Apple Crumble Chia Pudding – Cozy Dessert Meets Healthy Breakfast
Apple crumble chia pudding is the perfect blend of comfort and nourishment—the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but still fits beautifully into a balanced lifestyle. It takes everything we love about warm apple crumble—soft cinnamon apples, buttery oat topping, and cozy flavors—and layers it into a creamy chia pudding base that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even a light dessert.
This recipe is especially wonderful during cooler months when apples are at their best and cinnamon-scented kitchens feel extra inviting. The chia pudding base is creamy, lightly sweetened, and packed with fiber, while the apple layer brings natural sweetness and warmth. Topping it all off is a simple oat crumble that adds just the right amount of texture and nostalgic “dessert” vibes.
One of the best parts of apple crumble chia pudding is how practical it is. It’s ideal for meal prep, stores beautifully in the fridge, and can be enjoyed cold or slightly warmed. Whether you’re easing into a busy morning or craving something cozy after dinner, this recipe delivers comfort without compromise.
Ingredients:
For the Chia Pudding:
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Cinnamon Apples:
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Crumble Topping:
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
- In a bowl or jar, whisk together chia seeds, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight, until thick and pudding-like.
- While the chia pudding sets, prepare the apples. Add diced apples, butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon to a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
- Toast the crumble mixture in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.
- To assemble, spoon chia pudding into jars or bowls.
- Add a layer of warm or cooled cinnamon apples.
- Sprinkle crumble topping over the apples.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix chia seeds with milk, sweetener, and vanilla; refrigerate until thick.
- Cook apples with butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon until soft.
- Toast oats with brown sugar and butter until golden.
- Layer chia pudding, apples, and crumble; serve or chill.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Stir chia pudding twice early on for the creamiest texture.
- Use sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for best flavor.
- Let apples cool slightly before layering for cleaner presentation.
- Double the crumble and store extra for yogurt or oatmeal.
Variations
- Make it vegan with plant-based milk and coconut oil.
- Add a spoon of Greek yogurt for extra protein.
- Stir nut butter into the chia base for richness.
- Use pears instead of apples for a seasonal twist.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy apple crumble chia pudding as a make-ahead breakfast, afternoon snack, or healthy dessert. It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a warm latte.
Storage Information
Store assembled pudding jars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep crumble topping separate for best texture.
FAQ
- Can I eat this warm? Yes—warm the apples slightly and enjoy the pudding at room temperature.
- Is this very sweet? No, it’s lightly sweet and easy to adjust.
- Can I skip the crumble? Absolutely—it’s optional but adds great texture.
History / Fun Facts
Chia seeds were once a staple food of the Aztecs, valued for their energy-boosting properties. Modern chia pudding recipes blend ancient nutrition with comforting flavors like apple crumble for the best of both worlds.
