A creamy, energizing treat that brings your morning coffee and breakfast together in one delicious spoonful.
A Caffeinated Breakfast with a Healthy Twist
If you love the rich, bold flavor of coffee but want a more nourishing way to start your day, this Coffee Chia Seed Pudding is the perfect blend of energy and nutrition. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, with just enough coffee flavor to wake up your taste buds—and thanks to chia seeds, it’s also full of fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.
What I love most about this pudding is that it’s simple, quick, and make-ahead friendly. I usually mix up a few jars on Sunday night, and by Monday morning, I’ve got a creamy, coffee-kissed breakfast ready to go. It’s a lifesaver on busy weekdays, and let’s be honest—anything that feels like dessert and still qualifies as healthy gets bonus points in my book.
Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, a mid-morning pick-me-up, or an after-dinner treat, this coffee chia pudding will keep you fueled and satisfied. It’s also totally customizable—make it dairy-free, sugar-free, or extra indulgent with whipped cream and a sprinkle of dark chocolate.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- ¼ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 2 tablespoons plain or vanilla Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (or keto sweetener)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped coconut cream or dairy whipped cream
- Cacao nibs or dark chocolate shavings
- Espresso powder for dusting
- A drizzle of nut butter
Pro Tips
- Use strong coffee or espresso – It gives the pudding that rich flavor without making it too watery. Let it cool before mixing.
- Blend for a smoother texture – If you don’t love the tapioca-like texture of chia seeds, blend the mixture after soaking.
- Sweeten to taste – Start with 1 teaspoon of sweetener and adjust based on how sweet your milk or yogurt already is.
- Great for meal prep – Make several jars at once and grab one each morning for a hassle-free, energy-boosting breakfast.
- Serve chilled – Coffee chia pudding is best enjoyed cold, especially during warmer months.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mason jar or lidded container
- Spoon for serving
Substitutions and Variations
- No dairy? Use coconut yogurt or skip the yogurt entirely and add an extra splash of almond milk.
- Need it caffeine-free? Use decaf coffee or a coffee-flavored herbal tea like chicory root.
- Lower sugar? Use monk fruit or erythritol-based sweetener.
- More protein? Add a scoop of collagen peptides or protein powder to the mixture.
- Flavor boost? Stir in cocoa powder for a mocha version or a dash of cardamom for warmth.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep this pudding up to 5 days in advance, making it a great meal prep option. Store in individual jars or containers and keep them sealed in the fridge. If the pudding thickens too much over time, simply stir in a splash of milk before serving to loosen it up.
Add toppings just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
How to Make Coffee Chia Seed Pudding
1. Mix the Liquid Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond milk, brewed coffee, yogurt (if using), maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add Chia Seeds
Stir in the chia seeds and mix well. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
3. Refrigerate Overnight
Transfer the mixture into a mason jar or lidded container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened.
4. Add Toppings and Serve
When ready to eat, stir the pudding and top with whipped cream, cacao nibs, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy cold.
Leftovers and Storage
This pudding will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Store in individual jars or containers with lids. If it becomes too thick, just stir in a little more almond milk before serving. Add toppings just before enjoying for the best texture.
Sip Your Coffee, Spoon Your Breakfast
This Coffee Chia Seed Pudding is the perfect marriage of two morning essentials—your favorite brew and a healthy, filling breakfast. It’s ideal for busy mornings, mid-day pick-me-ups, or whenever you want a little something indulgent without the sugar crash.
If you try it out, I’d love to know how you made it your own! Did you go mocha-style? Top it with nuts or chocolate? Leave a comment below and share your favorite version. Let’s talk breakfast bliss!
