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This kefir chia pudding is a simple high fiber and probiotic-rich breakfast made with just 4 ingredients. It’s perfect when you need something quick and ready to grab from the fridge. The kefir makes it extra creamy while adding natural probiotics to support gut health.
On most mornings I don’t have a lot of time to make a big breakfast. I need something quick that I feel good about eating. That’s why make-ahead healthy breakfasts are always my go-to, especially during the week.
I love stocking my fridge with chia seed pudding and overnight oats because it makes busy days feel more manageable. If you love prep ahead breakfast recipes, you’ll also love my Banana Bread Overnight Oats and “Just Crack an Egg” Jars.
Why You’ll Love Kefir Chia Pudding
I love using kefir in this version of chia seed pudding because it makes the pudding extra creamy while adding probiotic benefits. It turns a simple prep-ahead recipe into something great to keep on hand for busy days.
This is what makes it so good:
- 4 simple ingredients: No complicated steps or hard to find ingredients.
- Probiotics: Kefir is naturally packed with probiotics for gut health benefits.
- Protein and fiber: The combination of ingredients helps keep you full. One serving packs 8 grams of fiber and 10 grams of protein!
- Perfect for meal prep: It takes just minutes to prep and sets overnight in the fridge.
- Easy to customize: Add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make it your own.
Ingredients You Need
For full recipe instructions and complete list of ingredients, scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Kefir: Use plain or flavored cow’s milk kefir. Plain kefir gives you control over the sweetness, so you can easily adjust the honey. If using flavored kefir, you can adjust the honey to taste. You can also use coconut milk kefir for dairy free.
- Chia seeds: Use whole black chia seeds for the best consistency. Chia seeds are an excellent source of healthy fats and fiber!
- Pure vanilla extract: You’ll just need a touch to add warm vanilla flavor.
- Honey: Maple syrup, agave nectar or sugar free alternatives can be swapped as well. You can even omit the honey completely for less sugar.
Variations
- Extra protein. Mix in ½ scoop of vanilla protein powder and an extra splash of kefir to thin it out slightly for extra protein.
- Extra creamy. Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for an even thicker, creamier texture.
- Add mix-ins or toppings. Swirl in peanut butter and some bananas, or add some chopped apples and a pinch of cinnamon. For chocolate pudding, you can stir in a few teaspoons of cocoa powder. I also love stirring in some mashed raspberries or blueberries before chilling. Or simply top with fresh fruit, dried fruit, nuts, or granola.
- Blended. If you don’t love the texture of whole chia seeds, blend the pudding for 1 minute before refrigerating. This results in a much smoother texture but keeps the pudding consistency.
How to Make Kefir Chia Pudding
It’s so easy to make kefir chia pudding. You’ll just need a jar that can seal and the ingredients above!
- Add the kefir, chia seeds, vanilla, and honey to a small jar.
- Stir everything together until fully combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. If the chia seeds are not evenly distributed after an hour of sitting, give it a second stir.
- Top with fresh berries or your favorite topping.
Jamie’s Tips
Recipe Tips
- Stir twice for the best texture. After mixing the chia seeds, let it sit for 1 hour, then stir again to break up any clumps and evenly distribute the chia seeds.
- Different kefirs vary in thickness. Some brands are thinner than others. If your kefir is very thin, you may need slightly more chia seeds.
- Let it rest. Don’t rush the process. Chia pudding needs time to fully set. Let it sit for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Adjust thickness as needed. If the pudding is too thick after chilling, stir in a splash of kefir to loosen it. If it’s too thin, you can add a little more chia seeds and let it sit for at least 30 more minutes.
- Stir and taste before serving. You can top with a drizzle of honey for additional sweetness if needed.
Storage Instructions
Store the kefir chia pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir and add toppings before serving for the best texture.
I love using small glass prep bowls for chia seed pudding. A mason jar also works great.
Do not freeze, as the texture will change once thawed.
More Chia Pudding Recipes
If you’ve made and loved these Kefir Chia Pudding or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟 star rating and comments below!
Kefir Chia Pudding
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup plain or flavored kefir
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon honey, plus more to taste
- Fresh berries, for serving
Instructions
- In a small jar, mix kefir, chia seeds, vanilla, and honey until fully combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. If the chia seeds are not evenly distributed after about an hour of setting, give them a quick stir.
- Top with fresh berries.
Notes
- Texture: The pudding will be thick and spoonable. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of kefir or milk. If too thin, add some more chia seeds and chill for another 30 to 60 minutes.
- Other topping ideas: Fresh kiwi, mango, bananas, pomegranate seeds, granola, nuts, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes, dried cacao nibs, chocolate chips, peanut butter, or almond butter.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an estimate.
Food photography by Marie-Catherine Dubé.
