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When I’m craving a creamy treat that doesn’t weigh me down, I whip up peanut butter banana chia pudding. It’s sweet like dessert, but it keeps me going—plus, you just need a handful of kitchen staples. You end up with creamy bananas, nutty peanut butter, and lots of fun chia seed bits. This is my go-to when I need something I can prep ahead and grab straight from the fridge. It’s perfect for busy mornings or even a snack on the drive.
The very first time I made this, my family snuck spoonfuls right from the fridge. They didn’t even wait for it to set all the way! Now I always double up so no one misses out when that late night craving hits.
Yummy Ingredients
- Chopped peanuts or granola: Use these on top for a tasty crunch. Try fresh peanuts or your favorite granola mix.
- Just a dash of salt: Makes everything taste even better, but you can skip if you’re watching the salt.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth. Go with pure vanilla if you can for the best smell and taste.
- Maple syrup or honey: Gives a little bump of sweetness—totally optional. Choose pure stuff or local honey if you want.
- Unsweetened almond milk: Keeps it light and dairy-free, and lets the main flavors shine. Pick one that’s plain.
- Chia seeds: These magical little guys help it get thick and add awesome texture. Pick ones that look shiny and dark for freshness.
- Natural peanut butter: For that rich, nutty taste—unsweetened is best, just peanuts and maybe a touch of salt.
- Ripe bananas: Makes it naturally sweet and creamy. Go for bananas with lots of spots for the most flavor.
Easy Step-by-Step
- Top and Serve:
- After the pudding gets nice and thick, stir it one last time. Spoon into bowls and sprinkle on things like banana slices, peanuts, or a heap of crunchy granola.
- Chill to Set:
- Move your mix into jars or containers, seal tight, and pop into the fridge for at least a few hours (overnight’s even better). That gives the chia seeds time to soak it up and everything gets thick and fluffy.
- Taste Test and Adjust:
- Sneak a taste and see if it needs a bit more syrup or vanilla—add if you want till it’s just right for you.
- Pour in Milk:
- Slowly pour in your milk and keep stirring. This way, the whole mix comes together smooth.
- Add Chia Seeds:
- Dump in those chia seeds and give it a good mix, making sure none are left dry.
- Sweeten and Flavor:
- Now mix in syrup or honey (if using), vanilla, and a bit of salt. Stir gently till it all blends.
- Mix with Peanut Butter:
- Pour your peanut butter in and thoroughly stir so you get one even creamy base.
- Mash the Bananas:
- Grab a bowl and mash up those ripe bananas with a fork. Go smooth or leave a few chunks for texture.
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Adding a little vanilla along with the peanut butter? That’s my favorite part. It takes me straight back to after-school snacks with my brother—except now, I get to enjoy it in this creamy dish.
Keeping It Fresh
Stick your pudding in a lidded container and stash it in the fridge—good for up to four days. Give it a stir before you scoop some out because chia seeds like to settle at the bottom. If it ever gets too thick, just splash in a bit more milk and mix.
Swaps to Try
Not a peanut butter fan? Swap in almond or even cashew butter for a new flavor. Use oat or soy milk instead of almond if you want. Prefer a vegan sweetener? Both agave and maple syrup are perfect. Chopped nuts or even cacao nibs add great crunch too.
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Serving Ideas
I like making these in cute little glasses then piling on banana rounds, toasted peanuts, and a dash of cinnamon. Want to mix it up? Use this as a filling for crepes or layer it with fruit and yogurt for a parfait.
A Little Background
Peanut butter and banana is classic American comfort food, but tossing in chia seeds takes it somewhere new. People way back in Aztec and Mayan times ate chia seeds for energy. Now they fit right in with this nostalgic but updated treat.
FAQs About the Recipe
- → When will the chia seeds turn the mix thick?
They’ll soak up the liquid and get thick in your fridge after about 4 hours. You can also let them set overnight, which is even better.
- → Could I use another nut or seed butter here?
Sure thing! Swap in cashew, almond, or even sunflower butter—they’ll taste awesome and switch things up.
- → Is dairy milk an option for this?
Of course! Go with classic dairy, or keep it plant-based, whichever you like best.
- → What if I want this sweeter or less sweet?
Add extra ripe banana or splash in a little honey or maple syrup before chilling. That’s an easy way to up the sweetness.
- → What are some fun things to pile on top?
Lots of folks love throwing on chocolate chips, chopped nuts, banana slices, a bit of granola, or coconut for something extra.
- → Can vegans dig in, too?
Definitely! Just pick maple syrup instead of honey and use a plant-based milk so it’s totally vegan.