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The dairy-free chia pudding is silky and spoonable, soaking up all the richness of coconut milk with a touch of maple syrup. Topped with strawberry nice cream, made from blended frozen bananas and strawberries, it’s a refreshing twist on a classic pudding.
Some desserts sit in your stomach like a brick—this one? It’s like eating a cloud (if clouds were made of strawberries and dreams). As a dietitian and a mom, I’m always on the hunt for cool, fruity treats that my kids devour and that I can enjoy after a workout without feeling like I need a nap.
When summer hits, my blender basically never gets a break. We’re all about frosty, fruit-packed treats that feel indulgent but take zero effort. This one? A two-in-one situation—you get a silky chia pudding and a creamy strawberry banana nice cream that melts in your mouth like soft serve.
What is Chia Pudding?
Chia pudding is one of those “set it and forget it” recipes that magically transform overnight. Tiny little seeds soak up almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk, turning into a spoonable, creamy texture that somehow feels both light and satisfying.
And the best part? It’s endlessly customizable. Want it sweeter? Add a drizzle of maple syrup. Craving crunch? Toss in coconut flakes or chopped nuts. It’s the kind of thing that feels fancy but takes almost no effort.
Pro Tip: Give it a stir twice—once when you mix it, and again after 5 minutes to prevent clumping. Nobody wants weird chia lumps.
Nutrition Highlights
This creamy, refreshing dessert is made with just a handful of nourishing ingredients:
- Fiber from chia seeds
- Plant-based protein from chia seeds
- Antioxidants from strawberries
- Natural sweetness from bananas and maple syrup
How to Make it: 4 Simple Steps
- Blend the base – In a high-speed blender, combine 2 cups of almond milk, a ripe banana, and dates until smooth. (Images 1–3)
- Mix in the chia seeds – Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl and whisk in the chia seeds, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Let sit for a few minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping. (Image 4)
- Prep the glasses (optional) – For a beautiful layered presentation, slice fresh strawberries and arrange them along the sides of two clean, dry glasses. If keeping it simple, skip this step. (Image 8)
- Chill and set – Pour the chia pudding mixture evenly into the prepared glasses. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, though overnight will yield the best texture.
- Make the strawberry nice cream – Just before serving, blend ½ cup of almond milk, frozen bananas, and frozen strawberries until smooth and creamy, resembling soft-serve ice cream. (Images 5–7)
- Assemble and serve – Spoon the strawberry nice cream over the chilled chia pudding, then garnish with fresh strawberries for the final touch. (Image 8)
Pro Tip: For the best texture, let the chia pudding sit overnight and blend the nice cream right before serving to keep it perfectly creamy.
Food Safe Storage
- Meal Prep Tip: Layer the chia pudding in jars and freeze the nice cream separately for an easy grab-and-go option.
- Chia Pudding: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.
- Strawberry Nice Cream: Best eaten fresh, but if storing, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Let sit at room temp for 5 minutes before scooping.
Tried this recipe? Drop a rating, leave a comment, and make sure to tag me on Instagram @DesiliciousRD. I can’t wait to see your creations!
This Wholesome Meal Plan is 100% animal product free and VEGAN. You will learn how to maximize your intake of healthy whole grains, a rainbow of vegetables, fruits and legumes – all while minimizing refined sugars and oils. Say hello to a nutrient-packed and delicious eating plan to support your healthy lifestyle and commitment to our planet’s health.
Get the Recipe:
How To Make Chia Pudding With Strawberry Nice Cream
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups almond milk, unsweetened
- 1/2 banana, ripe
- 2 dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 2 cups banana, ripe, frozen, sliced
- 1/2 cup strawberries, frozen
- 2 strawberries, fresh
Equipment
- blender
Instructions
Chia Pudding
- In a high-speed blender, combine 2 cups of almond milk, dates, and a ripe banana. Blend until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a medium mixing bowl and whisk in the chia seeds, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Divide the pudding between two serving glasses and refrigerate for at least one hour, or ideally overnight, until thickened and set.
Nice Cream
- Just before serving, blend ½ cup of almond milk, frozen bananas, and frozen strawberries in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy, resembling soft-serve ice cream.
How to serve
- For an elegant presentation, slice fresh strawberries into thin pieces and arrange them along the insides of the chilled pudding glasses.
- Spoon the strawberry nice cream over the chia pudding, spreading it evenly.
- Garnish with additional fresh strawberries and serve immediately.
Notes
Tips for Success
- Stir the chia pudding twice—once when you mix it and again after five minutes. This keeps it smooth and prevents clumps.
- Use ripe bananas for the nice cream. The riper, the sweeter, so there’s no need for added sweeteners.
- Blend the nice cream right before serving. It melts fast, and you want that perfect soft-serve texture.
- Want a thicker pudding? Add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds. Prefer it thinner? Stir in a splash of almond milk before serving.
- If you’re going for the fancy strawberry-lined glass, make sure the glasses are dry so the slices stick.
- Refrigerate the pudding overnight for the best texture—it thickens beautifully and gets even creamier.
Nutrition Information:
Keep in mind that the nutritional values provided are approximations and suggestions, and might fluctuate depending on ingredient variations, portion sizes, and recipe adjustments. This nutrition facts table cannot account for your individual needs. Your body — including your hunger and satiety cues — change daily. It’s perfectly fine to eat more or less on different days. Instead of letting food guilt take over, consider mindful eating.
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Looks amazing! Could I freeze the entire dessert when finished?
Thanks Colleen, I haven’t tried freezing the entire dessert, but I think it would still taste great! Let me how it turns out for you! Warmly, Shahzadi
You’re most welcome, Rohit! 🙂
OMG! I made this exactly per your recipe and it was incredible. I was surprised by how good it tasted. My son even loved the taste. A special thanks to Desi for helping me change my lifestyle in recent months. Now if only my husband would get on board:)
Oh I’m thrilled to hear this! Enjoy my dear and wish you both good health 🙂
thanks Cris – super glad you liked the recipe! 🙂