Lemon Chia Seed Pudding

These healthy Lemon Chia Seed Puddings pack in so much lemon flavor that you won't believe it is good for you. As a someone who loves lemon desserts, these remind me of a yummy lemon dessert in the best way. I make them for breakfast and snacks for a healthy treat. We rotate between this one, this basic chia seed pudding recipe with tons of fruit and Chocolate Chia Pudding.  And if you are curious, learn all about the benefits of chia seeds. 

It's been quite a while since I shared a chia seed pudding recipe, but that doesn't mean I haven't been enjoying my fair share of the nutritious treats. While normally I make up a big batch of plain chia seed pudding and just adds lots of yummy toppings, lately I have been loving adding citrus to my chia seed pudding mixes. Lemon, lime, and grapefruit have been the favorites. You want about 1 tbsp. of juice and 1 tsp. of zest for each serving. You'll love the tang of the citrus and it really makes your chia seed pudding pop.

What is chia seed pudding?

Chia seed pudding is a creamy breakfast, snack, or dessert made with chia seeds, milk or nut milk, and any of your favorite flavors or fruit. When chia seeds are soaked in liquid, they gel and thicken the liquid into a pudding-like consistency, sort of like tapioca. It can be eaten with the chia seeds whole or blended to create a smoother, more traditional pudding. It's a much healthier way to enjoy pudding since chia seeds are a superfood packed with omega 3 fats and fiber. They are also naturally low in carbohydrates.

Is chia seed pudding low carb?

Chia seed pudding is a popular low carb breakfast and dessert. The key to making a low carb chia pudding is to choose low carb ingredients to pair with the chia seeds. This usually means choosing a full fat dairy or an unsweetened nut milk. You can also use canned coconut milk. Additionally, you will need to choose a low carb sweetener. Most people use stevia or a sugar substitute to make low carb chia seed pudding. Finally be cautious about what fruit and toppings you add since fruit can be high in carbohydrates. Berries are the most popular low carb option since they have fewer carbs than most other fruit.

How do you make chia pudding?

To make chia seed pudding, you need to combine chia seeds with a liquid. Normally you will want a ratio of 1 part chia seeds to 3-4 parts chia seeds depending on how thick you like your chia pudding. Most people also add sweetener, usually about 1/2-1 tablespoon per serving. Then it needs to chill. It will need at least 3-4 hours in the fridge for the chia seeds to gel and create the pudding consistency you are looking for. Then you can either enjoy it with the pops of the chia seeds or blend it for a smoother consistency.

How long can I keep lemon chia seed pudding in the fridge?

Chia pudding can last in the fridge for 3-5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Make your individual chia puddings on Sunday and you can eat them all week for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. By making individual puddings, you can switch up the toppings and flavors in each pudding.

Topping Ideas for Lemon Chia Pudding

Like any good chia seed pudding, it is all about the toppings in my opinion. Here are some of my favorite toppings:

• Cherries
• Raspberries
• Blueberries
• Unsweetened shredded coconut
• Crumbled graham crackers
• Whipped cream or whipped coconut cream
• Sliced almonds
• Lemon yogurt
• Coconut yogurt
• Berry yogurt