. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Add the Berry Compote or Preserves: Spoon the chilled chia pudding into a bowl and top with berry compote or preserves.
- Add Granola and Fresh Fruit: Follow with a layer of granola and arrange the fresh fruit on top.
Notes
- The nutrition facts are calculated using organic coconut milk in a carton.
- If using coconut milk from a can, the fat content and calories will increase. These are "healthy fats" that may improve satiety. Otherwise, lower-calorie options are also available!
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed this journey into making the perfect chia pudding. Your experiences and variations are valuable to us, so please share them in the comments below.
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Be well,
Natalie
Kelli says
Could the Chia pudding be made with almond milk or soy milk?
Natalie Perry says
absolutely!
Lisa Fischer says
This is the best chia pudding recipe I've tried. Thank you so much!
Natalie Perry says
Glad you liked it. You are quite welcome!
dalya rubin says
I've never made chia pudding with coconut milk before-- this is a must try for me since I LOVE chia pudding!
Natalie Perry says
It is so good!
Helen at the Lazy Gastronome says
I love chia seed pudding but I've never considered maple before - what a delicious idea! I ate the whole recipe by myself!! This is a definite keeper!
Natalie Perry says
Maple is one of my favorite natural sweeteners!
Andréa says
This looks like a bowl of all good things that come together. A wonderful start to each morning. Yes please!
Natalie Perry says
🙂
Nora says
This sounds like the perfect start to the day! Will try it out soon! Thanks!
Natalie Perry says
It's super easy, too!
DK says
Love this recipe, as a big fan of chia seeds! Especially with the combination of coconut milk - this dish is smooth and creamy!
Natalie Perry says
Glad you like it 🙂
Nicole NK says
I love a good Chia pudding, and this one did not disappoint. Will be adding this into my rotation.
Natalie Perry says
Wonderful!