Overnight Quinoa Pudding Recipe
If you’re looking for a breakfast or snack that’s both nourishing and delightfully creamy, look no further than this Overnight Quinoa Pudding. This wholesome dish blends the nutty goodness of quinoa with the subtle sweetness of honey or maple syrup, all soaked overnight to create a luscious, spoon-worthy treat. Its ease of preparation and vibrant color from fresh berries make it a perfect, feel-good way to start your day or recharge anytime you need a wholesome boost.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet come together to create a layered mix of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. Each plays an essential role, whether it’s the protein-packed quinoa, the gel-forming chia seeds, or the natural sweetness and crunch from the toppings.
- Cooked Quinoa (120 g): Provides a fluffy, nutty base rich in protein and fiber.
- Chia Seeds (0.5 tbsp): Add thickness and a gentle crunch, while boosting omega-3s.
- Plant-Based Milk (85 mL): Use coconut or oat milk for creaminess and subtle flavor.
- Honey or Maple Syrup (1 tsp): Natural sweetener that balances the earthiness of quinoa.
- Desiccated Coconut (1 tsp, optional): Offers a light tropical note and texture contrast.
- Blackberries or Blueberries (80 g): Bring freshness, color, and antioxidants.
- Roasted Almonds (15 g): Add satisfying crunch and a toasty flavor.
How to Make Overnight Quinoa Pudding
Step 1: Cook and Cool Your Quinoa
Start with good-quality dry quinoa if you don’t have cooked quinoa on hand. Use about 35 grams of dry quinoa with 100 milliliters of water. Cook it gently for around 20 minutes following your package instructions until it’s fluffy and the water is absorbed. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely to prevent heating up the pudding mixture.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Jar
In a sealable jar or container, mix the cooled quinoa with chia seeds, your choice of plant-based milk, honey or maple syrup, and optional desiccated coconut. Stir everything together really well so the chia seeds start to soak up the liquid evenly and the flavors meld nicely.
Step 3: Let It Set Overnight
Seal your jar and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but ideally overnight. This resting time allows the chia seeds and quinoa to absorb the liquid and swell into that delightful jelly-like, creamy consistency that makes Overnight Quinoa Pudding so irresistible.
Step 4: Add Fresh Berries and Crunch
Once the pudding has set, it’s time to elevate it with a generous topping of fresh or frozen blackberries or blueberries plus chopped roasted almonds. These not only add a pleasant tartness and texture, but also make your pudding feel extra special and colorful.
How to Serve Overnight Quinoa Pudding
Garnishes
Fresh berries are a natural favorite, adding a burst of juiciness and vibrant color. Roasted nuts give a toasty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the pudding’s creaminess. You can also sprinkle on a little cinnamon or drizzle extra honey if you prefer a hint of spice or sweetness.
Side Dishes
This pudding shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit salad for a vitamin boost or a small glass of freshly squeezed orange juice to brighten the meal. If you want something more substantial, a slice of whole-grain toast with nut butter is a lovely complement.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Overnight Quinoa Pudding in clear glass jars or bowls so the layers of creamy quinoa, shiny berries, and crunchy almonds can be admired. For a fun twist, try layering the pudding with yogurt and fruit compote for parfait-style delights. Adding edible flowers or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes makes for an Instagram-worthy breakfast treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Overnight Quinoa Pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pudding will continue to thicken, so you might want to stir in a splash of plant-based milk before enjoying it again to restore that silky texture.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t the best option because the texture can change once thawed—the chia seeds may become gelatinous and less pleasant. It’s best to make fresh batches or just store in the fridge if you want to prepare ahead.
Reheating
This pudding is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. However, if you prefer it warm, gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat with a little extra milk, stirring often until warmed through but not boiling to keep the delicate texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
While quinoa offers a unique texture and protein profile, you can experiment with cooked millet or amaranth for a similar pudding-like effect, but keep in mind the cooking time and liquid ratios may vary.
Is Overnight Quinoa Pudding suitable for weight loss diets?
Absolutely! It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats which help keep you full and satisfied, making it a great choice for mindful eating and weight management.
Can I use dairy milk instead of plant-based milk?
Yes, dairy milk can be used if you aren’t avoiding dairy. It adds creaminess, but plant-based milks like coconut or oat often enhance the flavor and texture in a lovely way.
How important is the soaking time?
Soaking is key for developing the pudding’s creamy texture as the chia seeds swell and the quinoa absorbs liquid. Overnight soaking is ideal, but a minimum of 30 minutes can work in a pinch.
Can I add protein powder to this pudding?
Definitely! Stir in your favorite protein powder before soaking to give your Overnight Quinoa Pudding an extra boost, especially great after workouts or as a filling snack.
Final Thoughts
Making Overnight Quinoa Pudding is like gifting yourself a nourishing hug first thing in the morning. Its effortless preparation combined with a beautiful balance of flavors and textures makes it a personal favorite I love to share with friends. Try it yourself—you might just find your new go-to breakfast or snack that makes healthy eating feel joyful and delicious.
Print
Overnight Quinoa Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: Minimum 30 minutes soaking, ideally overnight (about 8 hours)
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A healthy and delicious Overnight Quinoa Pudding that combines the nuttiness of quinoa with chia seeds and plant-based milk, sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup. Topped with fresh berries and roasted almonds, this pudding is perfect for a nutritious breakfast or a light dessert.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 120 g Cooked Quinoa
- 0.5 tbsp Chia Seeds
- 85 mL Plant-Based Milk (Coconut or Oat)
- 1 tsp Honey or Maple Syrup
- 1 tsp Desiccated Coconut (optional)
- 80 g Blackberries or Blueberries
- 15 g Roasted Almonds
For Cooking Quinoa (if using dry)
- 35 g Dry Quinoa (1.2 oz)
- 100 mL Water (3.5 fl oz)
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: If you don’t have cooked quinoa ready, rinse 35 g of dry quinoa thoroughly. Cook it in 100 mL of water for about 20 minutes or until the grains are tender and water is absorbed. Let it cool completely.
- Mix Ingredients: In a sealable jar or container, combine 120 g of cooked and cooled quinoa with 0.5 tbsp chia seeds, 85 mL plant-based milk, 1 tsp honey or maple syrup, and 1 tsp optional desiccated coconut. Stir thoroughly to mix all the ingredients well.
- Soak: Seal the container and let the mixture soak in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably one hour, or overnight. This resting period allows the chia seeds and quinoa to absorb the liquid and form a creamy, jelly-like pudding texture.
- Add Toppings: Once ready, remove from the fridge and top the pudding with 80 g fresh or frozen blackberries or blueberries, and 15 g chopped roasted almonds for added crunch and flavor.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, use oat milk as the plant-based milk choice.
- You can substitute berries with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup to taste.
- Desiccated coconut is optional but adds a nice tropical flavor and texture.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (if cooking quinoa)
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Soaking and assembling
- Cuisine: Healthy, Plant-Based
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 300 g)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: overnight quinoa pudding, healthy breakfast, chia seed pudding, plant-based pudding, vegan breakfast, gluten free dessert
