Strawberry Cheesecake Chia Pudding (Printable Version)
Creamy layers of fresh strawberries, tangy cheesecake filling, and protein-rich chia seeds create this wholesome make-ahead treat.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chia Pudding Base
01 - 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
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
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
15 - Fresh mint leaves
# How to Make It:
01 - Whisk together almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt in a medium bowl until well combined. Let stand for 5 minutes, then whisk again thoroughly to break up any clumps. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until the mixture achieves a thick, pudding-like consistency.
02 - Beat the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and lemon zest in a separate bowl until completely smooth and creamy. Set aside at room temperature until ready to assemble.
03 - Combine the diced strawberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Mash lightly with a fork to release some juices while maintaining chunks of fruit for texture.
04 - Layer the chilled chia pudding, cheesecake mixture, and strawberry compote in serving glasses or jars. Repeat the layers as desired, finishing with a decorative top layer.
05 - Top each serving with sliced fresh strawberries, crushed graham crackers, and mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately while chilled.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Tastes like indulgent cheesecake but fuels you like a wholesome breakfast
- Meal prep friendly breakfast that actually makes you excited to wake up
02 -
- Room temperature cream cheese is absolutely crucial for a smooth cheesecake layer
- Letting the chia pudding sit overnight improves both texture and flavor development
03 -
- Use an electric mixer for the cheesecake layer to ensure zero lumps
- Taste your strawberry compote and adjust sweetness based on berry natural sweetness