Creamy Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy, nutritious treat that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Creamy Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding Recipe might just become your new favorite. The way the pumpkin puree blends seamlessly with the subtle pumpkin pie spice creates a comforting autumn vibe, but honestly, I love it all year round. It’s perfect for breakfast, a healthy snack, or even a light dessert that satisfies without any guilt.
What I really appreciate about this Creamy Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding Recipe is how simple it is to make yet so impressive in flavor and texture. Plus, it comes together quickly, giving you a creamy, luscious pudding that’s naturally thickened with chia seeds. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation, especially when you want something wholesome and delicious with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this pudding lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that work so well together to create that rich, creamy texture and warm flavor. When shopping, look for pure pumpkin puree — it’s the star here, not pumpkin pie filling, which is sweeter and spiced already. Fresh or well-sealed ingredients help keep the flavors bright, and feel free to use your favorite milk to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Milk of choice: I usually use almond or oat milk for a silky texture, but any milk works fine.
- Pumpkin puree: Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to control the sweetness and spices.
- Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness; adjust to your taste. Honey or agave works too.
- Pumpkin pie spice: Gives that classic cozy fall flavor; you can make your own blend if you like.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors without being noticeable.
- Chia seeds: These thicken the pudding and add fiber and healthy fats.
Variations
I love how flexible this Creamy Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding Recipe is when it comes to making it your own. Sometimes I switch up the spices or toppings depending on what I have at home or what mood I’m in. The best part is it’s forgiving and easy to tweak.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based milk and maple syrup to keep it fully vegan. I always opt for this and find it just as delicious.
- Spice variations: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg separately for a different depth — I’ve found fresh ground cinnamon elevates the flavor.
- Extra texture: Stir in a handful of chopped nuts or shredded coconut before chilling for a crunchy finish.
- Protein boost: Add a spoonful of nut butter or protein powder if you want it to double as a post-workout snack.
How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients
Start by whisking together your milk of choice, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Make sure everything is well combined so those warm spices and sweet notes are evenly distributed. I like to whisk until the mixture is smooth and you don’t see lumps of pumpkin or clumps of spice.
Step 2: Stir in the Chia Seeds
Once your pumpkin mixture is smooth, stir in the chia seeds. Give everything a good mix so the seeds don’t clump together. The chia seeds will soak up the liquid and swell, transforming into that pudding-like texture we’re after.
Step 3: Refrigerate and Wait Patiently
Transfer your mixture into jars or bowls and pop them into the fridge for at least 3-4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This waiting game is key to letting the chia seeds fully absorb the liquid and thicken up beautifully. Patience here really pays off.
How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

Garnishes
When it comes to toppings, I keep it simple but seasonal — toasted pecans, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon are my go-tos. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or pomegranate seeds add a nice pop of color and freshness, which contrasts the creamy pudding perfectly.
Side Dishes
I often pair this pudding with crunchy granola or a slice of freshly baked whole-grain toast. It’s incredibly balanced — you get creamy, crunchy, and hearty all in one sitting. It’s also great alongside a warm cup of coffee if you want a cozy morning boost.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I’ve served this pudding layered in clear glasses with whipped coconut cream and a sprinkle of ginger snaps on top — it’s like an easy, elegant dessert that impresses without much effort. Adding edible flowers or a cinnamon stick as a stirrer makes it feel festive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover pudding you have can stay fresh and delicious in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I find that it might thicken a little more as it sits, so just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the texture.
Freezing
I haven’t personally had great luck freezing the pudding because the chia seeds alter texture a bit after thawing. If you want to prep in advance, I recommend making the pudding base and chia seeds fresh, then freezing some pumpkin puree separately instead.
Reheating
This pudding is best enjoyed cold, but if you want a warm version, try gently warming it on the stove with a splash of milk while stirring constantly. That helps to loosen up the texture without making it watery. I love this cozy twist especially on chilly mornings.
FAQs
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Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree in this pudding?
It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling because the filling already contains added sugars and spices that can throw off the pudding’s balance. Using puree lets you control the sweetness and spice levels exactly.
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How long does the Creamy Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding need to set?
For the best texture, let the pudding set in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours, though overnight is ideal. The chia seeds need time to fully absorb the liquid and expand, creating a creamy consistency.
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Can I prepare this pudding ahead of time for the week?
Absolutely! This pudding keeps well for up to 4 days in the fridge, making it great for meal prep. Just give it a stir before serving if the texture thickens more than you like.
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Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, just use plant-based milk like almond, coconut, or oat milk, and maple syrup as your sweetener to keep it fully vegan and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding Recipe has quickly become one of those desserts and breakfast options that feels both special and everyday at the same time. It’s easy to whip up, so you get that satisfying creamy pumpkin flavor anytime you crave it without fuss. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do — it’s like carrying a little fall magic in your fridge all season long!
Print
Creamy Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding is a creamy, nutrient-dense breakfast or snack option that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm pumpkin pie spice with the nutritious boost of chia seeds. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and made with your choice of milk, this pudding is a perfect make-ahead, no-cook treat that is wholesome and delicious.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling
- 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until thoroughly combined to create a smooth mixture.
- Add Chia Seeds: Stir in the chia seeds until evenly distributed throughout the pumpkin mixture.
- Let It Set: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the chia seeds to absorb liquid and thicken the pudding to the desired consistency.
- Stir and Serve: Before serving, stir the pudding well to break up any clumps and ensure a creamy texture. Adjust sweetness if needed by adding extra maple syrup.
Notes
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for authentic pumpkin flavor without added sugars or spices.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey, agave, or your preferred sweetener.
- Feel free to use any milk type, such as almond, oat, coconut, or cow’s milk.
- This pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Add toppings like nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit just before serving for extra texture and flavor.
Keywords: Pumpkin chia pudding, healthy breakfast, pumpkin recipes, no-cook pudding, fall breakfast ideas, vegetarian pudding