Peanut Butter Banana Chia Pudding

Short Description

Peanut Butter Banana Chia Pudding is a creamy, nutritious, and satisfying treat that works well as a breakfast, snack, or dessert. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this pudding combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter, complemented by the health benefits of chia seeds. This easy-to-make, no-cook recipe is perfect for meal prep and offers a delightful balance of taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, this pudding keeps you full for hours.
• No-Cook and Easy to Make: Requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort—simply mix, refrigerate, and enjoy.
• Naturally Sweetened: Bananas provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar.
• Great for Meal Prep: Can be made in advance and stored for several days, making it an excellent grab-and-go option.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences and tastes with ingredient swaps or additions.

Ingredients

• Chia seeds
• Ripe bananas
• Peanut butter
• Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• Vanilla extract
• Maple syrup or honey (optional)
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Salt
• Chopped nuts or granola for topping (optional)

Directions

1. Mash the Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. This will serve as the base and natural sweetener for the pudding.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add peanut butter, milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup or honey (if using) to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.
3. Incorporate Chia Seeds: Sprinkle in the chia seeds and stir thoroughly to distribute them evenly.
4. Let It Set: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Stir once after 30 minutes to prevent clumping.
5. Check for Consistency: If the pudding is too thick, add a splash of milk and stir before serving.
6. Serve and Garnish: Spoon into bowls or jars, then top with cinnamon, chopped nuts, or granola if desired.

Variations

• Chocolate Version: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate-peanut butter twist.
• Protein Boost: Mix in a scoop of protein powder for added nutrition.
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
• Berry Twist: Stir in fresh or frozen berries for a fruity touch.
• Spiced Flavor: Enhance with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for added warmth.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours (minimum)
• Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
• Servings: 2-3

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: Can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before consuming.
• Reheating: Best enjoyed cold, but if preferred warm, gently heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds and stir well.

FAQs

How long does chia pudding take to set?

Chia pudding typically takes at least 2 hours to achieve a thick, pudding-like consistency, but overnight is best for optimal texture.

Can I make this pudding without banana?

Yes! Substitute mashed banana with unsweetened applesauce or blended dates for a similar natural sweetness.

What type of milk works best?

Any milk—dairy, almond, coconut, oat, or soy—will work. Choose one based on your dietary preference.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds texture, but smooth peanut butter creates a more uniform consistency.

Is this pudding suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, as long as you use plant-based milk and a vegan-friendly sweetener like maple syrup.

Will the chia seeds expand too much?

No, but they will absorb the liquid and create a gel-like consistency. Stirring after 30 minutes helps ensure an even texture.

Can I blend the pudding for a smoother texture?

Yes, blending will create a silky, mousse-like pudding, especially if you prefer not to have whole chia seeds in your pudding.

How can I make it sweeter?

If the banana isn’t sweet enough, add a touch of honey, maple syrup, or a few drops of stevia.

Can I add yogurt?

Yes! Adding a spoonful of Greek or plant-based yogurt makes the pudding creamier and enhances the protein content.

What toppings go well with this pudding?

Popular toppings include sliced bananas, berries, granola, coconut flakes, dark chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Banana Chia Pudding is an effortless, delicious, and nourishing dish that suits various dietary needs and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or a satisfying dessert, this pudding is a fantastic choice. Try it today and enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this wholesome treat!

Print