Strawberry Cheesecake Chia Pudding (Print Version)
Creamy layers of chia pudding, cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries make this wholesome treat ideal for any time of day.
# What You Need:
→ Chia Pudding Base
01 - 2 cups unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
02 - 1/2 cup chia seeds
03 - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
04 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
05 - 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
→ Cheesecake Layer
06 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
07 - 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, plain or vanilla
08 - 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
09 - 1/2 tsp lemon zest
→ Strawberry Layer
10 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
11 - 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
12 - 1 tsp lemon juice
→ Garnish
13 - Sliced strawberries
14 - Crushed graham crackers, gluten-free if needed
15 - Fresh mint leaves
# How to Prepare:
01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened.
02 - In another bowl, beat cream cheese, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
03 - Combine strawberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Mash lightly with a fork to release juices, but leave some texture.
04 - Layer the chia pudding, cheesecake mixture, and strawberry compote in glasses or jars. Repeat layers as desired.
05 - Garnish with sliced strawberries, crushed graham crackers, and fresh mint if using. Serve chilled.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The cheesecake flavor is surprisingly authentic without any of the baking drama
- It satisfies that after dinner sweet spot while still being wholesome enough for breakfast
02 -
- The chia pudding really does need those 4 hours minimum, rushing it results in a weird gelatinous situation
- Room temperature cream cheese will save you so much frustration when making the cheesecake layer
03 -
- If your chia pudding is too thick after chilling, a splash of milk brings it back to life
- Adding a drop of almond extract to the cheesecake layer makes it taste even more like the real thing