Pumpkin Chia Pudding: Easy Creamy Fall Recipe
Creamy Pumpkin Chia Pudding made with pumpkin puree, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla, and warm pumpkin pie spices. This easy make-ahead fall breakfast is perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or a cozy seasonal dessert.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Resting Time 4 hours hrs
Total Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
Pumpkin Chia Pudding
- 1 cup pumpkin puree – Use plain pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling for the best flavor and texture.
- 2 cups milk – Dairy milk or your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk works well.
- 6 tablespoons chia seeds – These create the thick creamy pudding texture as they absorb the liquid.
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup – Adds gentle sweetness and pairs beautifully with pumpkin and warm spices.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the pumpkin flavor.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – Brings classic cinnamon ginger, and nutmeg notes to the pudding.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds extra cozy cinnamon flavor.
- 1 pinch salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the other ingredients.
Optional Toppings
- Chopped pecans – Add a buttery crunch and delicious nutty flavor.
- Pumpkin seeds – Give the pudding a seasonal finishing touch.
- Granola – Adds texture and makes the pudding more satisfying.
- Whipped cream – Creates a creamy dessert-like finish.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds a fragrant final sprinkle.
Combine the Pumpkin Mixture: Add the pumpkin puree, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt to a medium mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Add the Chia Seeds: Add the chia seeds to the pumpkin mixture. Stir thoroughly until the seeds are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Stir Thoroughly: Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes, then stir it again. This extra stir helps prevent the chia seeds from clumping together and creates a smoother, more consistent pudding.
Refrigerate: Divide the mixture between individual jars or airtight containers. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the chia seeds have absorbed the liquid and the pudding is thick and creamy.
Stir and Adjust: Once chilled, stir the pudding well. If it is thicker than you prefer, add a small splash of milk and stir until you reach your desired consistency.
Add Your Favorite Toppings: Spoon the chilled pudding into serving jars or bowls. Top with chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, granola, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Serve immediately and enjoy.
- Use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- For the creamiest texture, refrigerate the pudding overnight.
- Stir the pudding once shortly after mixing to prevent chia seeds from clumping.
- If the pudding becomes too thick, loosen it with a small splash of milk.
- For a richer dessert-style version, top with whipped cream and toasted pecans.
- For meal prep, divide the pudding into individual jars before refrigerating.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
- The pudding is best served cold and does not require reheating.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Fiber: 9 g
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 85 mg
These are estimates and will vary depending on the milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and toppings used.