Creamy Pumpkin Pie Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt Recipe

If you crave a dessert or breakfast that’s bursting with seasonal warmth and delightful creaminess, you are going to adore this Creamy Pumpkin Pie Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt. This stunningly simple recipe brings together the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie with the nutritious punch of chia seeds and the silky tang of yogurt, creating a luscious, wholesome treat that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Whether you want a make-ahead breakfast, a guilt-free snack, or an elegant dessert, this pudding hits all the marks with its perfect balance of texture, flavor, and freshness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together this Creamy Pumpkin Pie Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt requires just a handful of pantry staples that each play a crucial role in making the pudding rich, flavorful, and satisfying. These simple ingredients work in harmony to create a magical mix of creamy, spicy, and naturally sweet flavors you’ll want to dive into.

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Provides creaminess and a wonderful protein boost; feel free to swap with your favorite yogurt.
• ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk: Adds smoothness while keeping things light, but you can use any milk you prefer.
• ½ cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that brings that unmistakable pumpkin pie flavor and vibrant orange hue.
• 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup: Natural sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly without overpowering the spices.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Deepens complexity and adds warmth in the background.
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice: A fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that turns every bite into a fall celebration.
• Pinch sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor nuances.
• ¼ cup chia seeds: The magical thickening agent that also delivers fiber, omega-3s, and a delightful texture.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Pie Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt

Step 1: Combine Your Creamy Ingredients

Start by whisking together the milk, Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of sea salt in a medium bowl. Using a whisk or a handheld milk frother creates a creamy blend full of tiny bubbles – this ensures your pudding will be smooth and luxuriously light. This first step sets the tone for the perfect texture you’ll love.

Step 2: Add Chia Seeds and Let It Rest

Next, stir in the chia seeds thoroughly with a whisk or fork. Then, let your mixture sit for about 10 to 15 minutes before giving it another vigorous stir. This resting step is the secret to stopping the chia seeds from clumping together, helping them soak evenly and create that signature pudding texture. After the second stir, transfer the bowl to the refrigerator.

Step 3: Refrigerate and Thicken

Chill your pudding for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to let it thicken fully. The pudding firms up nicely in the fridge, becoming thick, creamy, and spoonable. If you find it too thick after chilling, simply stir in a splash more almond milk or your preferred milk to loosen it up just the way you like it – creamy but not runny.

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Pie Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt

Garnishes

The beauty of Creamy Pumpkin Pie Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt is how wonderfully it loves a good garnish. Sprinkle toasted pecans, crushed graham crackers, or a dusting of extra pumpkin pie spice for crunch and flair. You can also add fresh fruit like pomegranate seeds or sliced banana for pops of color and natural sweetness that contrast the spices perfectly.

Side Dishes

This pudding pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides. Think a crisp green salad for brunch balance or a warm spiced tea to echo those comforting pumpkin pie vibes. If serving for dessert, a small biscotti or crisp cookie adds a delightful texture contrast, rounding out the meal with elegance.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or make your snack extra special? Layer the pudding with granola and a swirl of honey in clear glass jars or parfait cups. Creating visual layers amplifies the creaminess and showcases the brilliant orange color with a sprinkle of seeds or nuts on top. Another fun idea is serving it in mini pumpkin shells for a festive touch that screams autumn celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Creamy Pumpkin Pie Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir it before serving as it may thicken more overnight. It’s ideal for meal prep or a quick grab-and-go breakfast on busy mornings.

Freezing

Although chia pudding tends to change texture after freezing, you can freeze it if needed for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well. Expect it to be softer and less thick—more like a creamy sauce. Freeze in portions to make serving easy and reduce waste.

Reheating

Since Creamy Pumpkin Pie Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. If you prefer it warm, gently stir in a bit of milk and warm slowly on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the chia seeds or breaking down the yogurt texture.

FAQs

Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain?

While you can substitute flavored yogurt, it may alter the intended balance of sweetness and spice. Plain yogurt keeps this pudding versatile and lets the pumpkin pie spices shine bright.

Is this pudding suitable for vegans?

Yes! Use a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt, and almond or oat milk to keep it vegan-friendly while still creamy and delicious.

How can I make this pudding less sweet?

Simply reduce the maple syrup or omit it altogether for a more subtle sweetness. The natural pumpkin and spices give it plenty of flavor on their own.

Can I prepare this pudding without chia seeds?

Chia seeds are key to thickening the pudding naturally and adding texture, so leaving them out will change the consistency significantly. If you’re avoiding chia, consider adding a natural thickener like ground flaxseed or experimenting with gelatin or agar-agar as alternatives.

What’s the best way to make the pudding creamier?

Use full-fat Greek yogurt or your favorite rich yogurt and ensure you whisk the mixture well at the start to incorporate air. Adding a splash of coconut cream can also elevate the creaminess to a whole new level.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pumpkin Pie Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt is one of those feel-good recipes that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, perfect for cozy mornings or festive evenings. Its simplicity makes it accessible, but the flavors and textures make it a standout treat you’ll want to make again and again. Grab those ingredients and enjoy the warm, creamy joy of pumpkin pie in a wholesome, modern way that feels like a hug in a bowl.

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