Southern Pecan Pie in a Jar Chia Pudding Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on classic Southern flavors, let me introduce you to the Southern Pecan Pie in a Jar Chia Pudding. This dreamy dessert captures all the rich, nutty goodness of a pecan pie, combined with the wholesome, creamy texture of chia pudding, all beautifully layered in a convenient little jar. It’s perfect for those moments when you want something indulgent yet nourishing, with each spoonful offering a burst of sweet maple, cinnamon warmth, and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together effortlessly, creating layers of flavor and texture that make this Southern Pecan Pie in a Jar Chia Pudding truly special. Each component plays a vital role—from the nutty chia seeds that thicken the pudding, to the maple syrup adding natural sweetness, to the pecan cream that seals the deal with a silky finish.

• Chia Seeds: The star thickener that forms a luscious pudding with a slight crunch, packed with fiber and omega-3s.
• Oat Milk: Provides creamy, dairy-free richness that blends seamlessly with the chia and pecans.
• Maple Syrup: Adds mellow sweetness with a hint of caramel, elevating the Southern flavor profile.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and depth, enhancing all the other flavors naturally.
• Sea Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and amplifies the nutty notes.
• Pecan Halves: Soaked and blended for a luxuriously smooth pecan cream layer, loaded with classic Southern charm.
• Cinnamon: Infuses the pecan cream layer with comforting spice that pairs perfectly with pecans and maple.

How to Make Southern Pecan Pie in a Jar Chia Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Chia Pudding Base

Start by whisking together the chia seeds, oat milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt until everything is fully combined. This base will thicken beautifully as it chills, creating that wonderfully creamy yet textured pudding we all love. Remember, patience is key here—the chia needs at least an hour to set properly, but leaving it overnight only improves its texture.

Step 2: Soak and Drain the Pecans

While the chia pudding is setting, soak your pecan halves in hot water for 30 minutes. This step softens the nuts, making them much easier to blend into a velvety cream. Once soaked, drain them thoroughly so your pecan cream won’t be watery.

Step 3: Blend the Pecan Cream Layer

Combine the soaked pecans with oat milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a blender. Blend on high until the mixture turns silky smooth and evenly combined. This creamy pecan layer adds richness and those iconic Southern pecan pie flavors in one luscious swirl.

Step 4: Assemble the Jars

Divide the set chia pudding evenly into small jars (about 6 ounces each). Then, carefully pour the pecan cream layer on top of the chia pudding, creating a neat, two-layered effect that looks inviting and tastes incredible.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Pop the assembled jars into your fridge for at least 3 hours. This final chilling period helps the pecan cream thicken slightly and lets all the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, top each jar with some toasted pecan pieces for an irresistible crunch and a visual pop. Now your Southern Pecan Pie in a Jar Chia Pudding is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Southern Pecan Pie in a Jar Chia Pudding

Garnishes

For a perfect finishing touch, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon on top. You can also add a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of coconut whipped cream to enhance the indulgence. These simple garnishes bring extra texture and flavor that brighten the whole experience.

Side Dishes

Serve this pudding alongside a cup of strong black coffee or a chilled glass of oat milk for a balanced treat. It also pairs beautifully with fresh berries, which add a bright, juicy contrast to the rich pecan cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the pudding and pecan cream in tall glasses for an elegant look at brunch, or use mason jars adorned with rustic twine ribbons if gifting to friends. You can even add a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a festive occasion to make it shine as much as it tastes spectacular.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Southern Pecan Pie in a Jar Chia Pudding in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy those rich flavors any time you want a quick, nourishing indulgence.

Freezing

Though freezable, the texture of chia pudding can change slightly after thawing, becoming a bit more gelled or separated. If you do freeze it, use airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Remember to stir well before serving to redisperse any separation.

Reheating

This dish is best served cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. If you prefer a warmer dessert, you can gently warm a small portion of the pecan cream separately, then pour it over chilled chia pudding — just ensure not to overheat or it will lose its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of milk?

Absolutely! While oat milk pairs wonderfully with the flavors here, you can substitute almond, cashew, or coconut milk depending on your preference. Just choose unsweetened versions for best control over sweetness.

Do I need to soak the chia seeds?

Yes, soaking the chia seeds allows them to absorb the liquid and develop a pudding-like texture. Skipping this step will leave the seeds dry and crunchy rather than creamy.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan thanks to plant-based milk and no animal products, and gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free oats or oat milk certified gluten-free.

How sweet is this Southern Pecan Pie in a Jar Chia Pudding?

The sweetness is mild and wholesome, balanced mainly by maple syrup rather than refined sugar. You can adjust the maple syrup amounts to suit your personal taste.

Can this recipe be doubled or tripled?

Definitely! It scales up nicely, just keep the proportions consistent and use larger jars or containers. Perfect for parties or meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Southern Pecan Pie in a Jar Chia Pudding is one of those rare treats that feels indulgent but is still nourishing. Its layers of creamy chia pudding and rich pecan cream sing together in harmony, wrapped around the nostalgic warmth of Southern flavors. Try making it yourself—you’ll find it’s just as fun to prepare as it is to devour. Trust me, once you taste it, this charming jar dessert will become a favorite you’ll want to share with everyone you know.

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