Key Lime Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
Introduction
Key lime chia seed pudding is a bright and creamy no-cook breakfast that combines the tangy zest of key limes with the nutritious power of chia seeds and coconut milk. This make-ahead treat sets overnight to create a smooth texture perfect for busy mornings or a refreshing snack.

Ingredients
- 3 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/4 tsp matcha powder (culinary grade for vibrant color)
- 1 pinch salt
- Juice and zest from 1/2 lime (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (grade A dark or amber for richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat for a creamier texture)
- 1/2 cup almond milk
Instructions
- Step 1: In a jar with a lid, combine the chia seeds, matcha powder, a pinch of salt, and lime zest. Choose a jar large enough to allow room for mixing.
- Step 2: Pour the almond milk, freshly squeezed lime juice, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup into the jar with the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is even and no chia seeds remain stuck to the bottom. You may need to stir several times for full incorporation.
- Step 3: Secure the lid on the jar and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken. Serve chilled, topped with fresh fruit or toasted coconut if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use white chia seeds for a cleaner look, though black chia seeds work just as well.
- Swap almond milk with coconut, oat, soy, or regular dairy milk while keeping the quantity the same.
- Replace Greek yogurt with coconut or any plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option; if using regular yogurt, reduce milk by 2 tablespoons.
- Substitute maple syrup with honey (not vegan), agave nectar, or sugar—adjust sweetness to taste.
- If key limes aren’t available, regular limes or lemons can be used, but expect a slightly different flavor.
- Matcha powder is optional and used for color; omit or replace with natural green food coloring if preferred.
- To prevent clumps, stir the mixture a few times within the first 10 minutes before refrigerating.
Storage
Store the pudding in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Flavors will deepen after a day or two, making it perfect for meal prep. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes or thin with a splash of milk if it becomes too thick.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I substitute chia seeds with another ingredient?
Chia seeds are essential for the pudding’s texture and cannot be substituted. They absorb liquid and create the characteristic thick pudding consistency.
How do I get the best flavor from the lime?
Zest the lime before juicing and avoid the white pith beneath the skin, which can add bitterness. Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest citrus flavor.
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Key Lime Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Tasty Key Lime Chia Seed Pudding is a refreshing, no-cook breakfast or snack that combines the bright, citrusy tang of key limes with creamy coconut milk, protein-rich Greek yogurt, and omega-3 packed chia seeds. Set overnight for a smooth, pudding-like texture, it’s topped with fresh fruit and toasted coconut to deliver a tropical flavor perfect for busy mornings or warm days.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/4 tsp matcha powder (culinary grade for vibrant color)
- 1 pinch salt
- Zest from 1/2 lime (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- Juice from 1/2 lime (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat for a creamier texture)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (grade A dark or amber for richer flavor)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large jar with a lid, add chia seeds, matcha powder, a pinch of salt, and the lime zest. Ensure the jar has enough room for thorough mixing to prevent clumping.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Mix Thoroughly: Pour in the almond milk, freshly squeezed lime juice, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup into the jar with the dry ingredients. Stir well multiple times until the mixture is evenly combined and no chia seeds remain stuck to the bottom.
- Refrigerate and Serve: Seal the jar with the lid and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken. Before serving, stir briefly; serve chilled or slightly warmed, optionally topped with fresh fruits or toasted coconut.
Notes
- Maintain a 3:1 ratio of liquid (milk and yogurt) to chia seeds for perfect pudding consistency.
- Whisk the mixture a couple of times in the first 10 minutes to avoid clumping of chia seeds.
- Allow pudding to chill overnight for optimal texture and flavor.
- Use either black or white chia seeds depending on presentation preference; both work equally well.
- Substitute almond milk with coconut, oat, soy, or dairy milk if preferred, keeping quantity the same.
- Replace Greek yogurt with coconut or plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free version, reducing milk by 2 tbsp if using regular yogurt.
- Maple syrup can be swapped with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute to suit dietary needs.
- Lime zest is crucial for bright flavor; avoid bitter white pith when zesting.
- If pudding thickens too much after refrigeration, thin with a splash of almond milk before serving.
- Store pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; flavor improves after a day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chia seed pudding, key lime dessert, healthy breakfast, make-ahead breakfast, gluten free pudding, no-cook pudding, nutritious snack, tropical breakfast

