Creamy Banana Chia Pudding – Easy Breakfast Recipe

This Banana Cream Pie Chia Pudding brings the nostalgic flavor of a classic banana cream pie into a nutritious, make-ahead breakfast or wholesome dessert. Creamy, naturally sweet, and layered with bananas and crushed graham crackers, this pudding is rich in fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein—without the refined sugar or baking required.

It’s the perfect guilt-free way to enjoy dessert for breakfast, with flavors that mimic the iconic pie: ripe banana, vanilla cream, and a soft cookie-like crunch from your favorite toppings.

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What Is Banana Cream Pie Chia Pudding?

Banana Cream Pie Chia Pudding is a layered parfait-style dish that transforms banana, chia seeds, and milk into a creamy pudding-like base, layered with bananas, granola or crushed graham crackers, and optionally topped with coconut whipped cream or Greek yogurt.

It’s:

• A no-cook, easy prep recipe

• Vegan and gluten-free friendly

• A great meal prep breakfast or snack

• Loaded with fiber, Omega-3s, and potassium

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Ingredients Overview

Each component contributes to the flavor, texture, and nutrition of this satisfying treat.

Chia Seeds

These tiny seeds absorb liquid to form a pudding texture.

• Use whole chia seeds, not ground

• Rich in fiber, Omega-3s, and plant-based protein

• Helps you stay full longer

Milk

The liquid base that hydrates the chia seeds.

• Unsweetened almond milk is popular

• Other great options: oat milk, coconut milk, soy milk, or dairy milk

• Use full-fat coconut milk for extra creaminess

Banana

The flavor star of the show.

• Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and banana pie flavor

• Mashed banana goes in the pudding; sliced banana is layered for texture

Vanilla Extract

Adds that essential cream pie flavor.

• Use pure vanilla extract for a warm, bakery-like note

• Optional: a drop of almond extract for extra richness

Sweetener (Optional)

Depending on your taste and ripeness of bananas:

• Maple syrup or honey (1–2 teaspoons)

• Medjool date purée or mashed banana for no added sugar

• Stevia or monk fruit for low-carb diets

Crushed Graham Crackers or Granola

To mimic the crust of a banana cream pie.

• Use graham crackers, vanilla cookies, or low-sugar granola

• Add between layers or sprinkle on top before serving

Yogurt or Whipped Cream (Optional)

For layering or topping:

• Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt adds protein

• Coconut whipped cream for a dessert-like finish

• Unsweetened options keep it lighter

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Chia Pudding Base

In a mixing bowl or jar, combine:

• 3 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 cup milk of choice

• 1/2 large ripe banana, mashed

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• Optional: 1–2 tsp maple syrup or honey

Whisk well to combine. Let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping.

Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight, until thick and pudding-like.

Step 2: Prepare Layering Ingredients

Just before serving:

• Slice the remaining 1/2 banana

• Crush 1 graham cracker (or use 2–3 tbsp granola)

• Optional: prepare 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or whipped topping

Step 3: Assemble the Pudding

Layer the ingredients in a glass, jar, or bowl:

1. Spoon a layer of chia pudding

2. Add sliced bananas

3. Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or granola

4. Repeat layers as desired

5. Top with yogurt or whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of banana and crumbs

Step 4: Serve or Store

• Serve immediately for crunch

• Or store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days (note: toppings may soften)

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Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Tips for Perfect Chia Pudding

• Stir chia seeds well at the 5-minute mark to prevent clumps

• Use a 1:4 ratio of chia seeds to milk for thick pudding

• For smoother texture, blend the mixture before chilling

Flavor Variations

• Banana Peanut Butter Pie: Add a spoonful of natural peanut butter to the chia base

• Chocolate Banana Cream: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder or chocolate protein powder

• Tropical Banana Cream: Use coconut milk and top with pineapple or toasted coconut

• Protein Boost: Stir in 1 scoop vanilla protein powder + extra milk to adjust consistency

Substitutions

• No banana? Use mashed mango or pumpkin puree

• No chia seeds? Use ground flax (texture will differ) or make an oat-based pudding

• Low-carb? Skip banana, use banana extract + keto-friendly sweetener

• Dairy-free? Use plant-based milk and yogurt

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This pudding works great for:

• Make-ahead breakfasts

• Afternoon snacks

• Post-workout recovery

• Light desserts with a healthy twist

• Meal prep—store in individual jars

Pair with:

• A warm latte or matcha

• Boiled eggs or a smoothie for a full breakfast

• Fruit salad or toast on the side

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This pudding is:

• High in fiber from chia seeds and banana

• Rich in potassium, magnesium, and healthy fats

• Can be vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free

Estimated per serving (with almond milk, banana, and no added sweetener):

• Calories: 250–300

• Protein: 6–8g

• Fat: 11–13g

• Carbs: 30–35g

• Fiber: 9–11g

• Sugar: 10–14g (from banana and toppings)

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this without banana?

Yes. Substitute banana with mango puree, mashed pumpkin, or use banana extract and a natural sweetener to mimic the flavor.

2. How long does chia pudding last?

Up to 4–5 days in the fridge. Store in airtight containers and add fresh toppings just before eating.

3. Why is my chia pudding runny?

You may need to add more chia seeds or chill longer. A 3:1 or 4:1 liquid-to-seed ratio works best. Also, give it a good stir after 5 minutes.

4. Can I blend the pudding?

Yes! Blend the chia mixture for a smooth, mousse-like texture. Then chill again for 1–2 hours until thick.

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely. Kids love the sweet banana flavor and creamy texture—just layer it in fun jars or cups for a dessert feel.

6. What’s the best milk for creamy chia pudding?

Full-fat coconut milk is creamiest, but almond, oat, or soy milk also work well. Use unsweetened to control flavor.

7. Can I add protein powder?

Yes. Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder and adjust the milk slightly to keep it creamy. Blend for best texture.

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