Chia pudding is one of my favorite treats and for good reason! It’s super simple to make, requires only a handful of ingredients (this recipe uses 5) and can be made ahead of time so it’s always on the ready. This chia pudding definitely falls into the treat category because it’s comparable to a decadent dessert.
WHY CHIA IS CONSIDERED A SUPERFOOD
Chia seeds have been all the rage for quite some time. They are considered a “superfood” and make a great addition to a healthy, nutrient-dense diet. Not only are they low in carbs but they are packed with fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants!
Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids help to raise HDL cholesterol. HDL is the good cholesterol that helps to protect against heart attack and stroke.1
One thing to note is that chia seeds are a great addition to just about any diet however if you follow a strick Lectin-Free diet they are off-limits.
Now that you know a little more about what makes chia seeds so special let’s talk about one more ingredient before we get into the recipe. There is a secret ingredient that makes this chia seed pudding super creamy and also adds a little extra nutrient kick. Any guesses?
The secret ingredient is grass-fed heavy cream!
WHAT MAKES GRASS-FED DAIRY A SUPERSTAR?
High quality, grass-fed/ pasture-raised heavy cream is a wonderful addition to chia pudding for several reasons. Not only is it packed with omega-3 but it’s also a great source of a fatty acid called CLG (conjugated linoleic acid).
Studies have suggested that CLA may be a potent cancer fighter. And, the most abundant source of natural CLA is found in meat and dairy products of grass-fed animals. Research shows pasture-raised animals have 3-5 times more CLA than those raised conventionally.2 Another reason to always choose grass-fed over convention is animal welfare. I refuse to support conventional, factory-farmed animal products and you should too!
If you can find a local farmer who sells grass-fed products great! If you can’t, do your best to find heavy cream coming from pasture-raised cows at your grocery store.
My personal favorite is Kalona Super Natural. Their dairy is minimally processed and comes from small Amish and Mennonite farms. They use low-temperature pasteurization and their dairy is non-homogenized. I have yet to find a better organic, pasture-raised cream in my opinion. I think this is one of the best out there!
Ok, now its time to finally chat about this Super Creamy Almond Chia Pudding! This is by far my favorite chia pudding recipe. It is sooooo creamy and decadent. In addition to heavy cream, it contains almond extract instead of vanilla extract which makes it a tad more exciting than your standard chia pudding.
You can top this however you like but my favorite way is with fresh berries and coconut chips. You honestly can’t go wrong.
And, If you are dairy-free don’t worry! Simply use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and you will be good to go!
I hope you enjoy this chia pudding as much as I do. And, if you are a serious chia pudding fan check out my other chia pudding recipes!
Oh So Simple Chia Seed Pudding
White Chocolate Curry Chia Pudding with Vital Proteins
- 1 cup almond or other nut, seed or coconut milk
- 4 Tbsp grass-fed cream or coconut cream
- 4 Tbsp chia seeds
- 1 Tbsp granulated erythritol monk fruit blend (I prefer Lakanto)
- 1 tsp almond extract
- Pour liquid of choice in a medium size bowl.
- Add chia seeds, almond extract, heavy cream or coconut cream and sweetener.
- Use a whisk or fork to mix well. Allow to rest for 10 min and then stir again. This ensures chia seeds don't clump together.
- Cover and place in the fridge.
- To serve scoop into bowls and top with whatever you wish.
Sources
1.What Are The Benefits Of Chia Seeds?