Creamy, naturally sweet, and packed with plant-powered nutrition, this Banana Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding tastes just like a peanut butter banana smoothie in pudding form. It’s quick to prep, totally kid-friendly, and perfect for a wholesome breakfast, snack, or post-workout refuel.
A Creamy Classic with a Healthy Twist
If you’re a fan of the classic banana and peanut butter combo, then this pudding is about to become a staple in your kitchen. It brings together the rich, nutty flavor of natural peanut butter with the mellow sweetness of ripe banana—all in a cool, creamy chia base that delivers fiber, protein, and heart-healthy omega-3s.
This Banana Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding is more than just tasty—it’s a meal-prep dream. You mix a few pantry staples, pop it in the fridge, and by morning you’ve got a nutritious pudding that feels like dessert. It’s vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined-sugar-free too, depending on the ingredients you choose.
Kids love the flavor, adults love the nutrition, and it’s endlessly versatile. Whether you top it with crunchy granola, sliced banana, or an extra drizzle of peanut butter, this pudding is guaranteed to satisfy.
What You’ll Need
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave syrup (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced banana
- Drizzle of peanut butter
- Vegan granola or chopped nuts
- Cacao nibs
- Coconut flakes
Pro Tips
- Use a super ripe banana – The riper the banana, the sweeter and creamier the pudding will be.
- Stir twice – Mix once initially, then stir again after 15–20 minutes to prevent the chia seeds from clumping.
- Blend for ultra-smooth texture – If you’re not a fan of chia seed texture, blend the mixture before chilling for a creamy, mousse-like pudding.
- Make it your own – Stir in cinnamon or a touch of cocoa powder for extra flavor.
- Top right before eating – Add your banana slices and crunchy toppings just before serving to keep them fresh.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mason jar or airtight container
- Fork (for mashing banana)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spoon or whisk for mixing
- Blender (optional for smooth texture)
- Refrigerator for chilling
Substitutions and Variations
- Nut-free? Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter.
- Dairy-free/vegan? This recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant milk.
- No maple syrup? Omit entirely or substitute with date syrup or mashed Medjool dates.
- Want more protein? Add 1–2 tablespoons of hemp seeds or a scoop of plant-based protein powder.
- Craving chocolate? Stir in 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder or top with cacao nibs.
Make-Ahead Tips
This chia pudding is perfect for meal prep. Make it the night before and refrigerate in individual jars or containers. It will keep well for up to 5 days.
For on-the-go breakfasts, prepare in sealed jars and keep toppings in a separate container until ready to eat.
How to Make Banana Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding
1. Mash the Banana
In a small mixing bowl, mash the banana with a fork until very smooth.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
Add almond milk, peanut butter, maple syrup (if using), vanilla, and sea salt to the mashed banana. Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Add Chia Seeds
Stir in the chia seeds until evenly distributed. Let sit for 10–15 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
4. Refrigerate
Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until the pudding thickens to a creamy consistency.
5. Top and Serve
Before serving, stir the pudding again. Top with banana slices, a drizzle of peanut butter, and any other favorite toppings.
Leftovers and Storage
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days in sealed containers. Stir well before eating, as the pudding can thicken or settle. If needed, add a splash of almond milk to loosen the texture.
Freeze leftovers in individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir before serving.
A Sweet and Satisfying Way to Start Your Day
This Banana Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding is proof that nourishing food can be crave-worthy too. With all the comfort of a peanut butter banana sandwich—but none of the refined sugars or heavy carbs—it’s the perfect way to start your day or satisfy a mid-afternoon sweet tooth.
Whether you enjoy it plain or pile it high with toppings, this recipe is guaranteed to become part of your regular routine. If you give it a try, let me know in the comments—what toppings did you go with? Did you blend it smooth or leave it classic? I’d love to hear your twist on this fan-favorite combo!