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Lemon Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

5 from 96 reviews

This refreshing Lemon Chia Seed Pudding is a creamy, zesty dessert or breakfast option that combines the tropical richness of coconut milk with the bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemon juice and zest. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey and infused with vanilla, this pudding is packed with nutritious chia seeds that create a perfect, spoonable texture after refrigerating. It’s easy to make, customizable with optional turmeric for color, and versatile with suggested toppings like fresh berries, coconut flakes, or coconut yogurt.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups full-fat coconut milk (from a can, well stirred)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup chia seeds
  • Pinch of sea salt

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/16 teaspoon ground turmeric (for natural yellow tone)
  • 12 drops yellow gel food coloring (for enhanced vibrancy)

Suggested Toppings

  • Extra lemon zest curls
  • Coconut flakes
  • Fresh berries
  • Whipped cream or coconut yogurt

Instructions

  1. Whisk the Base Together: In a mixing bowl or large jar, combine the well-stirred coconut milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, sea salt, and turmeric if using. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated. If you are using yellow gel food coloring, add it now and whisk until the color is evenly blended.
  2. Add the Chia Seeds: Stir in the chia seeds evenly to distribute them throughout the liquid. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes without covering, then stir again to break up any clumps as the seeds start absorbing the liquid and expanding.
  3. Chill to Set: Cover the bowl or jar and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight. This chilling process allows the chia seeds to soak fully, thickening the mixture into a creamy, pudding-like consistency that is perfect for spooning.
  4. Stir and Serve: After chilling, give the pudding a good stir to ensure an even texture. Serve it in individual jars or bowls and top with your choice of add-ons such as extra lemon zest curls, coconut flakes, fresh berries, or whipped cream or coconut yogurt for extra creaminess and flavor.

Notes

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture.
  • Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey according to your preferred sweetness level.
  • The optional turmeric adds a natural yellow color and slight earthiness but can be omitted if coloring is not desired.
  • Yellow gel food coloring is purely for visual enhancement and does not affect flavor.
  • Chia seeds can clump if not stirred after the initial soaking period, so be sure to stir again after 5 minutes.
  • Make ahead and store the pudding in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Experiment with toppings to create varied flavor profiles and textures.

Keywords: lemon chia seed pudding, vegan pudding, coconut milk pudding, healthy dessert, breakfast pudding, chia seeds recipe, no-cook dessert