I hold a MS in Nutrition and Integrative Health, this creamy banana chocolate chip chia pudding has been on repeat in my kitchen lately. It’s low effort, nutrient-dense, and checks all the functional nutrition boxes without feeling like “health food.” Think banana bread vibes, but chilled and spoonable.
This is the kind of recipe that makes functional eating feel fun and easy. You’re getting fiber + fat + protein + natural carbs, which keeps your blood sugar happy and your energy stable. And bonus: this is a great make-ahead option for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up that won’t leave you crashing.
It’s also super customizable depending on your mood. Add almond butter, a handful of dark chocolate chips, or just a sprinkle of cinnamon. Whatever your vibe, this pudding has your back.
Note: If you’re having this for breakfast, pair this with a few boiled eggs or a scoop of protein powder in your morning coffee if you’re aiming for 20–30g protein to keep your metabolism, satiety, and hormones on point.
Functional Nutrition Breakdown
- Chia seeds = plant-based omega-3s (ALA), fiber, and minerals
- Bananas = prebiotic fuel for beneficial gut bacteria + potassium
- Yogurt = probiotics for gut diversity
- Ceylon cinnamon + vanilla = blood sugar balance + warm, cozy flavor
- Optional maple syrup = honestly, the bananas do a great job on their own, but add maple or honey if you want a bit more sweetness
CREAMY BANANA CHOCOLATE CHIP CHIA PUDDING
Ingredients (2 servings):
- ¾ c unsweetened almond milk
- ¾ c plain yogurt (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 ripe bananas
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional: 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
Optional toppings:
- Nut or seed butter
- Dark chocolate chips
- Banana slices
- Ground cinnamon
- Raw honey
Make it
- In a blender, combine almond milk, bananas, vanilla, cinnamon, sea salt, and maple syrup (if using). Blend until smooth.
- Pour the banana milk into a bowl and stir in the yogurt and chia seeds until evenly combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thick and pudding-like.
- When ready to eat, top with your faves: chocolate chips, almond butter, a few banana slices—whatever brings you joy.
Let’s Connect
If you try this chia pudding, tag me @myempoweredheart—I seriously love seeing your creations and how you make these recipes your own. Eating for your health should feel this good.
xx, Gabriela, MS Nutrition and Integrative Health
