Name: Irresistible Apple Crumble Chia Pudding for a Cozy Morning
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Chia Seeds; 1/2 cup Miso Paste (Yellow or white miso works well.); 1/2 cup Medjool Dates (Can substitute with dried apricots.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom; 2 cups Soy Milk (Feel free to use any plant-based milk.); 1/2 cup Soy Yogurt (Any preferred yogurt can be used.); 1 cup Oats (Gluten-free oats for gluten-free option.); 1/2 cup Walnuts (Can substitute with pecans or almonds.); 2 cups Apples (Fresh bananas can be a delicious alternate.); 1/2 cup Apple Butter (Can substitute with sautéed apples.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The first hint of autumn brings an irresistible pull towards cozy, comforting flavors. With that warmth in mind, I’ve created this delightful Apple Crumble Chia Pudding—your new favorite vegan, high-fiber breakfast delight. This recipe not only captures the essence of fall with its sweet apple butter and warming spices, but it also simplifies your morning routine with meal prep-friendly convenience. Imagine waking up to a nutritious breakfast that’s just as satisfying as a decadent dessert. You can indulge your cravings while getting a healthy start to your day! So, are you ready to layer up some mouthwatering goodness and enjoy a wholesome breakfast that’s bursting with flavor?

Why Choose Apple Crumble Chia Pudding?

Indulgent Yet Healthy: This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding offers the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition, letting you enjoy flavors reminiscent of fall desserts while packing in high fiber.

Customizable Delight: Easily adapt this recipe by swapping walnuts for pecans or changing up the yogurt type, ensuring it fits your taste preferences.

Meal Prep Magic: Experience the convenience of meal prep as this pudding keeps well in the fridge, making busy mornings a breeze.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress family and friends with its vibrant layers that not only look stunning but taste divine, making breakfast an occasion!

Quick to Prepare: In just minutes, you can whip up this pudding, providing a stress-free start to your day. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or even try the delightful Apple Zucchini Bread for a complete breakfast spread!

Apple Crumble Chia Pudding Ingredients

Unlock the cozy flavors of fall with this delightful recipe!

For the Pudding

Chia Seeds – A powerhouse of soluble fiber to aid digestion; blend with milk for a smoother texture.
Miso Paste – Adds a unique depth and balances sweetness; yellow or white miso works well.
Medjool Dates – Naturally sweeten your pudding; dried apricots can also be a great substitute.
Cinnamon & Cardamom – Speaks to the essence of autumn; swap for apple pie spice if desired.
Soy Milk – This protein-rich liquid forms the base; feel free to use your favorite plant-based alternative.
Soy Yogurt – Provides creaminess; any preferred yogurt can be used if you like.

For the Crumble

Oats – Build the crunchy crumble; gluten-free oats are great for a gluten-free option.
Walnuts – Adds a lovely crunch; substitute with pecans or almonds, or simply omit for nut allergies.

For the Topping

Apples – Cues natural sweetness and texture; fresh bananas can be a delicious alternate.
Apple Butter – Infuses flavor and sweetness; substitute with sautéed apples for variety.

Give this Apple Crumble Chia Pudding a try, and watch how it transforms your breakfast routine into something truly special!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Crumble Chia Pudding

Step 1: Blend Base
In a blender, combine soy yogurt, apple butter, Medjool dates, miso paste, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and soy milk. Blend on high for about 1-2 minutes or until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This vibrant blend will serve as the base for your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding, offering a warm and comforting flavor profile.

Step 2: Combine Chia
Pour the blended mixture over chia seeds in a bowl or a container. Whisk well for about one minute to ensure the chia seeds are evenly coated. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping. Once smoothly combined, refrigerate the chia pudding for at least one hour, allowing it to thicken and achieve the perfect pudding-like texture.

Step 3: Make Crumble
In a food processor, pulse the oats, walnuts (or your chosen substitutes), and a pinch of salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step will create the crunchy topping for your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding, adding texture and contrast. Transfer the crumble to a bowl and set it aside while you prepare the stewed apples.

Step 4: Stew Apples
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add diced apples along with maple syrup, an extra sprinkle of cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and a splash of water. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the apples soften, stirring occasionally. If the mixture begins to stick, add a little more water to create a saucy consistency. The goal is to have tender apples that will beautifully complement your pudding.

Step 5: Assemble
In serving jars, layer the chia pudding, followed by the warm stewed apples, and finish with a generous sprinkle of the crumble on top. This beautiful layering creates a delightful presentation and ensures each bite of your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding includes all the delicious components. For an extra touch, consider drizzling additional apple butter or maple syrup over the top before serving.

What to Serve with Apple Crumble Chia Pudding

Bring the perfect balance of flavors to your breakfast table with delightful pairings to enhance this delicious dish.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Vibrant and juicy, a side of mixed fresh fruits brightens your plate, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy pudding.
Smoothie Bowl: Creamy and nutritious, a smoothie bowl made from bananas and spinach complements your pudding while delivering a nutrient punch. This combo makes breakfast colorful and satisfying!
Cinnamon Toast: The cozy flavors of cinnamon toast bring an inviting crunch that beautifully echoes the warm spices in the pudding.
Chai Latte: Offering warmth and spice, this aromatic drink enhances the cozy vibe, bringing each bite of pudding to life with every sip.
Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt and granola creates a delightful textural contrast while adding a creamy component that pairs wonderfully with the pudding’s flavors.
Maple Almond Milk: A glass of this sweet, nutty beverage highlights the flavors of the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding without overwhelming it.
Pumpkin Muffins: With their autumnal essence, these hearty muffins add a delightful twist to your breakfast and echo the comforting sweetness of your pudding.
Spiced Chai Tea: The fragrant spices will harmonize beautifully with your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding, making for a warm and comforting breakfast experience that feels like a hug.

Apple Crumble Chia Pudding Variations

Feel free to shake things up and make this delightful recipe your own with some fun variations!

Nut-Free Delight: Omit walnuts altogether and replace them with a seed-based crumble, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy topping.
Flavor Boost: Swap apple butter for homemade spiced pumpkin puree to add a cozy twist, capturing those autumn vibes in every bite.
Sweetness Levels: Instead of Medjool dates, try using mashed ripe bananas to sweeten your pudding naturally and add creaminess.
Extra Creamy: Use coconut yogurt for a tropical twist that complements the warm spices beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in diced pears or other favorite fruits with the apples for a unique take that brings extra sweetness and surprises!
Syrup Swap: If you’re out of maple syrup, a drizzle of honey or agave works wonderfully to sweeten the stewed apples and adds a different flavor profile.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick that brings out the warm flavors of cinnamon and cardamom.
Layered Appeal: Consider serving your scrumptious pudding in individual clear jars with layers of the pudding, stewed apples, and different fruits like berries or bananas for a colorful twist.

These variations will make your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding a personalized treat, perfect for sharing with loved ones. If you’re looking for more fun breakfast ideas, don’t miss out on the delicious Banana Pudding Parfait or the delightful Apple Zucchini Bread for your brunch gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Crumble Chia Pudding jars are perfect for busy mornings and can be prepped ahead for up to 3 days! Start by blending the base and combining it with chia seeds. Allow the mixture to sit and thicken, then refrigerate it overnight. For the crumble, prepare the oat and walnut mixture ahead and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal texture. You can also stew the apples and store them separately in the fridge to maintain their softness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply layer the chilled chia pudding, warm stewed apples, and crunchy crumble in your bowls. This way, every bite remains delicious and satisfying, making your breakfast routine effortless!

Expert Tips for Apple Crumble Chia Pudding

Smooth Blending: Ensure the chia seeds are thoroughly blended with the milk to achieve a smooth and creamy texture; this prevents clumping.
Proper Whisking: Always whisk the chia seeds with the liquid initially and again after 5 minutes to avoid clumping and ensure even distribution.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner pudding, don’t hesitate to adjust the liquid; add a little more soy milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to switch up the spices! Using just cinnamon or a pre-mixed apple pie spice can also impart delightful flavor without complexity.
Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies, simply omit the walnuts in the crumble and enjoy a perfectly delicious Apple Crumble Chia Pudding without compromising texture.
Make in Batches: Ideal for meal prep! Consider doubling the recipe and storing individual portions in the fridge for easy, on-the-go breakfasts throughout the week.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Crumble Chia Pudding

Fridge: Keep your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Crumble Storage: For the best texture, store the crumble separately. It can stay fresh for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature.

Freezer: If you want to make a batch ahead, freeze the unassembled pudding and crumble in individual portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge; enjoy chilled or warm the stewed apples briefly in the microwave before layering for a cozy breakfast.

Apple Crumble Chia Pudding Recipe FAQs

What kind of chia seeds should I use for the pudding?
You can use either black or white chia seeds; they are interchangeable in this recipe, and both provide a nice texture and nutritional benefits. Just make sure they’re fresh to achieve the best results!

How long can I store Apple Crumble Chia Pudding in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can store your prepared chia pudding in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This means you can whip it up over the weekend and enjoy it throughout the busy week!

Can I freeze Apple Crumble Chia Pudding?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping! To freeze, spoon the unassembled pudding and crumble into individual containers and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge. For a cozy breakfast, warm up the stewed apples before layering!

How do I prevent the chia seeds from clumping together?
Great question! To prevent clumping, whisk the chia seeds with the blended mixture well after combining and then let it sit for 5 minutes. Give it another whisk before refrigerating. This ensures an even distribution, giving you a smooth pudding consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Very! This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is vegan-friendly, but if you have allergies to nuts, you can easily substitute walnuts in the crumble or omit them completely. Additionally, check labels for any other ingredients to avoid common allergens.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the pudding?
Certainly! If you prefer a sweeter pudding, you can add an extra Medjool date or a teaspoon of maple syrup, depending on your taste. Conversely, if you enjoy a less sweet flavor, you can adjust the amount of apple butter used in the recipe. The more the merrier in flavor!