Introduction
If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious snack or breakfast option, Apple Crumble Chia Pudding from Epicurean Nest is an excellent choice. This recipe combines the creaminess of chia pudding with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while keeping it healthy.
Ingredients
For the Chia Pudding:
– 4 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened soy milk (or other plant-based milk)
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Apple Crumble Topping:
– 1 medium apple, diced
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon maple syrup
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
– Pinch of salt
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
2 hours 25 minutes (includes refrigeration time for chia pudding)
Yield
Serves 2-3
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chia Pudding Base:
– In a medium-sized jar or bowl, combine the chia seeds, soy milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
– Stir well and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
– Stir again to prevent clumping, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Cook the Apples:
– In a small non-stick skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
– Add the diced apple, cinnamon, and maple syrup.
– Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Prepare the Oat Crumble:
– Add the rolled oats and sunflower seeds directly into the pan with the cooked apples.
– Stir everything together and toast the oats gently for 2–3 minutes.
4. Assemble the Pudding:
– Once the chia pudding has thickened to a pudding-like consistency, give it a final stir and spoon it into a serving jar or bowl.
– Top generously with the warm apple crumble mixture.
– Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for later.
This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is a delightful and satisfying dish that can easily become a staple in your diet. Enjoy the combination of flavors and the health benefits that come with it!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chia Pudding Base:
In a medium-sized jar or bowl, combine the chia seeds, soy milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir well and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Stir again to prevent clumping, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cook the Apples:
In a small non-stick skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced apple, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized.
Prepare the Oat Crumble:
Add the rolled oats and sunflower seeds directly into the pan with the cooked apples. Stir everything together and toast the oats gently for 2–3 minutes.
Assemble the Pudding:
Once the chia pudding has thickened to a pudding-like consistency, give it a final stir and spoon it into a serving jar or bowl. Top generously with the warm apple crumble mixture. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for later.
Notes
Chia Pudding Consistency:
Make sure to stir the chia pudding after the initial 5 minutes to prevent clumping and ensure an even texture.
Apple Selection:
Choose a sweet and firm apple variety such as Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
Storage:
The chia pudding can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish can be enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or even a healthy dessert option.
Cook techniques
Chia Pudding Preparation
Combine chia seeds with liquid ingredients and allow them to hydrate. Stirring helps to prevent clumping. Refrigerating aids in achieving the desired pudding-like consistency.
Cooking Apples
Use a non-stick skillet to evenly cook diced apples, incorporating spices and sweeteners for flavor. Cooking over medium heat allows for gradual caramelization, enhancing the taste and texture.
Preparing Oat Crumble
Toast rolled oats and seeds in the same pan as the apples to absorb flavors. This adds a crunchy texture to the dish while bringing out the nuttiness of the oats.
Assembling the Dish
Layer the chia pudding with the apple crumble, allowing the warm topping to contrast with the cold, creamy pudding. Serve immediately or store for later enjoyment.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of milk for the chia pudding?
Yes, any plant-based milk can be substituted based on your preference, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk.
How long can I store the chia pudding in the refrigerator?
The chia pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a convenient make-ahead option.
What other fruits can I use in the crumble topping?
You can use other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries to create different flavor combinations in the crumble topping.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, the recipe is already vegan, as it uses plant-based milk and contains no animal products.
Conclusion
This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, making it an ideal choice for a healthy breakfast or snack. The creamy chia pudding base pairs beautifully with the warm, spiced apples and crunchy oat crumble, providing both nutrition and comfort in every bite. Whether served immediately or stored for later, this recipe is sure to satisfy cravings while keeping you energized throughout the day.
Chia Pudding Variations
Try adding different fruits like berries, bananas, or mangoes layered in with the chia pudding for a refreshing twist.
Nut Butters Addition
Incorporate almond or peanut butter into the chia pudding for extra creaminess and a protein boost.
Coconut Chia Delight
Use coconut milk instead of soy milk and top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flavor.
Chocolate Chia Pudding
Mix in cocoa powder and a bit of sweetener for a rich chocolate version that pairs well with any fruit topping.
Mixed Nut Topping
Replace sunflower seeds with a mix of your favorite nuts for added crunch and flavor dynamics.
Spicy Apple Crumble
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the apple crumble for a more complex flavor profile that warms the palate.
