This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is a delightful way to enjoy autumn flavors any time of the day. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a healthy snack. Packed with nutritious ingredients and warming spices, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for make-ahead convenience. Serve it at brunch or as a quick weekday meal, and enjoy the comforting taste of apple crumble in a wholesome chia pudding form.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Filling: The combination of chia seeds, oats, and nuts provides essential nutrients and keeps you full longer.
- Versatile Flavor: The blend of apple butter, cinnamon, and cardamom offers a warm and cozy flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.
- Easy to Prepare: Minimal cooking is required, making it a great option for busy mornings or meal prep.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the pudding in advance for an effortless breakfast throughout the week.
- Customizable Toppings: Adjust the crumble and stewed apples according to your preference for added crunch or sweetness.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding a breeze. Here are some essential items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Blender
- Storage container or bowl
- Mini food processor
- Saute pan
- Jars for serving
Importance of Each Tool
- Blender: Ensures your chia pudding mixture is smooth and well-combined, enhancing texture.
- Mini Food Processor: Quickly turns oats and nuts into a delightful crumble without much effort.
- Saute Pan: Perfect for gently cooking the apples while retaining their flavors and nutrients.
Ingredients
This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is packed with all the fall flavors thanks to the addition of apple butter and warming spices. A fiber loaded breakfast that is easy to prep ahead of time.
For the Pudding Base
- 1/3 cup unsweetened plain plant-based yogurt
- 3 tbsp apple butter
- 1 medjool date
- 1 tsp yellow miso paste, optional
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt or more to taste
- 3/4 cup soy milk
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
For the Crumble
- 3 tbsp gluten-free rolled oats
- 3 tbsp walnuts or pecans
- 2 medjool dates
For the Stewed Apples
- 2 apples, diced or thinly sliced
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
How to Make Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
Step 1: Blend the Base Mixture
To start, add all base ingredients into a blender:
1. Pour in the yogurt, apple butter, medjool date, yellow miso paste (if using), vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and soy milk.
2. Blend on high until completely smooth.
Step 2: Combine with Chia Seeds
In a storage container or bowl:
1. Add chia seeds.
2. Pour the blended mixture over them.
3. Whisk together until well combined.
4. Let sit for 5 minutes before whisking again to remove clumps.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumble
In your mini food processor:
1. Combine gluten-free oats, walnuts (or pecans), dates, and a pinch of salt.
2. Pulse until you reach your desired crumbly texture.
Step 4: Cook the Apples
On medium-low heat in a saute pan:
1. Add diced apples along with maple syrup, cinnamon, water (about 1/4 cup), and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir well to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add additional water if needed while stirring until most liquid has evaporated.
Step 5: Assemble Your Pudding
For serving:
1. Divide chia pudding between three jars.
2. Top each jar with stewed apples.
3. Sprinkle crumble generously on top (about 2 tablespoons recommended).
4. Optionally add extra apple butter or maple syrup as desired.
This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding will not only fill your kitchen with delightful aromas but will also become your go-to recipe for healthy breakfasts that celebrate fall! Enjoy!
How to Serve Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re preparing it for breakfast or as a healthy snack, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
Individual Jars
- Serve each portion in a jar for a visually appealing presentation. This makes it easy to grab and go!
Topped with Extra Apple Butter
- A spoonful of extra apple butter on top enhances the apple flavor and adds creaminess to each bite.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- A drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and complements the spices beautifully, making each bite even more irresistible.
With Fresh Fruit Slices
- Add fresh fruit slices like bananas or berries on top for an added burst of freshness and color.
Accompanied by Nuts
- Sprinkle some additional chopped walnuts or pecans on top for extra crunch and healthy fats.
How to Perfect Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
To ensure that your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.
- Use ripe apples: Choose sweet, ripe apples for the best flavor in your stewed apples.
- Let it chill: Allow the chia pudding to sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour, as this helps the chia seeds expand and create a creamy texture.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste your pudding before serving and adjust the sweetness with more maple syrup or dates if desired.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other warming spices like nutmeg or ginger to customize the flavor profile.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days. Stir before serving again.
- Layer it up: For an impressive dessert presentation, layer the pudding, stewed apples, and crumble in clear glasses.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side that complements the pudding.
- Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a nutritious balance to your meal.
- Whole Grain Toast: Serve with whole grain toast topped with almond butter for added protein and fiber.
- Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or kale adds a savory element that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pudding.
- Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad bursting with seasonal fruits provides freshness and variety.
- Nut Trail Mix: A homemade trail mix of nuts and dried fruits offers crunch and energy to keep you satisfied longer.
- Oatmeal Cookies: Pairing a few oatmeal cookies on the side adds a fun treat that echoes the flavors of fall.
- Chia Seed Energy Bites: These bites are packed with nutrients and make a perfect match, enhancing your healthy breakfast vibes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Apple Crumble Chia Pudding, it’s easy to stumble into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the soaking step: Not allowing the chia seeds to soak properly can lead to a grainy texture. Make sure to let them sit in the blended mixture for at least an hour.
- Not using ripe apples: Using underripe apples can result in a less flavorful dish. Choose sweet, ripe apples for the best taste and texture.
- Overlooking spice measurements: Adding too much or too little of spices like cinnamon can throw off the flavor balance. Measure carefully, especially with strong spices.
- Neglecting storage guidelines: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Store your pudding in airtight containers in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.
- Forgetting to customize: This recipe is versatile! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different nuts or fruits based on your preferences.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Apple Crumble Chia Pudding in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
- Ensure that any toppings are kept separately until serving to maintain freshness.
Freezing Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- To prevent freezer burn, wrap containers tightly or use vacuum-sealed bags.
Reheating Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat pudding in an oven-safe dish for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place pudding in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Apple Crumble Chia Pudding:
Can I make Apple Crumble Chia Pudding ahead of time?
Yes! This pudding can be prepared a day or two in advance, making it a great option for meal prep.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can customize your pudding by using different fruits like pears or berries, or by substituting nuts based on your preference.
Is Apple Crumble Chia Pudding healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with fiber from chia seeds and oats, making it a nutritious breakfast choice.
How do I store leftover chia pudding?
Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I use other types of milk?
Yes! You can substitute soy milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any plant-based milk you prefer.
Final Thoughts
Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is not only delicious but also versatile. It offers all the cozy flavors of fall while being nutritious and easy to prepare. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits and nuts, making it perfect for breakfast or a healthy treat anytime. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful taste!
Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with this Apple Crumble Chia Pudding. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a wholesome snack, this recipe combines nutritious ingredients like chia seeds, oats, and nuts to create a filling treat that satisfies your sweet tooth. The delightful blend of apple butter, cinnamon, and cardamom offers a cozy flavor profile that brings the essence of fall into your kitchen. Easy to prepare and make-ahead friendly, this pudding is an excellent option for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. Serve it in individual jars topped with stewed apples and a crunchy crumble for a deliciously satisfying experience any time of day.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup unsweetened plain plant-based yogurt
- 3 tbsp apple butter
- 1 medjool date
- 1 tsp yellow miso paste, optional
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt or more to taste
- 3/4 cup soy milk
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
- 3 tbsp gluten-free rolled oats
- 3 tbsp walnuts or pecans
- 2 medjool dates
- 2 apples, diced or thinly sliced
- 2 tsp maple syrup
Instructions
- In a blender, combine plant-based yogurt, apple butter, medjool date, optional yellow miso paste, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and soy milk. Blend until smooth.
- In a storage container or bowl, mix chia seeds with the blended mixture. Whisk together and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Prepare the crumble by pulsing gluten-free oats, walnuts (or pecans), dates, and a pinch of salt in a mini food processor until crumbly.
- In a sauté pan over medium-low heat, cook diced apples with maple syrup and cinnamon until softened.
- To serve, layer chia pudding in jars with stewed apples and sprinkle the crumble on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use ripe apples for enhanced sweetness. Adjust the sweetness with more maple syrup or dates to taste. Experiment with spices like nutmeg for additional warmth.
